England held to goalless draw against USA in second World Cup game
A frustrated England were held to a goalless draw against the USA in their second World Cup match.
Gareth Southgate’s men currently top Group B with four points following their earlier win against Iran.
England had an early chance in the first half when Bukayo Saka sent the ball to Harry Kane in the box from 10 yards, before the captain’s low finish was blocked by the USA’s Walker Zimmerman.
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The USA had the most chances in the first half, nearly scoring at 32 minutes when Christian Pulisic hit the crossbar, though England finished the first half strong when Mason Mount made an intelligent run into the box, striking a first-time effort that was palmed behind by USA goalkeeper Matt Turner.
The second half was a nerve-wracking affair for England fans, with the USA continuing to put Southgate’s men under pressure several times until Jack Grealish came on and injected some energy into England’s attack.
Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford attempted to test the USA’s defence after Kane played him a fine ball, but there was no intent in the strike and it was an easy save.
England missed out on a big chance late on after a last-minute effort from Kane saw his header from Luke Shaw’s free-kick go wide.
Speaking after the game, Kane said: “It wans’t our best performance. We had some good spells but didn’t quite have the final product today. Great clean sheet, puts us in a great position in the group.
“Just needed to be clinical, a complete contrast to Iran. Today we had two, three good opportunities but didn’t put them away.
“We know we can play better than that, but it is a draw in a World Cup – no game is easy. I think after the first game people thought we’d landslide every team we’d play but that is not the case.”
The Three Lions opened their campaign with a convincing victory over Iran and will aim for another three points when they face Wales on Tuesday.
Wales looks unlikely to get out of the group after losing to Iran earlier today 2-0 and a 1-1 draw against the USA last Monday.
All four teams can still qualify from Group B, with England needing to avoid a 4-0 loss in their final match against Wales on Tuesday night to qualify for the knockout phase.