England face Ghana in their second Group L match of the 2026 World Cup, and an EA FC 26 simulation has predicted a dramatic 3-3 draw, with the Three Lions surrendering a three-goal lead. The match takes place at Gillette Stadium near Boston, with kick-off at 9pm BST. A win for either side would guarantee a place in the Second Round.
Simulated Starting XI and Tactical Changes
The simulation backed Thomas Tuchel to keep Marcus Rashford on the bench after his goal-scoring cameo against Croatia, but reinstated Marc Guehi to the starting line-up. Guehi was demoted in favour of John Stones against Croatia but replaced the experienced centre-back late on. In the simulation, he partners Ezri Konsa at the back. The full simulated England XI: Jordan Pickford; Reece James, Ezri Konsa, Marc Guehi, Nico O'Reilly; Declan Rice, Elliot Anderson; Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Anthony Gordon; Harry Kane.
First Half: Cautious and Scoreless
Unlike the fast-paced opening against Croatia, the first half was cagey. Bukayo Saka had a penalty appeal dismissed, and Harry Kane's close-range attempt was saved by Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare. England's only effort on goal came from Kane.
Second Half Blitz: Three Goals in 19 Minutes
The game burst into life seven minutes into the second half. Marcus Rashford, introduced at half-time, set up the opener in the 52nd minute. After his shot was saved by Asare, Kane nodded home to claim England's all-time World Cup goalscoring record. Kane added a second in the 63rd minute with a clinical finish from outside the box, and Rashford scored the third in the 71st minute, slotting home beyond Asare.
Ghana's 10-Minute Fightback
With England 3-0 up and in control, the momentum shifted dramatically. On 79 minutes, Baba Rahman beat Pickford from 20 yards with a curling strike into the top-right corner. Then, Ezri Konsa was penalised for handball inside the box, and Antoine Semenyo scored from the penalty spot to make it 3-2. Inaki Williams completed the comeback two minutes into stoppage time, leaving England fans in disbelief.
Final Result and Concerns
The EA FC 26 simulation ended England 3-3 Ghana. Having witnessed a dramatic 4-2 win over Croatia, supporters will hope this simulation proves inaccurate. The real match will determine whether England qualify for the knockout rounds or face a nervy final group game.
