Noni Madueke says England are taking the potential of a penalty shootout “very severely” as they head into the World Cup finals.
Thomas Tuchel’s facet might be favorites to advance from the spherical of 32 on Wednesday after they face Democratic Republic of the Congo, who’ve superior from the group stage for the primary time.
Nonetheless, Maduke insisted that no stone could be left unturned on the subject of England’s preparations, together with the potential of a penalty shootout.
Below Gareth Southgate, the Three Lions gained three of their 4 penalty shootouts, however spot-kicks have been an issue for the Three Lions over time.
They’ve been eradicated on penalties in six main competitions, together with the 1990, 1998 and 2006 World Cups and defeat within the Euro 2020 closing towards Italy.
Monday’s closing was dominated by shootouts, with Germany and the Netherlands eradicated by spot-kicks losses to Paraguay and Morocco, respectively.
“As with all phases of play, we take this matter very severely,” Madueke mentioned.
“The extra you get into knockout soccer, the extra pronounced it turns into within the recreation, so like each a part of our recreation, we wish to be on the highest degree on the subject of that.
“I am all the time open to taking a penalty. Ultimately it is dependent upon the supervisor’s choice and what he desires and what he thinks is finest for the group, however from my facet I am all the time prepared.”
“Lots of it’s psychological. The way you hit the ball on a run-up, whether or not you cease or watch for the goalkeeper, or whether or not you choose a nook and attempt to hit it as cleanly as attainable. All of that performs into the sport.”
“We’re prepared from the start.”
Noni Madueke faces Democratic Republic of Congo in spherical of 32
— England (@England) June 29, 2026
Maduke began forward of Bukayo Saka in each England’s Group L openers towards Croatia and Ghana, and got here off the bench instead of his Arsenal team-mate within the win over Panama.
The previous Chelsea winger believes the rivalry between the pair has been mutually useful, not just for membership and nation, but in addition on a private degree.
“Clearly it is properly documented that we’re so shut that usually it could be a bit bizarre, but it surely’s not,” Maduke added. “I do not really feel prefer it has any impact on our relationship.
“Once we play, we each need one of the best. On the finish of the day, if he performs properly and I play properly, then England and Arsenal have a greater likelihood of successful.”
“By way of our variations, I believe I thrive in house and he thrives in crowds.
“I really feel like I’ve to be on the highest degree on a regular basis as a result of I do know the highest gamers are ready and biting their heels to get into the group.
“I believe that wholesome competitors is nice, however whether or not you play for Arsenal or play for England, you do not want anybody else to maintain you on the highest degree. that is a should.”
