Ghana put on a defensive masterclass as they held star-studded England to a 0-0 draw in their Group L match at Boston Stadium in Massachusetts on Tuesday.
The Black Stars were happy to let England have the ball as they showed impressive defensive durability, though Thomas Tuchel’s men would undoubtedly feel they should have scored given they had 78 per cent possession.
England were able to establish a rhythm or find space. The first effort came from Declan Rice, who fired just over the bar from distance. The Arsenal midfielder also headed over the top later in the half, but chances were in short supply for the mighty Three Lions. Ghana enjoyed better territory before the break, but ultimately went without even registering a shot
In the second stanza, Ghana began to threaten on the counter, but only when the match truly opened up in the dying embers did both sides have their best chances.
Prince Kwabena Adu raced through with Antoine Semenyo in support, but England stopper Jordan Pickford was wise to the threat and rushed out and smothered the danger. Then Bukayo Saka’s cross was headed onto the bar by Nico O’Reilly, and Harry Kane miscued the rebound high into the screaming stand.
England still top Group L after the draw and are virtually assured a place in the Round of 32. Speaking to the press afterwards, Tuchel admitted the defence was tough to crack.
“It is difficult to find a way through when someone plays a 4-5-1 and completely deep and is committed to it and they celebrated a 0-0 like a win,” said the German.
“So you could see the different approaches, which is fair enough and credit to them. You cannot lose your head about it.”
Meanwhile captain Rice gave credit where it was due and remained positive about England’s campaign.
“They were very compact, tight spaces to play through, but on the other hand we can do more with the ball,” he said.
“You have to give credit to Ghana. It’s tough and they are good players, so it was never going to be an easy game. We have one more group game to top the group, so we have to be positive. Loads of top nations draw the first game so there is no need to be negative or downbeat. We will stay positive.”
