World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA – Three Lions labour to goalless draw

England missed out on a place in the knockout stages of the World Cup, drawing with the United States.

England, Defensively poor from Harry Maguire and riding their chances, Weston McKenney missed an easy chance and Christian Pulisic kicked the ball in the first half.

Mason Mount made a fine save from USA goalkeeper Matt Turner just before the break, but it was a similar display as the Three Lions went into their opener against Iran without a single attacking draw and head into their game against Wales. Their fate is undecided.

England remain firm favorites to qualify for the group stage, knowing they will only need to go through to avoid a four-goal defeat against Wales.

Aggressive England is enough to get a point.

A few days ago, England’s performance against Iran was uncharacteristic of their creativity and threat. Instead, it was a tireless effort that drew loud boos from the fans at the final whistle.

They lacked any spark or zip, looked thrashed throughout and the USA, led by the excellent Pulisic, were fortunate not to take advantage.

England posed little threat in the second half: captain Harry Kane’s late header was the only worry for the United States.

Jude Bellingham was unable to provide the highlight drive for Iran’s victory and was eventually replaced by Jordan Henderson.

Southgate’s decision to keep faith with Maguire has drawn much attention given the Manchester United captain’s poor form at club level for a long time. Manager Maguire continued his strong record in the major competitions and was a rare light on a very poor night for England.

England are still almost certain to qualify, but this was a terrifying reality check.

They need to perform much better than this when it comes down to it later in the tournament.

Pulisic who stands out

Pulisic has found his opportunities limited at Chelsea in recent times but here he showed exactly why he is so highly rated.

Pulisic has been a star player for the United States, leading from the front and even being a cheerleader for their fans when they put on pressure in the second half.

He troubled England’s defense with his clever running and possession and was unlucky to see off a powerful first-half drive from Jordan Pickford’s shot.

Leeds United’s Tyler Adams was another inspirational figure as the USA claimed their full points – and could easily have had all three.

England have a history of trouble at the World Cup, losing in 1950 and drawing in 2010 against the USA.

Once again, they proved to be a thorn in their side and at the final whistle, the English players and management looked relieved to escape with a point.

The player of the game

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PulisicChristian Pulisic