World Cup

Mauricio Pochettino believes England can win the World Cup

By Ben Sully | 30 November 2022

Former Paris-Saint Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino believes that England could win the World Cup in Qatar, while also offering praise for Marcus Rashford.

Former Paris Saint-Germain boss Mauricio Pochettino has claimed that England have a great chance of winning the World Cup in Qatar.

Gareth Southgate's side will face Senegal in the last 16 after thrashing Wales 3-0 on Tuesday to top the group with seven points.

Following the comfortable win, Pochettino stated that he believes England are in contention to lift the trophy on December 18.

Speaking to Sky Sports, he said: "France or different national teams could be in trouble when they face England.

"England have the quality to be one of the teams with an opportunity to win the World Cup. I saw a very good performance against Wales, and I believe the quality is there.

"It's all about believing and performing in a way which can grant you the possibility to be there. But I really, really believe this year England can fight to try to lift the World Cup.

"[Gareth] Southgate is doing a fantastic job. He was a little bit unlucky in the final of the Euros against Italy, but he's doing a fantastic job and deserves a lot of credit."

The former Tottenham Hotspur manager went on to praise Marcus Rashford, who scored two goals in the win over Wales.

Pochettino added: "I've always liked [Rashford], I knew of his process because I was in England, but I think he's a great player.

"He just needs the confidence and for himself to believe, to put him at the top level. The quality is there for him."

England are currently preparing for their last-16 meeting with Senegal, which will take place at the Al Bayt Stadium on Sunday.