England were held to a 1-1 draw with Uruguay in an international friendly during one of their final matches before the World Cup begins this summer.
It was an encounter without rhythm and verve as England failed to click in the first half. Noni Madueke was subbed off with an unknown injury and Phil Foden avoided a season-ending knock after a collision with Ronald Araujo.
Ben White, recalled for the first time since the 2022 World Cup, was met with boos from some of the England fans upon his introduction but they quickly turned to cheers as he opened the scoring by poking home from Cole Palmer’s corner kick. However, he was a fault for giving a stoppage time penalty late in the match and Federico Valverde converted from the spot to end the game in a draw.
Harry Maguire labelled the decision to award the penalty ‘soft’ and ‘ridiculous’ in his post match interview and ITV pundits Ian Wright and Emma Hayes were left baffled by some of the decision-making.
Follow the reaction from England’s clash with Uruguay below:
England vs Uruguay LIVE
- England begin World Cup countdown with 1-1 draw against Uruguay
- Report: Thomas Tuchel’s England experiment yields few answers after disconnected performance at Wembley
- Thomas Tuchel ‘worried’ for Noni Madueke as England manager issues injury update
- Referee shows Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte two yellow cards but no red in bizarre Wembley error
- Thomas Tuchel names the four centre-backs ahead of Harry Maguire in England pecking order
- Jordan Henderson criticises England fans who ‘don’t even know why they are booing’ Ben White
Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka among eight players to leave England camp ahead of Japan game
21:04 , Miguel DelaneyEngland have confirmed that Arsenal pair Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka are among the eight players who will be dropping out of Thomas Tuchel’s squad ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Japan.
Rice and Saka will be returning to the Premier League leaders for “medical assessment”, having only joined up with the England camp on Friday as part of a group of 11 players who had been rested for the 1-1 draw with Uruguay.
More here:
Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka among eight players to leave England camp
Thomas Tuchel ‘worried’ for Noni Madueke as England manager issues injury update
19:26 , Miguel DelaneyThomas Tuchel said he is "worried" for Noni Madueke after the winger was forced off during the first half of England’s 1-1 friendly draw with Uruguay following a challenge the manager described as "on the edge".
Madueke was seen walking out of Wembley with his left knee in a brace, following a 37th-minute challenge from Rodrigo Aguirre. The 24-year-old Arsenal forward was immediately substituted after treatment. There are as yet no details as to the extent of the injury.
“I'm worried, of course, because I think he was a difference-maker today,” Tuchel said of the Arsenal winger. “He started well, he was full of energy, he was ready to go.”
Madueke injury update: Tuchel ‘worried’ for Arsenal winger after England blow
Thomas Tuchel names the four centre-backs ahead of Harry Maguire in England pecking order
19:24 , Jonathan VealEngland boss Thomas Tuchel has appeared to deliver a big blow to Harry Maguire’s World Cup 2026 chances by insisting he is still at least the fifth-choice centre-back.
Maguire looked to have strengthened his case for being on the plane to North America in the summer as he delivered a commanding performance on his return to the national team setup in Friday’s 1-1 friendly draw with Uruguay.
It was his first appearance under Tuchel and he played the second half as captain in a polished display that has characterised his England career.
The German acknowledged the Manchester United defender’s strengths, but said that he remains behind Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, John Stones and the injured Trevoh Chalobah in the pecking order.
Tuchel names the four centre-backs ahead of Maguire in England pecking order
England’s fringe players flopped on audition night. Now ruthless Thomas Tuchel will wield his World Cup axe
14:48 , Lawrence OstlereThis was the night when the final places on the plane were up for grabs - but there were more questions than answers at the end of an insipid 1-1 draw
England’s fringe cast flop on audition night. Now Thomas Tuchel will wield the axe
Thomas Tuchel disappointed over Wembley booing for Ben White
13:50 , Jamie Braidwood“I heard that he was booed. I didn’t hear it actually on the field because I was involved in the changes and instructions, so I didn’t hear it so I think then it cannot be the majority.
“There were some boos and some mixed reception for him, which I am disappointed about because of course we protect our players and he was excellent in camp and he deserved to come on.
“He deserved also to start and got us almost the winner, but I also understood that it happened to other players before here (at Wembley).
“He needs to take it on the chin. We will always protect him and hopefully we can put it behind (us) because he is ready to write some new chapters and we are ready to give him the chance, so hopefully everyone can move on and accept it.”
Jordan Henderson criticises England fans who ‘don’t even know why they are booing’ Ben White
13:48 , Jonathan VealEngland midfielder Jordan Henderson has vowed to support Ben White after the Arsenal defender was booed by fans during the friendly draw with Uruguay.
White had the rare ignominy of being booed by the Wembley crowd after putting England 1-0 up. The 28-year-old was making his first England appearance since he walked out of the 2022 World Cup squad due to “personal reasons” and then made himself unavailable for selection for the remainder of Sir Gareth Southgate’s reign.
Henderson knows how it feels to receive the ire of the Wembley crowd, after he was booed following his ill-fated move to Saudi Arabia. And the midfielder said: “I have been through it myself, but that is part and parcel of being an England player.
“Some of the fans probably don’t even know why they are booing, they listen to what is being said in the media, and a lot of the time what the media says isn’t true.”
Henderson criticises England fans who ‘don’t even know why they are booing’ Ben White
Thomas Tuchel’s England experiment yields few answers after disconnected performance at Wembley
08:00 , Miguel DelaneyBy the time the World Cup really gets going, and Thomas Tuchel’s senior players maybe have that extra bit of energy from this week off, England might well feel the benefit of this game.
It’s hard to make a substantial list of who else did, though.
Even Ben White, who marked his return with a poached goal, gave away the penalty from which Uruguay's Federico Valverde equalised for a 1-1 draw.
Thomas Tuchel’s experiment yields few answers after disconnected performance
Referee shows Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte two yellow cards but no red in bizarre Wembley error
07:00 , Lawrence OstlereUruguay’s Manuel Ugarte was shown two yellow cards but no red in a bizarre incident at Wembley as the referee failed to send off the midfielder during the 1-1 friendly draw with England.
