England missed the chance to secure not only an early qualification for the 2026 World Cup playoffs but also to clinch the top spot in their group. Under Thomas Tuchel’s management, the team unexpectedly stumbled against Ghana, with the match ending in a goalless draw.
The English side dominated possession for about 80% of the game. However, their control proved ineffective as Ghana parked the bus firmly in front of their penalty area, blocking all attacking lanes. In the first half, Ghana’s goalkeeper was barely tested—Declan Rice’s long-range shot sailed over the crossbar, and Harry Kane’s attempt just before halftime was blocked by three defenders. By the end of the first 45 minutes, England’s expected goals (xG) stood at a disappointing 0.27.
The pattern of play remained largely unchanged after the break. England continued to operate at a sluggish pace, while Ghana nearly punished the favorites in the 79th minute when Prince Adu broke free for a one-on-one with the goalkeeper but delayed his shot. Realizing his initial game plan was failing, Tuchel made radical changes, almost completely overhauling the attacking line. It was only in the final ten minutes that England ramped up the intensity and created genuine chances. First, the Ghanaian goalkeeper saved a powerful strike from Saka, and then in the 87th minute, O’Reilly’s header from a cross hit the crossbar, followed by Kane’s rebound shot flying over the bar.
After two rounds, England has accumulated four points and will continue to share the lead of Group L alongside Ghana.
2026 World Cup
England – Ghana 0:0
England: Pickford; Konsa; Gehi; James R.; Spence D. (O’Reilly, 65); Rice; Anderson E. (Eze, 73); Madueke (Rashford, 83); Bellingham (Rogers M., 74); Kane G.; Gordon E. (Saka B., 64)
Substitutions: Saka B. (64); O’Reilly (65); Eze (73); Rogers M. (74); Rashford (83)
Reserves: Henderson D.; Trafford; Burn; Stones; Chalobah; Quansa; Henderson; Maynu; Watkins; Townie A.
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