Gareth Southgate will look to build on the solid showing against Iran when they take on the USA in the second group game at Al Bayt stadium on Friday evening. England sent out a message to the other countries involved in the tournament with a convincing thrashing of Iran while the USA could only draw with Wales.
The England win against Iran has heightened expectations and the Three Lion’s record at major tournaments is quite impressive with just defeat to Belgium the one they have suffered in 90 minutes in 15 games.
England have also won eight of their last 11 meetings with the USA and with young stars like Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka all emerging- it is looking like a tournament the Lions could enjoy.
Jude Bellingham in particular opened the scoring against Iran and looked like a world beater everytime he was on the ball and Saka has carried his early season form from Arsenal into the World Cup. Both are tipped to go all the way.
Perhaps the only downside to England’s win against Iran was the injury scare Harry Kane faced and when Harry Maguire looked to have felt something but both are now back and should start as Southgate looks to get momentum and keep the team grounded.
The USA have managed to qualify from the group stage in their last two World Cups and even though they could not get over the line against Wales-they are expected to improve against England even though it’s hard to tell how that can shape up against the Three Lions.
Here is how we expect the Lions to line-up against the USA later tonight.
1. Jordan Pickford
England’s goalkeeper looks like he is in business and hates conceding
2. Harry Maguire
Felt sick but was outstanding and has trained well. Looking to stamp his mark at this tournament.
3. John Stones
The Manchester City man is back starting game for England and was at his best against Iran. Has been really impressive under Southgate.
4. Luke Shaw
England’s left back is back and firing on cylinders