Federico Valverde's stoppage-time penalty meant England failed to win for only the second time in Tuchel's 11 matches in charge and conceded for the first time since losing to Senegal in a friendly last June.
Referee shows Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte two yellow cards but no red in bizarre error
England’s World Cup 2026 squad: Who’s on the plane, who’s almost there and who has work to do?
06:00 , Lawrence OstlereOutside bets
James Trafford: Included in England’s March squad, but the goalkeeper’s lack of game time for Manchester City this season may see him miss out on the World Cup.
Myles Lewis-Skelly: Tuchel loves the Arsenal full-back, but he has barely featured for the Gunners this season, with Riccardo Calafiori and Piero Hincapie both preferred by Mikel Arteta – which cost him his place in November’s squad.
Trevoh Chalobah: A badly timed injury playing in the Champions League for Chelsea may scupper Chalobah’s hopes of making the World Cup.
Fikayo Tomori: The AC Milan defender is back in the squad for March, but faces stiff competition for a centre-back place.
Luke Shaw: Didn’t make the March squad, with Hall and O’Reilly preferred as left-back options.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Tuchel has been frank about his preference for James and Livramento in the pecking order at right-back, hinting at concerns about Alexander-Arnold’s defensive concentration. Time seems to have run out for the Real Madrid defender to win back his place.
Morgan Gibbs-White: Another player given minutes by Tuchel but who is set to be edged out by the sheer number of options in central roles.
James Garner: In the squad for this month’s internationals, but the Everton midfielder is unlikely to make the final 26 unless injuries strike.
Ollie Watkins: A sluggish start to the Premier League season saw Watkins left out of the squad for November’s internationals. The Aston Villa striker was decisive at Euro 2024, but has he now lost his place as Kane’s deputy?
England’s World Cup 2026 squad: Who’s on the plane, who’s almost there and who has work to do?
05:00 , Lawrence OstlereWork to do
Ben White: Back in the fold for the first time since leaving the World Cup in Qatar, Tuchel is now seriously considering White as a right-back option.
Harry Maguire: Back in the squad this month after strong form for Manchester United, but faces a fight with Burn for what will likely be the fourth and final centre-back berth in North America.
Djed Spence: Much like Livramento, Tuchel likes that Spence has experience playing both full-back roles for his club, Tottenham. But it may be that only one of the two full-backs goes to the World Cup, and Livramento has enjoyed a better season with his club.
Jarell Quansah: The Leverkusen defender made his long-awaited debut in November’s World Cup qualifiers and could take one of the fringe spots in the squad.
Kobbie Mainoo: Back in the squad after strong performances for a rejuvenated Manchester United under Michael Carrick.
Eberechi Eze: Tuchel has spoken in glowing terms about Eze as a player who offers something different, creatively, from players like Bellingham and Rogers. His ability to play wide and as a No 10 will be a useful asset in the squad, although he still faces huge competition for a spot.
Phil Foden: Foden is another in the Palmer bracket where it seems bizarre that he wouldn’t be at a major tournament for England, and yet the City midfielder has barely featured under Tuchel so far and has lost his place in Pep Guardiola’s team. He did well in the November internationals, though, where Tuchel tried him as a false nine.
Jarrod Bowen: The West Ham captain seems to be third choice on the right wing behind Saka and Madueke, but his league form is excellent and he has a chance of squeezing onto the plane. Bowen’s ability to play as No 9 could also play in his favour, if Tuchel decides not to take a back-up striker.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin: An impressive goalscoring campaign for Leeds has seen Calvert-Lewin push himself into the reckoning. He may be the most likely option to travel as Kane’s deputy.
Dominic Solanke: Is in the squad for March, but the Tottenham striker needs a strong finish to the season to be England’s back-up No 9.
England’s World Cup 2026 squad: Who’s on the plane, who’s almost there and who has work to do?
04:00 , Lawrence OstlereAlmost there
Aaron Ramsdale: Looks to have regained his place as England’s third-choice goalkeeper, but needs to maintain club form for Newcastle to secure his spot.
Reece James: Tuchel adores the Chelsea captain and there is no doubt James will be at the World Cup if he is fit, most likely as the starting right-back. But his fitness in itself is such an uncertainty that he doesn’t make our on-the-plane list, yet.
Tino Livramento: The Newcastle full-back is liked by Tuchel and his ability to play both sides adds to his appeal.
Dan Burn: Burn is a popular and well-respected squad player who adds something different with his towering physical presence. He is currently Tuchel’s fourth choice at centre-back behind Stones, Guehi and Konsa, but faces competition from Harry Maguire.
Nico O’Reilly: The Manchester City left-back was excellent in November’s World Cup qualifiers after impressing under Pep Guardiola this season, and his two-goal show in the Carabao Cup final will only help his chances of making the final squad.
Lewis Hall: The defender has been outstanding for Newcastle this season and is well-placed to make the World Cup squad.
Jordan Henderson: Henderson has been a regular inclusion by Tuchel during qualifying and it is likely he will be in the squad as the back-up to Anderson in the No 6 role, if he can maintain good form for Brentford this season.
Adam Wharton: The Crystal Palace midfielder was something of a surprise inclusion by Gareth Southgate at Euro 2024 but has since established himself as one of the best midfielders in the Premier League, with the ability to play as a deep-lying playmaker as well as in a box-to-box role. He played in November’s match against Albania as the No 6.
Morgan Rogers: Tuchel has turned to Rogers in Bellingham’s absence during qualifying, and the Villa midfielder looks poised to earn a place in the squad as an option at No 10.
Cole Palmer: It seems incredible not to list Palmer on the plane, but the sheer intensity of competition for places in the No 10 slot makes his position uncertain. Bellingham, Rogers, Foden and Eze can all play in that role, while Saka and Madueke appear likely to be first-choice options on the right flank. Palmer will most probably be at the World Cup, but Tuchel has made no guarantees and has raised concerns about his groin injury.
