The English also failed to impress as they drew 0-0 against the excellent USA

England and USA played out a 0-0 draw in Group B on Friday evening. The Americans in particular made a strong impression with the high intensity and beautiful performances of striker Christian Pulisic (24) and midfielder Weston McKenney (24). After the big win against Iran the English couldn’t impress again (6-2) and left with a point. Only a heavy defeat against Wales could prevent them from reaching the next round.

England national coach Gareth Southgate played well at the start of the game. In the ninth minute, striker Harry Kane (29) had his first big chance after a good combination down the right flank. His shot was blocked. Then America played. McKenney shot a great chance and Pulisic hit the crossbar from a difficult position. The Americans were tougher than their high-profile opponent, as was Ecuador against the Netherlands.

In the second half, the United States were the better team, but England’s attacking play was suppressed. Both countries failed to create good chances and therefore goals. For the twelfth time in history, the England national team drew 0–0 at the World Cup; This is a first for the US. A politically charged match between the USA and Iran – who beat Wales 2-0 earlier in the day – will determine which of the two nations advances to the round of 16.

This article is part of our live blog: A weak Netherlands managed a draw against Ecuador