England failed to live up to their ‘it’s coming home’ promise as defending World Cup champions France claimed a tense 2-1 win in this blockbuster quarter-final tie. Despite putting on a spirited performance, the Three Lions must settle for another premature exit at major international tournaments.
After surging through Group B without a loss (W2, D1), England made light work of Senegal in the round of 16, claiming an overwhelming 3-0 triumph to set up this mouth-watering quarter-final tie. However, Gareth Southgate knew Kylian Mbappe-led France would give his men a hard time.
Not even a 100% H2H win ratio across two previous World Cup encounters was enough to settle the nerves in the England camp. Desperate to adhere to their famous ‘it’s coming home’ promise, the Three Lions had to defy the odds to overcome the reigning world champions.
It didn’t start well for the beaten Euro 2020 finalists as Aurelien Tchoumani fired France 1-0 up at halftime with a stunning goal from a mid-range distance. However, England reacted well, recovering possession and pushing forward in numbers.
An attacking approach paid off early in the second half. Tcouhameni brought Bukayo Saka down to the ground inside the 16-yard box, with Harry Kane converting the spot-kick to draw the Three Lions level in the 54th minute. France replied through Olivier Giroud. The Milan marksman’s header connected with Antoine Griezmann’s cross to catapult Les Bleus into another lead.
However, England had the best possible opportunity to avoid defeat after Theo Hernandez brought Mason Mount down in the box. Kane stepped out to take the penalty again but completely missed the target to end the Three Lions’ World Cup campaign.
England (4-3-3)
Jordan Pickford – 7
While there’s a feeling he could’ve done better to deny Tchouameni’s goal, the Everton goalkeeper improved as the game progressed. Pulled off a phenomenal save to deny Giroud from point-blank moments before conceding the second.
Kyle Walker – 6.5
Despite lacking pace to cope with Mbappe’s blistering speed, the Manchester City ace did a great job containing one of the world’s best players. It had to come at the expense of his attacking aspirations, though.
John Stones – 5.5
Lost numerous aerial dules with Giroud and often failed to deal with Kylian Mbappe’s explosive pace. At least did well with the ball at his feet.
Harry Maguire – 6.5
Despite all the criticism thrown his direction, it was a decent performance from the Manchester United captain. He even made Les Bleus’ defense sweat on England’s set-pieces.
Luke Shaw – 6.5
Another Man United player who had a solid game. His deadly crossing and tireless runs down the left flank was a powerful weapon for England.
Declan Rice – 6
While there’s no denying the sought-after West Ham United man is a generational talent, you’d expect something concrete from such a highly-rated midfielder.
Jude Bellingham – 6.5
Caught the eye with some quick-feet moves, but unlike his brilliant display against Senegal, Bellingham wasn’t at his best tonight.
Jordan Henderson – 6
A lack of pace and clear ideas on how to penetrate France’s well-positioned backline saw the Liverpool captain struggle to impact the game the way he did against Senegal.
Bukayo Saka – 7
Undoubtedly the most dangerous England player at Al Bayt Stadium. In addition to drawing a penalty for his team, Arsenal’s quicksilver winger was a menace on the right side.
Phil Foden – 6
While Saka impressed, his Man City counterpart failed to live up to expectations, struggling to make his presence in the front third count.
Harry Kane – 7
He should’ve scored more tonight. After being denied by Hugo Lloris several times in the first half, he slotted home a penalty to draw England level but failed to repeat that at the second time of asking.
Read Our Player Ratings for France
Substitutes
Raheem Sterling – N/A
Mason Mount – N/A
Apart from drawing a penalty from Hernandez, he barely had any contact with the ball.
Marcus Rashford – N/A
Came agonizingly close to leveling the scores with a direct free-kick in the dying moments.
Jack Grealish – N/A