Noni Madueke: Madueke is Saka’s deputy at Arsenal and should fill the same role for England, having performed well in September’s thrashing of Serbia.
Marcus Rashford: Goals and assists for Barcelona have pushed Rashford’s cause and Tuchel likes him, although the manager has also had cautionary words about wasting his talent. Rashford’s versatility, able to cover both wing and striker should Kane need it, helps his selection cause.
England’s World Cup 2026 squad: Who’s on the plane, who’s almost there and who has work to do?
03:00 , Lawrence OstlereOn the plane
Jordan Pickford: The Everton keeper was Gareth Southgate’s No 1 and has maintained top spot under Thomas Tuchel, with an impressive season for his club.
Dean Henderson: The Crystal Palace goalkeeper is set to be Pickford’s back-up.
John Stones: The Manchester City defender has endured a difficult season with injury but, if he is fit, the experienced centre-back will play a role at the World Cup.
Marc Guehi: Stones’ fellow City defender is perhaps the most certain defender to start England’s first World Cup game.
Ezri Konsa: The Aston Villa centre-back has cemented his place as one of Tuchel’s most reliable options, having played more minutes under the German manager than any other defender.
Elliot Anderson: Tuchel has made clear that Anderson is the leading candidate to play in England’s holding role position.
Declan Rice: Part of Tuchel’s leadership group and will be essential to any success at the World Cup in England’s box-to-box No 8 position.
Jude Bellingham: The Real Madrid man has won back his place in the England squad, although there remains tension with the manager. Yet England need their best players firing to have any chance of winning the World Cup, and Bellingham is undoubtedly one of them.
Bukayo Saka: The 24-year-old Arsenal winger is under a little bit of pressure to refind his best form for Arsenal, but will certainly be in the squad and is the most likely starter on England’s right wing this summer.
Anthony Gordon: The Newcastle winger is in pole position to start on the left wing, and has regularly featured there for Tuchel so far. He missed November’s internationals with injury.
Harry Kane: It is easy to forget that plenty of pundits and fans wanted Kane dropped for the Euro 2024 final. He has been phenomenal ever since, and the big question now about England’s captain is whether he can translate his sensational club form at Bayern Munich into dominating a major international tournament.
Harry Maguire on Tuchel’s England phone call, Carrick’s future and his one problem with Amorim
02:00 , Lawrence OstlereHarry Maguire was stepping onto a late afternoon flight to Bournemouth with his Manchester United teammates when a WhatsApp message pinged his phone. It was the England manager, Thomas Tuchel, asking if they could talk that evening.
Butterflies fluttered. Maguire hadn’t played for England for nearly two years, since he appeared in a Nations League game against Ireland in 2024. He had never played for Tuchel and there had been very little contact from the manager since he took the job last January.
Maguire on Tuchel’s call, Carrick’s future and his problem with Amorim
Thomas Tuchel ramps up pressure on Cole Palmer with place in World Cup squad on the line
01:00 , Miguel DelaneyThomas Tuchel says the pressure is on Cole Palmer to prove himself as part of this new-look England squad, given that he has not been able to properly use him yet, but is confident the Chelsea playmaker can return to form.
The 23-year-old has had an erratic season due to a groin injury and Tuchel believes that has visibly affected his movement.
Tuchel ramps up pressure on Cole Palmer with place in World Cup squad on the line
Ben White must ‘clear the air’ with England teammates, says Thomas Tuchel
00:00 , Miguel DelaneyThomas Tuchel says that Ben White will “clear the air” with senior England players over his return, with the manager also expressing hope that fans will give him a fair chance.
The 28-year-old right-back was recalled to the international squad earlier this week, for the first time since leaving the 2022 World Cup squad in circumstances that continue to cause intrigue, amid murmurs of tension with staff.
Ben White must ‘clear the air’ with England teammates, says Thomas Tuchel
Referee shows Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte two yellow cards but no red in bizarre Wembley error
Friday 27 March 2026 23:41 , Lawrence OstlereUruguay’s Manuel Ugarte was shown two yellow cards but no red in a bizarre incident at Wembley as the referee failed to send off the midfielder during the 1-1 friendly draw with England.
Federico Valverde's stoppage-time penalty meant England failed to win for only the second time in Tuchel's 11 matches in charge and conceded for the first time since losing to Senegal in a friendly last June.
Referee shows Uruguay’s Manuel Ugarte two yellow cards but no red in bizarre error
Noni Madueke injury forces early substitution against Uruguay and concern for Arsenal
Friday 27 March 2026 23:30 , Mike JonesNoni Madueke is an injury doubt after being replaced in the first half of England’s international friendly against Uruguay.
The Arsenal winger was involved in a heavy collision with Rodrigo Aguirre on the edge of the Uruguay penalty area as he cut inside from the right and looked to shoot.
Aguirre tracked back and won the ball but his follow through clattered Madueke to the ground and he received treatment from the England medical team.
Noni Madueke injury forces early substitution against Uruguay and concern for Arsenal
Emma Hayes and Ian Wright lambast controversial decisions in England-Uruguay draw
Friday 27 March 2026 23:03 , Mike JonesEmma Hayes and Ian Wright were left bewildered by controversial refereeing decisions made during England’s 1-1 draw with Uruguay on Friday night.
The duo spoke on ITV’s coverage as pundits for the match with Hayes lamenting the ‘inconsistences’ in the decision-making from the match officials and Wright calling out the decision to award Uruguay a late penalty.
Emma Hayes and Ian Wright lambast controversial decisions in England-Uruguay draw
England's next match
Friday 27 March 2026 22:46 , Mike JonesThomas Tuchel takes charge of his next game on Tuesday next week when the Three Lions face Japan.
The bulk of the first choice XI will be available for that one and it’ll be interesting to see if any of tonight’s players make that matchday squad as well.
Tuchel on Ben White
Friday 27 March 2026 22:39 , Mike JonesThomas Tuchel was also asked about Ben White’s performance and cracked a huge smile talking about it.
"It was too good to be true when he scored the winner which in the end was not a winner,” he began.
