FIFA World Cup 2026: England Tournament Thread [R]

The save by the Costa Rican keeper on Kane's header was world class

 

Think he’s been generally too safe by his standards to be honest but it’s not a concern as we know what he will do when it matters.

 

Anderson rice Bellingham have looked really good together in midfield

 

Gordon has been very good, our best player so far. Madueke lively but lacking quality as I suspected. Bellingham been ok.

I’d expect this to be our starting lineup v Croatia except maybe Guehi in for Stones and Saka (if fit) in for Madueke. Gordon probably done enough in that half to start ahead of Rashford.

 

I happened to rewatch that game last night to show my dad about the recent history of England. Colombia pulled every trick in the book and still lost. Definitely the most satisfying and pressure packed England victory I've seen to date.

 

The wingers have certainly looked far more effective so far. But remember this Costa Rican defense is really low level.

Our wingers probably won't be given that amount of respect against Stanisic and Gvardiol

 

Good too see Maduke's miss from all possible angles, he was really close ...

 

As they should

 

I think he's being more risk adventurous because of the opponent.

 

This is why I was excited about Madueke being picked. He's very capable of producing magical moments and he's solidified his place in the team today.

 

I care more about the product of play and it's at a high level and they're creating good chances.

 

That was pure relief because I would have been so angry if we had been knocked out by them the way they played.

 

Lee Dixon is such a negative turd

 

I like how he's not afraid to tell things how they are, but naturally those people will slip into too much negativity.

 

Lovely attempt from Madueke

 

I am sure he is proud of his contribution to not qualifying for the 1994 WC.

 

Kane might be the best England passer I've ever seen.

 

It's converting those chances that matters. It's only Costa Rica after all.

 

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It sounds like a promising half of attacking football, but it's always been the worry that we don't have a killer instinct. Only one goal when we've had over 80% possession and the world's best striker on the pitch is definitely cause for concern.

Simon, Brisbane" Someone else agrees. How can anyone be happy with 1-0 after 80% possession?

 

Bellingham´s having a stinker so far apart from the pass to Madueke, James unimpressive as well. How can they only be 1-0 up? Lack of converting the chances created a bit worrying

 

None of this matters apart from not getting an injury. We have created chances, we look like we could comfortably increase the intensity.

That's good enough for a friendly 24 hours before the world cup starts.

 

Our set pieces have been shit

 

Oh joy. It's that time of the year

 

Costa Rica aren't having much luck trying bully England.

 

They seem to have calmed down a bit