By Kris Gonzo | Senior West Ham Columnist (Follow on X)
England should find their passage into the knockout stages of the World Cup relatively comfortable after beating Croatia 4-2 in a match which was often high on goals but low on quality.
On the face of it, it may look like England ran out convincing winners, but for much of the game there was only ever one goal in it.
That said, the Three Lions were a much better side in the second half.
Top-class performances from captain Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham and Elliott Anderson were enough to give England the upper hand.
However, it wasn’t until Anthony Gordon and Noni Madueke were replaced by Bukayo Saka and Marcus Rashford that Thomas Tuchel’s side really began to stretch their legs.
Madueke Selection Still Baffles
Quite how Madueke made it into the England squad ahead of West Ham’s Jarrod Bowen is anyone’s guess.
And certainly his inability to control the ball played its part in Jude Bellingham’s goal.
To his credit, though, he did win the penalty for England’s opener when Luka Modrić appeared to kick him in the nuts.
Defence Remains A Concern
It will be in central defence where Tuchel will be most concerned.
Both of Croatia’s goals were completely avoidable.
John Stones, who was something of a surprise inclusion, found himself on his backside in the build-up to the first.
Reece James was very much caught ball-watching for Croatia’s beautifully crafted second goal, one which Jordan Pickford would probably save under normal circumstances.
Stones’ selection ahead of Marc Guéhi was unexpected and I do wonder if Tuchel will revert to what I consider to be his best centre-back.
Job Done
Ultimately, England have negotiated what should prove to be the toughest game of the group.
And with three points safely in the bag, it should hopefully now be plain sailing into the knockout rounds.
I think Croatias second goal was offside didn’t even get a VAR investigation, we should have won 8-2
I agree with you about defence Stones is not a defender and nothing will convince me otherwise, Guehi is a defender and we looked more solid when he was on.
Also agree about Madueke and would add Rashford, he scored a goal but could have had 3 looks a yard off the pace.
It will be a surprise if we don’t beat Panama and Ghana both of whom are average and I expect Croatia to beat both also.
Bowen was shattered and ran out of steam at the end of the season. Gutted for him he missed out, but from West Ham’s perspective it’s good news he gets to chill and recharge.
Tuchel does not have a handbrake and with the heat I’m pleased we have quality players with pace to step it up when needed.
Rogers, Rashford and Saka against tired legs is a very nice situation to be in.
Agree on our defence. France looked vulnerable in the first half, Spain gave away opportunities and Germany also don’t look solid at the back.
Interesting times ahead. 🏴