Wayne Rooney believes England missed the creativity of Phil Foden and Cole Palmer during their frustrating 0-0 draw with Ghana at the World Cup on Tuesday night. The Three Lions dominated possession with nearly 79% and registered 19 shots to Ghana's two, but could not find a breakthrough in Boston.
Rooney Points to Missing Creative Talents
Speaking after the match, the Manchester United legend singled out Foden and Palmer, both omitted from Thomas Tuchel's squad, as the type of players needed to unlock a deep-lying defence. 'These games are more difficult than games against better teams that are better going forward. There's more space,' Rooney said. 'I don't want to go back to it, but these games are when you need a Phil Foden or a Cole Palmer. Clever players in tight areas.'
Declan Rice Struggles Against Low Block
Rooney also criticised Declan Rice's performance, suggesting the midfielder lacked the tools to break down Ghana's compact 5-4-1 formation. 'With Declan Rice, through all Declan's qualities, getting in little tight areas and linking play…that's where you probably need a Foden or a Palmer,' he added.
England's best chances came in the final minutes, with Bukayo Saka, Nico O'Reilly, and Harry Kane all going close. Ghana's disciplined defence, marshalled by coach Carlos Queiroz, blocked numerous efforts before they reached goal.
Rice Admits Difficulty Against Stubborn Defence
Declan Rice acknowledged the challenge posed by Ghana's defensive setup. 'It is always difficult when you play against 11 behind the ball as deep as they were, but you have to find solutions. In the last 10 minutes we were unlucky not to score,' he told the BBC. 'We still have a great chance to top the group against Panama so positivity all round. They were very compact, 5-4-1 off the ball and tight spaces to play through, but on the other hand we can do more with the ball.'
Rice also praised Ghana's quality: 'You have to give credit to Ghana. It's tough and they are good players so it was never going to be an easy game. We have one more group game to top the group so we have to be positive. Loads of top nations draw the first game so there is no need to be negative or downbeat. We will stay positive.'
England's World Cup Campaign Continues
The draw followed England's impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia in their opening match. Tuchel's side now face Panama in their final group game, needing a win to guarantee top spot. Despite the setback, England remain in a strong position to advance to the knockout stages.
