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What should we expect from England against Croatia?
In the run-in to big games I quite like to try and work out (because I’m sad like that), from the messages that are coming from the coach and key players, is what the motivational climate in the camp is, and therefore how the team might play.The vibes that I’m getting from England and McLaren in particular are about determination and professionalism – about “getting the job done” and meeting expectations. This suggests that the focus is very much on the result and its consequences, but also on staying in control.
So what? Well, even though the manager has called for an up-tempo approach to the game, we might not expect too much creativity or flair to be on show. It’s going to be about discipline and sticking with the plan, and it could be a pretty nervy affair. So, I would expect it to be tight – maybe only one goal in it.
I guess you could say that’s what most people would predict but still, that’s what I’m picking up from a psychological point of view.
Of course, on the day, the climate could be different, and I think the thing that could do most to change it could be an early goal. No matter who gets it, things could go in all sorts of directions from there!
