England set unwanted World Cup record in Ghana draw

England have set an unwanted World Cup record in a frustrating 0-0 draw by Ghana in their Group L match at Boston Stadium on Tuesday.

It is the third consecutive major tournament in which England have drawn their second group game.
England were clearly a dominant team in the match; Thomas Tuchel’s side enjoyed 78.8% possession and attempted 19 shots, three of which were on target, compared to Ghana’s two attempts.

According to Reuters, England’s 78.8% possession against Ghana was the highest in records dating back to 1966 by any side in a World Cup match without managing to score a goal. The Ghanaian team adopted a defensive strategy in the match; they sat deep and had only one shot on target.

In the second half, Harry Kane had the opportunity to put England ahead as he struck the ball low with his left foot from outside the box towards the far corner, and it was comfortably saved by Benjamin Asare.

Ghana had the best chance of the game in the 79th minute. Prince Adu made a run and got past Marc Guehi. Ezri Konsa came back and blocked the shot. It looked dangerous, could have been a penalty and in the end England cleared the danger.

Bukayo Saka, who came off the bench, also forced a great save from Asare in the 86th minute. The Arsenal attacker cut in from the right side and tried to go for the far corner, but the Ghana goalkeeper made another save.

Shortly after Saka’s shot was saved, England regained possession and crossed for Nico O’Reilly to jump highest and head off the crossbar. The ball dropped for Kane to volley home, but he missed one of the easiest chances by lashing it miles over the bar.

England defeated Croatia 4-2 in their World Cup opener thanks to Kane, who scored a brace.
England are top of Group L with four points, Ghana are second on the same points, Croatia are third, and Panama are bottom.