Whereas the so-called Golden Generation regularly suffered at the first sign of pressure, the newer, less experienced England refused to panic. Admittedly, Gareth Southgate’s men initially looked to be slipping towards a disappointing draw with a relatively lethargic second-half performance against Tunisia, yet their more patient approach eventually paid off.
The winner came in the 91st minute, scored by the man who appeared to have wandered into a game of rugby league, so often was Harry Kane manhandled by England’s opponents.
Of course, the Three Lions should have had the match wrapped up by the half-hour mark, with Raheem Sterling, Jesse Lingard and Dele Alli all fluffing glorious opportunities. But if England can improve their shooting prowess, their rampant opening spell – and apparent lack of the dreaded fear – suggests they could well surpass rather humble expectations.