“In the end he was a bit too greedy in his defensive actions but still I think it’s not a penalty. It would have been nice to have kept a clean sheet and take another win.”
Tuchel was also asked about the boos White received when he came on.
"I hope so [fans views might have changed after White’s performance],” Tuchel added.
“This happened before to some players here which is disappointing because it does not help anyone. I think it was mixed reactions.
“Some cheered, some booed but hopefully it’s settled.”
Tuchel summarises the game
Friday 27 March 2026 22:38 , Mike JonesMore from the England boss who was happy with the performance from his players.
He said: "To sum it up I think our goal was also a block, tough block from Wharton, but they checked it and gave it.
"Absolutely OK with the performance. We tried and tried and were the better team overall.
"We had some big chances from set-pieces. We were forced into changes. We had a lot of new players and changed a lot of new players and for all of that I am grateful for the test.
"I have to review it, I liked how we played. We knew it was a difficult opponent. Marcelo Bielsa told me months ago he would arrive with his best team. Everyone did good. I liked a lot of stuff today."
Was Ben White at fault for Uruguay's goal?
Friday 27 March 2026 22:35 , Mike JonesThomas Tuchel spoke to ITV after the match and was decisive in his assessment.
"It was not a penalty,” he said.
'A bit crazy'
Friday 27 March 2026 22:31 , Mike JonesBen White’s second half substitution appearance was ‘crazy’ in the words of Harry Maguire.
White was booed on his introduction and then scored the opening goal before giving away the penalty that led to Uruguay’s equaliser.
"A bit crazy, scoring the first goal,” Maguire admitted.
“I thought he was brilliant when he came on. I can't say anything about the defending for that one [the penalty] - if that was me in that position I'd be attempting to block the shot as well. That's what we've got to do. That's a real soft penalty.
"He's been good all week, a big smile on his face and he's brought great energy to the camp. He got his rewards tonight with the goal and I thought he was brilliant when he came on."
'You don't see tackles like that and not red cards'
Friday 27 March 2026 22:28 , Mike JonesHarry Maguire was quite forceful in his post match reaction to some of the controversies from the game.
Speaking of Ronald Araujo’s tackle that injured Phil Foden he said: "You don't see tackles like that and not get red cards. A couple of months from the World Cup and we've got referees allowing tackles like that.
“It's disappointing. We have to move on and manage the game better and come away with the victory. It was a good work out there, many positives and things to work on as well."
Thomas Tuchel’s England experiment yields few answers after disconnected performance at Wembley
Friday 27 March 2026 22:25 , Miguel Delaney at WembleyBy the time the World Cup really gets going, and Thomas Tuchel’s senior players maybe have that extra bit of energy from this week off, England might well feel the benefit of this game.
It’s hard to make a substantial list of who else did, though.
Even Ben White, who marked his return with a poached goal, gave away the penalty from which Uruguay's Federico Valverde equalised for a 1-1 draw.
Thomas Tuchel’s experiment yields few answers after disconnected performance
Thomas Tuhchel reacts to Ben White boos
Friday 27 March 2026 22:24 , Lawrence Ostlere"I hope [views change on White]. This happened before to some players here which is disappointing because I don't think it helps anyone. There was a mixed reaction."
Here's some reaction from Harry Maguire
Friday 27 March 2026 22:09 , Mike JonesThe England defender spoke to ITV following the match and wasn’t happy with the decision to award Uruguay a penalty at the end of the game.
He said: “I thought we controlled the whole game really. They didn’t create a chance. We could have been better, we know that. When we made the changes, we lost the rhythm and the gameplan but that’s what happens when you make changes on 60/70 minutes.
“We had control of the game, they didn’t really get into our box, and they give a ridiculous penalty.
“It’s soft, he’s kicked the ball over the bar and Ben just goes to try and block the shot, it’s not a tackle, it’s not malicious. I think it’s part and parcel of defending, there’s going to be contact in the box. It went against us today but we’ll move on.”
'It is hard to know who advanced their World Cup cause'
Friday 27 March 2026 21:58 , Lawrence Ostlere at WembleyIt is hard to know who has advanced their World Cup cause tonight.
“The one player in the thick of the action in this second half has been Ben White, scoring a goal and conceding a penalty.
“And you’d have to say, on balance, that that’s probably a net loss for the Arsenal defender.”
Full-time! England 1-1 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:51 , Mike Jones90+6 mins: I know this is just a friendly but some of the decisions have been wild.
Ugarte should have been sent off and the challenge on Foden was a red card offence not given as well.
The full time whistle goes with the game ending in a draw.
Thomas Tuchel’s reaction will be interesting.
GOAL! England 1-1 Uruguay (Federico Valverde, 90+4')
Friday 27 March 2026 21:49 , Mike JonesThere’s an equaliser!
Fede Valverde makes no mistakes from the penalty spot and despite Trafford diving the correct wa he beats the goalkeeper and levels the game.
England 1-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:48 , Mike Jones90+2 mins: Penalty to Uruguay!
Ben White and Federico Vinas both challenge for the ball as it is played into the box.
White arrives late and takes Vinas’ leg.
VAR get involved and the referee is called over to the monitor. He looks at the replay and points to the spot
England 1-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:44 , Mike Jones90 mins: Five minutes of added time to play at Wembley.
More goals to come?
England 1-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:44 , Mike Jones87 mins: A strange incident followed that England goal.
Manuel Ugarte, who picked up a yellow card in the first half, was shown a second one by the referee for voicing his opinion against the decision to award a goal.
He should have been shown a red card as well but avoided that and Marcelo Bielsa decided to take him off as a result.
England 1-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:40 , Mike Jones84 mins: Now that the door is open can England capitalise and score again.
Palmer has impressed since coming on and wins another corner.
He delivers it again but Uruguay handle it.
GOAL! England 1-0 Uruguay (Ben White, 81')
Friday 27 March 2026 21:36 , Mike JonesThere’s the breakthrough!
Palmer delivers the corner to the near post where the ball hits Harvey Barnes and deflects into the path of the goalkeeper.
