Match News and Current Form

England produced one of the most eye-catching performances of the World Cup to beat Croatia 4-2 in their opening game thanks to a second-half rally. Giving up two goals before half-time was certainly a concern and the Three Lions might be wary given the previous time they’d conceded more than once was against African opponents en route to a 3-1 defeat against Senegal last June. But with Harry Kane now level with Gary Lineker’s English record of World Cup goals (ten), and Thomas Tuchel’s side losing just one of their last 11 fixtures (W9, D1), they look to have the firepower to overcome any potential defensive problems.

Ghana also got underway with a win but were far less convincing as they struck late to beat Panama 1-0 in their opener and end a six-match winless run (D1, L5). The Black Stars will hope finally getting a victory under their belts can drive them to better things, although history suggests they’re up against it as they’ve only once before won two group games in one World Cup. Losing each of their last three fixtures against sides ranked inside FIFA’s top 20 while conceding exactly twice is another ominous omen conspiring against them as they take on #4-ranked England.