FOXBOROUGH — England missed a chance to secure an early place in the World Cup knockout stage after being held to a goalless draw by Ghana on Tuesday.
Despite dominating possession and outshooting Ghana 19-1, England could not find a breakthrough at Gillette Stadium as both teams remained unbeaten in Group L.
England entered the match after defeating Croatia 4-2 in its opener, while Ghana arrived on the back of a 1-0 victory over Panama.
The result leaves qualification to the round of 32 still undecided heading into the final round of group matches.
England, which has never lost to an African nation at the World Cup, controlled much of the contest but struggled to convert its superiority into goals.
Harry Kane, who scored twice against Croatia to move level with Gary Lineker as England’s all-time leading World Cup scorer, was denied several times and came closest late in the match.
In the 86th minute, substitute Nico O’Reilly headed against the crossbar before Kane collected the rebound, only to send his effort over the bar from close range.
Ghana created few opportunities but nearly snatched victory in the 78th minute when Abdul Fatawu won possession and launched a counterattack before finding Prince Adu inside the penalty area. England defender Ezri Konsa recovered to prevent a shot, while Ghana appealed unsuccessfully for a foul.
England enjoyed nearly 60 percent possession during the first half, although Thomas Tuchel’s side managed only a handful of clear chances.
Ghana improved after the break and defended resolutely to secure a valuable point.
The Black Stars have not progressed beyond the group stage since reaching the quarterfinals at the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.
England, quarterfinalists at the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, will conclude Group L against Panama on Saturday in New Jersey, while Ghana faces Panama in Philadelphia.
Both teams remain in strong contention to reach the knockout stage.
Source: Saudi Gazette