He gets a hand to the ball and touches it to the back post where Ben White pops up to poke it home!
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:34 , Mike Jones80 mins: Nice work from Palmer to evade a challenge and drive forward.
He slips the ball to Bowen who wins a corner for the Three Lions.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:32 , Mike Jones78 mins: Uruguay are having a spell here and work the ball into the box from the right wing.
Livramento deals with it but only nods the ball to Valverde.
He swings a cross back into the middle but England clear their lines.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:30 , Mike Jones75 mins: 15 minutes to play at Wembley. Can England get the elusive goal?
It does feel as though they’ve missed the ruthlessness of Harry Kane up top and the sheer determinism of Jude Bellingham to make something happen.
Phil Foden has been spotted on the bench with ice on his leg following his injury knock earlier.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:25 , Mike Jones72 mins: Chance!
Cole Palmer whips a pacey cross into the box and looks for Calvert-Lewin at the far post. The striker gets a glancing touch to the ball but sends it wide of the target!
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:24 , Mike Jones70 mins: Ben White’s introduction is met with some boos from the England fans.
White hasn’t been called up since the 2022 World Cup after a falling out during the camp in Qatar.
White had refused to play for England under Gareth Southgate but was open to a recall by Tuchel.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:23 , Mike Jones69 mins: Wharton is brought down by Arrascaeta and this time it is England who have the chance to send the ball into the box.
Tuchel makes four changes before this set piece. Harvey Barnes, Kobbie Mainoo, Ben White and Lewis Hall come on.
Marcus Rashford, Djed Spence, James Garner and Fikayo Tomori go off.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:21 , Mike Jones66 mins: Here we go.
Giorgian de Arrascaeta is fouled in a dangerous area for England.
He places the ball for the resultant free kick and lines it up only to whip it high and wide!
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:17 , Mike Jones63 mins: Marcus Rashford takes a shot from range but can’t beat the goalkeeper.
This match already has the feel of a goalless draw.
There’s a lack of inspiration from the Three Lions and little threat from Uruguay.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:14 , Mike Jones60 mins: The good news for England, and Man City, is that Foden’s injury doesn’t seem too serious. More of an impact knock.
But we won’t know more until the test have been done.
Back on the pitch, Djed Spence combines with Rashford on the left wing before looking to pick out Calvert-Lewin in the box and only finding the goalkeeper.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:12 , Mike Jones57 mins: Phil Foden is still limping around as Cole Palmer is being prepared on the sidelines.
It looks like another injury switch for England as Palmer does replace Foden who walks straight down the tunnel.
Dominic Calvert-Lewin is also brought on as Dominic Solanke goes off.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:08 , Mike Jones54 mins: Foden is back on the pitch and jogs off any lingering pain.
Uruguay have got away with that challenge and Tuchel is still ticking over on the sidelines.
The game is pretty much as it was in the first half. Not much rhythm.
Foden skips away from a couple of tackles with the ball at his feet and sends a soft effort into the hands of the goalkeeper.
'Should have been a red card'
Friday 27 March 2026 21:06 , Lawrence Ostlere at WembleyUruguay have been battering Phil Foden all evening and that was the worst of the lot, a dictionary definition of “excessive force”, studs up, high on the shin.
“Foden looks OK, but should have been a red card.”
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:05 , Mike Jones51 mins: Thomas Tuchel is incensed by a tackle from Ronald Araujo on Phil Foden.
Araujo leapt into a tackle and took out Foden who rolls on the floor clutching his ankle.
Tuchel is adament that Araujo should be shown a red card but VAR aren’t even looking at it.
Foden is on his feet and hobbling away to the side of the pitch. He looks okay.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 21:01 , Mike Jones48 mins: Just in case it is of note, Henderson’s exit means that Harry Maguire has been given the captain’s armband for the second half.
A cross field pass comes over to Bowen on the right wing. He brings it down superbly and then fizzes a low pass into the box but can’t pick out Solanke.
Second half! England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:59 , Mike JonesThomas Tuchel has made a change at half time with Adam Wharton replacing Jordan Henderson.
Henderson is an experienced customer for England Tuchel knows his qualities so now is the chance to see how Wharton challenges this Uruguay side.
HT England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:53 , Mike JonesEngland had the most possession in the first half with 63% and, as such, they created more chances.
Five compared to Uruguay’s three but the Three Lions found the target twice with the South American side yet to trouble James Trafford.
England need to improve in the final third and Marcus Rashford may prove to be the key to that having impressed in the first 45 minutes.
'That wasn't particularly exciting'
Friday 27 March 2026 20:49 , Lawrence Ostlere at WembleyWell, that was not particularly exciting, perhaps predictably so given England’s makeshift team tonight.
“Marcus Rashford was England’s brightest attacking player, although he butchered a counter-attack in added time with a poor pass. James Garner has been sharp and Phil Foden has buzzed around semi-purposefully.
“Tino Livramento has been vaguely interesting to watch. But otherwise I’m not sure what Thomas Tuchel can have learnt from that half.
“The reality is that very few of these players are going to play a meaningful role in North America this summer.”
Noni Madueke injury forces early substitution against Uruguay and concern for Arsenal
Friday 27 March 2026 20:45 , Mike JonesNoni Madueke is an injury doubt after being replaced in the first half of England’s international friendly against Uruguay.
The Arsenal winger was involved in a heavy collision with Rodrigo Aguirre on the edge of the Uruguay penalty area as he cut inside from the right and looked to shoot.
Aguirre tracked back and won the ball but his follow through clattered Madueke to the ground and he received treatment from the England medical team.
Noni Madueke injury forces early substitution against Uruguay and concern for Arsenal
Half-time! England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:41 , Mike Jones45+7 mins: No goals at Wembley and a less than thrilling half of football.
Perhaps more to come from England in the second half.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:41 , Mike Jones45+4 mins: Canobbio hangs a cross into the England box from the right wing but Trafford decides to come out and pucnh the ball clear.
