England head coach Thomas Tuchel shows his disappointment during the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina in AtlantaImage source, Getty Images
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England head coach Thomas Tuchel during the World Cup semi-final loss to Argentina in Atlanta

ByPhil McNultyChief football writer in Madrid

England's proof of progress and the lessons learned by head coach Thomas Tuchel since the disappointment of World Cup semi-final defeat by Argentina will be put to the sternest test when they face holders Spain in Madrid.

Spain present the toughest assignment England could face, with the world champions' unbeaten run – in which they claimed the sport's biggest prize by beating Argentina in New Jersey in the summer – now stretching to 43 games.