England have four points from their first two World Cup matches after a goalless draw against Ghana in Boston. The result, while keeping them top of the group, served as a reality check for manager Thomas Tuchel. Ghana pressed effectively, broke quickly, and defended resolutely to frustrate England and secure a point that puts them on the verge of qualification.
No World Cup winner since 2002 has won every group game, but the performance highlighted a lack of creativity against a deep defensive block. Tuchel must now make four changes to avoid a repeat against Panama and beyond.
Wingers Need Replacing
Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke failed to unlock the Ghana defence. According to Amos Murphy, they lack the technical ability to pick a lock and create something out of nothing. Bukayo Saka is an automatic starter after looking more threatening when he came on. For the left side, either Marcus Rashford or Eberechi Eze should start.
Left-Back Experiment Fails
The Djed Spence experiment at left-back was strange. Nico O'Reilly, who thrives for Manchester City against deep defences, offers intricate passing and box-crashing ability. He is a certainty to return against Panama.
Bellingham Benched for Rogers
Jude Bellingham was anonymous after a stellar performance against Croatia. Morgan Rogers is better suited to games where opponents look to frustrate, as Tuchel has a 26-man squad to utilise. Predicted XI vs Panama: Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, O'Reilly; Rice, Anderson, Rogers; Rashford, Kane, Saka.
