DISAPPOINTMENT: How England’s 'egotistical losers' blew their biggest chance for a second World Cup crown against Brazil in 2002 - and the lessons Thomas Tuchel must learn

England didn’t lose the 2002 World Cup because they lacked talent — they lost it because they lacked belief. With a golden generation at its peak and Brazil vulnerable, this should have been the moment football finally came home again. Instead, fear, caution, and a fractured team culture turned England’s biggest opportunity into another chapter of heartbreak. This is Legacy, GOAL’s podcast following the countdown to the 2026 World Cup and this episode was inspired by a story by James Westwood. Each week, we explore the stories and the spirit behind the nations that define the world’s game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices