England missed the opportunity to secure top spot in Group L after a goalless draw with Ghana in Boston. The result leaves the Three Lions needing a result in their final group match to advance.
Gordon Fails to Seize Opportunity
Anthony Gordon, who started on the left flank ahead of Marcus Rashford, failed to make an impact for the second consecutive match. The 25-year-old, who joined Barcelona for £69.3 million, looked a shadow of the player who impressed in England's final warm-up match against Costa Rica.
Gordon provided an assist for Declan Rice and scored a penalty in that 2-0 win, but against Ghana he lacked tempo and urgency. His defensive lapse just after half-time allowed Ghana's Marvin Senaya to ghost in on goal, highlighting his struggles.
Tuchel's Tactical Gamble
Thomas Tuchel made changes to the side that beat Croatia in Texas, but the decision to start Gordon backfired. The German manager had demanded more intensity and energy from his players after a half-time team talk in the previous match, but Gordon failed to respond.
Marcus Rashford, who has 28 goal involvements for Manchester United this season, came off the bench and looked hungry to prove a point. He has scored three times in World Cup matches, including a goal against Croatia in the previous game.
What's Next for England?
Gordon's shaky performance does not mean he has no role to play, but he may be better suited as a 'finisher' off the bench. With Rashford chomping at the bit for a starting berth, Tuchel faces a tough decision for the next match.
England must now regroup and secure qualification to the knockout stages. The team's performance against Ghana was a step back from the emphatic response to Tuchel's half-time rally in Dallas.