It’s a decent decision from the goalkeeper who clears the danger.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:36 , Mike Jones45 mins: There’s seven minutes of added time to play at the end of the first half.
'A pity for Madueke'
Friday 27 March 2026 20:35 , Lawrence Ostlere at WembleyA pity for Madueke.
“He has been putting pressure on Saka with his performances at club level and it isn’t inconceivable that he muscles his way into Tuchel’s starting XI in North America.
“But his night is over without much opportunity to show his talent.”
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:31 , Mike Jones40 mins: James Garner swings a free kick into the Uruguay penalty area but it is cleared quite comfortably by the visitors.
England need to click back into gear after Madueke’s injury.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:27 , Mike Jones36 mins: Noni Madueke isn’t okay. He hobbles off the pitch again under guidance from the physios and seems to be awkwardly moving his jaw.
Jarrod Bowen is brought on to replace him as Thomas Tuchel takes no chances with him.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:23 , Mike Jones33 mins: Ouch!
Noni Madueke needs a minute after being clattered by Rodrigo Aguirre.
The Uruguayan won the ball as Madueke was about to shoot but his follow through took the wind out of the England winger.
He’s still on the deck receiving some medical treatment and Tuchel takes the chance to issue new instructions to his players.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:21 , Mike Jones30 mins: Marcus Rashford has a bit of joy on the left wing taking on the defenders.
He weaves and tricks his way to the edge of the box before poking it back ot Garner.
Garner crosses and finds Solanke but his header loops up for an easy catch for Muslera.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:16 , Mike Jones27 mins: A long ball up the pitch is won by Uruguay and taken up by Agustin Canobbio.
He has options on both sides but decides to shoot and smokes his effort high and wide.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:14 , Mike Jones24 mins: It’s a tough game this one. Uruguay are a step up in class to the teams England have faced in World Cup qualifying and the Three Lions are fielding a team not used to playing with each other.
They had some joy but there hasn’t been the type of control Thomas Tuchel would like.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:10 , Mike Jones21 mins: Garner switches things up this time with his corner kick and curls the ball into the six-yard box, right on top of the goalkeeper.
Fernando Muslera slaps the ball away and gives up another set piece. This move comes to a premature end as the ball is slipped back to Foden who is offside.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:08 , Mike Jones18 mins: Close!
Manuel Ugarte loses the ball to James Garner pressing up the pitch.
The ball squirts out to Dominic Solanke who takes a touch and shoots on the turn.
His effort takes a deflection but lands in the hands of the goalkeeper who keeps it out without trouble.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:05 , Mike Jones15 mins: Piquerez cannot continue. He’s placed on a stretcher after a break of five-and-a-half minutes.
Replacing him is Jose Maria Gimenez who also collects the captain’s armband for Uruguay.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:03 , Mike Jones13 mins: Oh no.
Joaquin Piquerez and Noni Madueke come together over by the Uruguay byline.
The defender comes off worse and seemingly twists his ankle before rolling off the pitch.
Immediately the physios are called on and this injury looks to be a bit more serious than first thought.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 20:00 , Mike Jones11 mins: Garner is on set piece duties again after Dominic Solanke’s long range effort is deflected out for a corner.
He aims for the far post again and there’s a bit of pressure on the Uruguay defence but they handle it well enough.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:57 , Mike Jones9 mins: Uruguay have taken control of the ball and Federico Valverde looks to feed a pass through the lines only to see Harry Maguire intercept it.
Maguire sends the ball out to Madueke on the right wing and he charges forward before going down under a challenge.
The referee isn’t interested in the calls for a free kick.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:55 , Mike Jones6 mins: Lee Dixon agrees with my assessment of this new England kit.
Speaking on ITV’s commentary he says: “I’m not a fan of them playing in red at home but it’s a nice kit.”
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:53 , Mike Jones4 mins: James Garner crosses the corner into the middle of the box and picks out Harry Maguire.
He can’t quite get his header under control and just nudges it over the crossbar.
England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:52 , Mike Jones3 mins: Harry Maguire drives forward with the ball from his position as the left centre-back.
He offloads the ball to James Garner who is clipped and fouled inside Uruguay’s half.
Phil Foden swings the ball to the far post where it gets nodded across to Noni Madueke. He looks to shoot on the turn but a defender comes in to nudge the ball out for a corner.
Kick off! England 0-0 Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:49 , Mike JonesEngland are wearing their brand new red away kit tonight. It looks good and will no doubt be getting a run out during the World Cup this summer.
The Three Lions get the match started and send the ball back to James Trafford in the hopes of building an attack from the back.
England vs Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:46 , Mike JonesThe players make their way out onto the pitch at Wembley with Jordan Henderson having the armband in the absence of Harry Kane tonight.
England don’t have the best record against Uruguay but can they change that this evening?
Kick off is up next...
England vs Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:40 , Mike JonesIs this the last chance for England’s fringe players to impress Thomas Tuchel?
The England boss said: "Buy into it. Buy into the ideas. Put the effort in. Put the intensity in your effort and support each other. These are the main headlines.
"Through training we gave them the headlines you just heard and then I told them that we always want the perfect match and the perfect training, but I am long enough a coach now to know that things can become difficult when you face a strong opponent.
"Some players are new, hearing my voice for the first time, training with us for the first time, hearing the ideas for the first time. So I know not everything is perfect from the start or throughout the match but like I said stick together."
Will England miss Kane?
Friday 27 March 2026 19:35 , Mike JonesHarry Kane has scored 10 goals in his last 10 England appearances, including nine in his first nine under Thomas Tuchel.
Kane also scored and assisted in Uruguay manager Marcelo Bielsa’s last match on English soil when he was Leeds manager, in a 4-0 win for Tottenham at Elland Road in February 2022.
However, the England captain is absent from the squad this evening and more likely to feature against Japan next week.
Bielsa's record
Friday 27 March 2026 19:30 , Mike JonesUruguay’s Marcelo Bielsa’s will manage his third game against England.
Hhe drew 0-0 at Wembley in February 2000 and lost 1-0 at the 2002 World Cup as Argentina boss.
