Keane’s scepticism is hardly new. England’s recent progress in major tournaments has brought expectation as well as excitement, and the former midfielder appears more comfortable questioning the optimism than embracing it.
His Australia line is therefore more than a throwaway gag. It captures the tension surrounding a team expected to challenge for honours but still carrying the weight of past disappointments. If England really does reach the latter stages, Keane may have to endure exactly the scenario he joked about escaping.
Before any semi-final drama, England must negotiate what Keane reportedly considers the toughest early assignment: their opening group-stage match against Croatia.
“Estranhamente para a Inglaterra, o primeiro jogo é o mais difícil no grupo, não é? Croácia”, Keane observed. Croatia’s experience and competitive edge make the fixture an immediate examination of England’s composure, rather than a routine start.
Stuart Pearce offered a more optimistic view, saying, “Se eles passarem por essa, a primeira do grupo, você fica no controle do grupo”. Keane’s quick response - “Certo, ok, calma um pouco” - underlined the caution that defines his outlook.
The next storyline is whether England can turn that difficult opening into early momentum. A strong result against Croatia would quiet some doubts; a poor one would give Keane’s warnings fresh life.