The World Cup Psychology Show: England vs Mexico - Saka's focus, Pickford's emotional regulation and why being 'under the cosh' can create collective flow

In the latest episode of The World Cup Psychology Show, Tim Harkness, Chelsea’s former head of Sport Science & Psychology, who worked with Thomas Tuchel at Stamford Bridge, and David Wheeler, one of the only former pro footballers turned psychologists working in the game, join me to look back at England’s win against Mexico.We examine the unerring focus Tuchel’s displayed in the Azteca couldron, why Jordan Pickford’s on-pitch personality was tailor-made for this type of match and why defending for your lives might actually be one of the tactical setups most conducive to creating a collective flow state. Questions?If you have any queries about the newsletter, get in touch by emailing [email protected] articlesAs a Mind Room Member, you can access all of the website stories - covering everything from AC Milan’s neuroscience lab to the way English rugby teams are embracing ‘shared mental models’ - via the four sections below:* Theory* Practice* Strategy * FeaturesThanks again for reading The Mind Room! This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit themindroom.substack.com/subscribe