England to do it the hard way against Colombia
By no means is it wrong to suggest that England have got too much ahead of themselves in planning for a situation that they may not get into in the first place.
They have avoided a “possible” quarter-final against Brazil, but in doing so, they’ve also chosen a tough round of 16 tie against Colombia, thereby damaging the chances of progressing to the round they actually planned for. It just doesn’t make sense.
In a way, England have set themselves up for heaven by choosing to pass through hell first, and it’s obvious how wrong that can go. Not only have they taken a huge risk, but they’ve also admitted that they don’t back themselves to beat a big team like Brazil. It’s the worst message you can send as a team that aspires to win the World Cup.
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It may yet go right. England could beat Colombia and Switzerland/Sweden to make it to the semi-final, and Gareth Southgate would be proven right. However, if it doesn’t go to plan on Tuesday night, then the Three Lions return home with wins over Tunisia and Panama.