World Cup: Group B Matchday Two Review
England 0-0 USA
Exceeding media expectations with a stylish 6-2 win over Iran, a win in this match would have granted England qualification to the Round of 16 with a game to spare.
USA’s return to the World Cup was less exciting after a late collapse meant they shared the spoils with Wales.
As strong favourites, the pressure was on England going into this game, but they never really got going, creating almost nothing. Albeit playing at a much higher intensity than England, the USA side also struggled to create dangerous chances with Christian Pulisic’s crossbar being the only thing to trouble Jordan Pickford.
Many fans were left baffled as Gareth Southgate decided against bringing on Phil Foden with his side struggling for creativity, instead relying on Mason Mount for the full 90 minutes.
After conjuring up nothing memorable, the England side were met with boos at full-time from fans in the stadium and videos circulating of fan zones around Qatar, in what was a much-needed wake-up call for this England team.
The USA will take great heart into their match against Iran after a couple of strong performances in their opening two games, despite not managing to record a win as of yet.
A draw was a fair outcome for both sides and means they must wait until matchday three to find out where their fate lies in this competition.
Star Man: Harry Maguire
Often scrutinised, Maguire didn’t put a foot wrong for his side and was rewarded with a clean sheet for his efforts. Effective on both sides of the pitch for his country, Maguire managed to grab a shot on target when chances were limited and strong play on the left wing in the first half also helped England keep the pressure on the USMNT.
Harry Maguire also showed a strong defensive display as with eight clearances, he was vital in keeping the score at 0-0.
Wales 0-2 Iran
Coming into the match off the back of a 6-2 humbling at the hands of England, Iran still had much to be positive about with two goals from FC Porto’s Mehdi Taremi showing that they can find the net if given the opportunity.
Wales also had reason to approach this game with confidence after finding the resolve to earn themselves a point in their opening game against USA.
This game had high-stakes for both sides as a loss would result in swift elimination for Iran and barring a shock victory over England, would also spell the end of the road for Wales.
The match played out like most meaningful matches do, a cagey affair, but Iran were always on the front foot. The new additional minutes rule was Wales’ biggest downfall with ‘keeper Wayne Hennessey receiving a red card, resulting in 12 additional minutes being added on.
Managing to keep the match at a stalemate until injury time, Wales faced an unfortunate collapse as goals in the 98thand the 101st minute gave Iran a much-deserved victory.
This result leaves all to play for in matchday three. A draw for Iran against USA will be enough to see them qualify for the last 16 unless Wales record a 4-0 win over England. In addition, Wales must beat England and hope other results go their way if they are looking to get through the group.
Star Man: Mehdi Taremi
Scorer of both goals against England, Taremi didn’t manage to get on the scoresheet against Wales, but he was vital in getting his side a much-needed win. With an assist for Ramin Rezaeian’s goal in the dying minutes, he caused the Wales defence problems for the full match.