Following their enchanting victory over Iran in the opening World Cup matchday, England failed to replicate the same performance when they clashed heads with the United States at Al Bayt Stadium. In fact, the Americans had the upper hand during large spells while the Three Lions were unfertile in attack, but neither side managed to break the deadlock. So here are our player ratings for England who maintained their lead on top of Group B following their stalemate with USA.
England (4-2-3-1)
Jordan Pickford – 6
The Everton custodian earned a clean sheet without having much to do. His defenders cleared most of the opposition’s chances while the woodwork bailed him out on Christian Pulisic’s shot.
Kieran Trippier – 6
It wasn’t the most exciting display from the Newcastle man who rarely darted forward. Pulisic gave him some headaches in their duels.
John Stones – 7
The Man City defender kept his composure in the face of the American pressure. Didn’t give Haji Wright a sniff at the ball.
Harry Maguire – 7.5
The much-maligned Man United defender was arguably the man of the match, at least for England. Made a flurry of vital interceptions, especially in the air.
Luke Shaw – 6
Similarly to Trippier, the left-back wasn’t too adventurous, as Gareth Southgate entrusted him with marking the dangerous Timothy Weah. Picked up Kane with a sublime freekick in injury-time.
Jude Bellingham – 5
A match to forget for the wonderkid who failed to assert his dominance in the middle of the park and was rightfully hauled off in favor of Henderson. He’ll be back stronger, undoubtedly.
Declan Rice – 6.5
The West Ham midfielder performed a solid job when it comes to shielding the backline. Played in a deep position while picking up his teammates with decent passes.
Bukayo Saka – 5.5
The Arsenal youngster couldn’t replicate his heroics from the first match as he hardly found enough space to make his runs.
Mason Mount – 5
A disappointing outing from the Chelsea playmaker who struggled against the formidable Tyler Adams and added very little in terms of creativity.
Raheem Sterling – 5
At this point, most England fans would agree that the squad has better options on the left wing. An unmemorable display from the Chelsea man who rarely touched the ball.
Harry Kane – 5.5
The Spurs striker was only able to take part in the action when dropping between the lines to receive the ball. Tried to put his teammates through with some clever passes and found mild success. Wasted a glorious header in added-time.
Read our Player Ratings for USA
Substitutes
Jack Grealish – 6
The former Aston Villa star was an upgrade on Sterling on the left wing. Set up Rashford with a formidable backheel.
Jordan Henderson – 6
Perhaps England didn’t create too many chances following his introduction, but they certainly held the ball better. The Liverpool captain added some much-needed experience to the flat midfield.
Marcus Rashford – 5.5
Didn’t have a ton of time to make an impact, but should have done better with his shot after finding himself unmarked.
 |
Follow us on Google News for more updates on Serie A and Italian football |