This game will be 26 years and 32 days since his last game at Wembley, a record for a manager in games versus England – Bernd Stange has the current record (25 years and 32 days, Sept 1984 with East Germany – Oct 2009 with Belarus).
A good start to the year
Friday 27 March 2026 19:25 , Mike JonesEngland have won their first match of the calendar year in 11 of the last 13 years, though one of their defeats in this 13-year run was against a South American side at Wembley.
They lost 1-0 to Brazil in 2024.
A clean sheet for England?
Friday 27 March 2026 19:20 , Mike JonesEngland have kept a clean sheet in 11 of their last 12 matches, including the last six in a row since a 3-1 defeat to Senegal in June 2025.
Another clean sheet in this game will equal the Three Lions’ record for consecutive clean sheets since June/July 2021, a run of seven.
Uruguay lost their last match, suffering a 5-1 defeat to the USA. They haven’t lost consecutive games since losing four in a row in October/November 2021 in their final four games under Oscar Tabárez.
England vs South America
Friday 27 March 2026 19:15 , Mike JonesEngland have won two of their last 11 matches against South American nations (five draws, four defeats).
They beat Brazil in February 2013 and Peru in May 2014.
They’re winless in five since that Peru win (three draws, two defeats).
Could we see a goalless draw?
Friday 27 March 2026 19:10 , Mike JonesTwo of the four previous games between England and Uruguay at Wembley have ended 0-0, with those goalless games at the 1966 World Cup and in a 1995 friendly.
They are one of only three nations England have drawn more than one game 0-0 against at Wembley, along with Wales (3) and Sweden (2).
England vs Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 19:05 , Mike JonesThis is the first meeting between England and Uruguay since the 2014 World Cup, when the Three Lions were beaten 2-1 and knocked out of the tournament under manager Roy Hodgson.
England have just a 27% win ratio against them only having lower against Brazil and Romania among nations they’ve faced 10+ times.
How do you think England are shaping up for World Cup?
Friday 27 March 2026 19:00 , Mike JonesWhat are your thoughts on England’s preparations for the World Cup, and the interesting squad “split” deployed by Thomas Tuchel for this month’s camp?
Subscribe to chief football writer Miguel Delaney’s exclusive Inside Football newsletter and email m.delaney@independent.co.uk with a question for the chance to be featured.
Uruguay's team to take on England
Friday 27 March 2026 18:55 , Mike JonesUruguay starting XI: Muslera, Ronald Araujo, Ugarte, De Arrascaeta, Varela, Canobbio, Valverde, Olivera, Araujo, Piquerez, Aguirre
Subs: Rochet, Mele, Gimenez, Caceres, Sanabria, De La Cruz, Martinez, Nunez, Pellistri, Vina, Rodriguez, Vinas, Torres, Rodriguez
England's team changes
Friday 27 March 2026 18:50 , Mike JonesAs was expected, Thomas Tuchel makes 11 changes to the starting line-up for England’s clash with Uruguay.
In goal James Trafford gets the nod ahead of Aaron Ramsdale, Jordan Pickford and Jason Steele.
There is a recall for Harry Maguire in central defence and he will partner Fikayo Tomori with Tino Livramento and Djed Spence sit up at left and right back.
Jordan Henderson captains the side and partners James Garner at the base of midfield with the Everton midfielder being handed a senior debut.
Noni Madueke and Marcus Rashford set up on either wing with Phil Foden preferred to Cole Palmer as the No.10.
Dominic Solanke leads the line.
England’s Subs: Ramsdale, Pickford, Steele, Hall, Wharton, Stones, Palmer, White, Mainoo, Calvert-Lewin, Barnes, Bowen
Almost time for team news
Friday 27 March 2026 18:42 , Mike JonesThe England squad has arrived at Wembley and is preparing to take on Uruguay.
The starting XI drops shortly:
England team to take on Uruguay
Friday 27 March 2026 18:40 , Mike JonesEngland XI: Trafford; Spence, Maguire, Tomori, Livramento; Henderson, Garner; Madueke, Foden, Rashford; Solanke
Your #ThreeLions for the first time in 2026 ❤️ pic.twitter.com/4K19bU4QWE
— England (@England) March 27, 2026
John Stones needs to be 100% fit to make World Cup squad
Friday 27 March 2026 18:36 , Mike JonesThere are doubts over whether John Stones will start for England tonight - we’ll find out shortly when the line-ups drop - and Thomas Tuchel has been speaking about injury doubts.
He was asked if he would need to be 100% certain that Stones was fit in order to include him in the World Cup squad.
The England boss replied: "Yes, I guess so, but he came here and he was fit, then he feels something, so if we call him up there might be the chance he maybe misses out on a match at short notice.
"We have other top central defenders, but he can still play a part, with his energy and with his quality, but first of all I want him to be in camp as a player. Let's see how this camp continues and how it plays out."
Tuchel on calling up Harry Maguire
Friday 27 March 2026 18:30 , Mike JonesHarry Maguire is back in the England fold after impressing for Manchester United under interim boss Michael Carrick.
“Harry simply deserves it,” Tuchel said when asked why he was called up.
“He has, especially since Michael Carrick took over, had very, very good performances and fantastic results and is a key figure in the Man United squad who is now in third place and on a very good run of form.
“He’s a big reason for that, so he deserves to be with us. It’s interesting also for me to get to know him in person and to see him in training and see him within the group.
“He has outstanding qualities on set-pieces, so I’m happy that he found his way back to us.”
Harry Maguire on Tuchel’s England phone call, Carrick’s future and his one problem with Amorim
Friday 27 March 2026 18:24 , Mike JonesHarry Maguire was stepping onto a late afternoon flight to Bournemouth with his Manchester United teammates when a WhatsApp message pinged his phone. It was the England manager, Thomas Tuchel, asking if they could talk that evening.
Butterflies fluttered. Maguire hadn’t played for England for nearly two years, since he appeared in a Nations League game against Ireland in 2024.
Maguire on Tuchel’s call, Carrick’s future and his problem with Amorim
Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup
Friday 27 March 2026 18:18 , Richard JollyA third striker?
