There is a completely grounded debate about whether England can win the World Cup with Harry Kane or not. But the 0-1 defeat to Japan shows something clearer. Without Kane, the "Three Lions" have almost no worthy replacement.
Kane's absence comes from a minor injury in the final training session, and although not serious, it reveals a big problem in the context that England may have to play up to 7 matches at the World Cup.
Previously, coach Thomas Tuchel was asked about the option without Kane, after testing Dominic Solanke and Dominic Calvert-Lewin. He just laughed and admitted that he did not have a clear answer.
On the field, the deadlock of the England team is easily noticeable. Tuchel did not continue to use a true center forward but pulled Phil Foden to play as a false number 9, with Cole Palmer in the center and Morgan Rogers, Anthony Gordon supporting the two wings.
This option was not effective. Foden almost disappeared with only 22 touches and no shots before being substituted. Palmer even contributed to the goal conceded when Kaoru Mitoma stole the ball, opening a counter-attack leading to the only goal of the match.
Subsequent adjustments - Solanke coming on, Jarrod Bowen appearing or Marcus Rashford creating a late breakthrough - were also not enough to change the situation. Most of England's pressure only came from set pieces, where Harry Maguire and Dan Burn caused difficulties for the opponent.
This defeat further emphasizes Kane's influence. The Bayern Munich striker has scored 53 goals in 45 matches this season, and has not only brought goals but also been the spiritual leader of the whole team.
Since the 2018 World Cup, England has won 65% of matches with Kane, but that number decreased when he was absent. However, the problem is not only in statistics but also in the way of operating the playing style.
No team can maintain attacking power without a player like Harry Kane. We can still win without him, but clearly it's easier with him" - Tuchel admitted.
However, the problem is not only in injuries. Kane has faced physical difficulties in major tournaments, and the harsh conditions at the upcoming World Cup make the need for rotation even more urgent.
Experiments with Solanke, Calvert-Lewin or Foden have not been convincing, while Ollie Watkins - who was not called up this time - has emerged as a more reliable option. Even Danny Welbeck could be considered if he maintains his form in the Premier League.
England has won all qualifying rounds, but under Tuchel, they only drew with Uruguay and lost to both Senegal and Japan when facing strong teams.
Tests are necessary, but the ultimate goal is to find a solution. And at this time, it seems Tuchel has not yet found a way for the England team to operate effectively without Harry Kane.
