It's absolutely true that there were great champions [at Milan], but at the heart of everything was the game that these champions knew how to interpret to perfection. How many teams made up of champions haven't followed the same path as us? Many, many. I remember, because I had firsthand experience, that when I went to Real Madrid, this was the attack: Beckham, Raul, Ronaldo the Phenomenon, Zidane, and Figo.
There is plenty of expectation on the Red Roses but pressure is a privilege and they have dealt with everything that has come their way so far. There is expectation because they are 31 matches unbeaten. England have repeatedly demonstrated they are not just a side who perform at World Cups: their consistency in tournament cycles is clear to see.
Not even the most blinkered South Korean fan would deny that Japan presents the United States with the strongest test that Asia has to offer. The Samurai Blue may not have a player like Christian Pulisic who has played regularly at elite clubs, but the roster is full of talents playing at high level, and was the first country other than the hosts to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Evenepoel expressed frustration over the bizarre tactics used by some teams, particularly Lotto, who had strong riders but failed to collaborate effectively during the race.