Tuchel has three No 9s in his group: an intriguing element is that Ollie Watkins, often Harry Kane’s understudy, is not one of them.
If he remains out in the cold, it could seem a straight shootout between the two Dominics, Solanke and Calvert-Lewin, for the back-up role; it is harder to see both being chosen.
There are other ways of finding another centre-forward: Phil Foden did well as a false nine against Serbia in November, Jarrod Bowen sometimes leads the line for West Ham, Anthony Gordon is now Newcastle’s central figure, and Marcus Rashford has played more games than any as the spearhead of a side.
Gareth Southgate took three centre-forwards to Euro 2024 – though Ivan Toney’s selection was partly for his penalty-taking. Tuchel is more likely to go with two and to use one of his extra three picks elsewhere.
Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup
Friday 27 March 2026 18:12 , Richard JollyA fifth winger?
Of course, Eberechi Eze could be that fifth winger. If Tuchel only takes four, difficult decisions beckon.
On the left, two of his favourites have been Anthony Gordon and Marcus Rashford, each offering similar pace, but Eze can come infield more; Harvey Barnes’s addition to the group only complicates the equation.
On the right, he has so far avoided making a definitive decision as to whether Noni Madueke or Jarrod Bowen is Bukayo Saka’s immediate deputy.
Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup
Friday 27 March 2026 18:06 , Richard JollyThree No 10s?
It has looked a likely scenario, simply because of the depth of talent in the position. As it is, Tuchel may still have to omit a supposedly generational talent, in either Phil Foden or Cole Palmer, because Morgan Rogers and Bellingham – despite being excluded from the squad in October – seem shoo-ins.
It would nevertheless appear imbalanced if Tuchel took four No 10s. The saving grace is that each is versatile: while Tuchel seems to want game-stretching width on the flanks, which is not Palmer’s forte, he can play off the right. Foden was used in attack in November. Eberechi Eze has scored for England as a left-winger. Morgan Gibbs-White, only really a No 10, has faded from the picture.
Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup
Friday 27 March 2026 18:00 , Richard JollyFive central midfielders?
Another area where it had looked like Tuchel would be content with a quartet. There are other ways of bolstering the contingent in the centre of the pitch: if Jude Bellingham is classed as a No 10, he can nevertheless operate in a deeper role, while Nico O’Reilly seems likely to travel as a left-back, but spent his youth in midfield, and has played there at times in 2026.
But the call-up of James Garner offers another dimension and a different way of configuring his squad. Garner is a central midfielder by preference but has flourished for David Moyes in a series of roles. Take him to the World Cup as the fifth midfielder and the 25-year-old could double up as the third right-back. Or if Tuchel took both Kobbie Mainoo and Adam Wharton, he may have five out-and-out central midfielders.
Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup
Friday 27 March 2026 17:54 , Richard JollyFive full-backs?
Reece James had spent longer on the sidelines than John Stones in recent seasons, but, while he sits out the current squad, he has made 36 appearances this season.
Before the Chelsea captain was hurt, the sense was that Tuchel was likelier to take four full-backs, in part because conceivably it still gives him three choices on either flank.
Tino Livramento and Djed Spence can play on both sides of the back four, while he has used two centre-backs – in Ezri Konsa and Jarell Quansah – at right-back, plus Dan Burn can be the world’s tallest left-back.
It may count against Trent Alexander-Arnold that, with James cemented as the first-choice right-back, Tuchel seems to prefer versatility to a second specialist.
Decisions for Tuchel before the World Cup
Friday 27 March 2026 17:48 , Richard JollyA fifth centre-back?
The logic of it may depend upon his best central defender. Because John Stones has played so little football for Manchester City, with no Premier League start since October, it would be a risk to take him as one of just four centre-backs, despite the excellent fitness records of Ezri Konsa and Marc Guehi.
Selecting five could also aid the chances of the recalled Harry Maguire, who has spent spells on the sidelines himself in recent years.
Few of Tuchel’s full-backs are plausible centre-back options: only the late addition Ben White and Reece James, his first-choice right-back, so that may be an added reason to go with five specialists in the middle.
James Garner hopes to replicate under-21 success with England senior squad
Friday 27 March 2026 17:42 , Mike JonesJames Garner is dreaming of winning the World Cup with England after receiving his maiden call-up to the senior squad.
The Everton midfielder has the chance to book his ticket to North America after he was named in Thomas Tuchel’s extended group for friendlies against Uruguay and Japan.
James Garner hopes to replicate under-21 success with England senior squad
Tuchel on calling up James Garner
Friday 27 March 2026 17:36 , Mike JonesEverton midfielder, James Garner, earned his first call up to the England team for this camp and will work with Thomas Tuchel for the first time.
Of Garner’s abilities, Tuchel said: “James Garner just has a fantastic season. He’s always available for Everton.
“He plays in multiple positions – right defender, left defender, six, eight. He’s fast, he has a clean foot and takes all the set pieces. I think he deserves it.
“He’s a bit of an underrated player. I saw him many times now live and convinced about his quality and his character and want to see how he does in camp.”
'I was very happy'
Friday 27 March 2026 17:30 , Mike JonesJames Garner has been speaking about earning a first call up to the senior England squad and revealed what it was like to get the phone call from Thomas Tuchel .
“He messaged me and said that we need a call,” he explained.
“Obviously, we had the call and it was a very positive one and I was very happy.
“I didn’t tell anybody because I knew the squad was going out the next day, so on the way to training, I rang my mum and my dad and brother and stuff and let them know, but I just wanted to digest it myself, so I didn’t even tell anyone.”
Predicted England XI
Friday 27 March 2026 17:24 , Mike JonesWith Thomas Tuchel splitting up his 35 player squad, tonight’s starting XI will feel like a whole new team.
Here’s how we see the Three Lions lining-up at the start of play:
Predicted England XI: Pickford; Livramento, Tomori, Maguire, Hall; Wharton, Garner; Madueke, Palmer, Rashford; Solanke
Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website
