England’s qualification for the Euro 2024 knockout stages was automatic as a result of a 0-0 draw with Slovenia. However, the match was not memorable.
Gareth Southgate elected to implement one substitution from the 1-1 draw with Denmark, substituting Trent Alexander-Arnold with Conor Gallagher.
Despite England’s possession of the ball for more than 70% of the match, there was a scarcity of clear-cut opportunities.
What was the athletes’ performance at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne? The following is our assessment of them.
Jordan Pickford – six
He was rarely tested during the 90-minute period, but he responded appropriately when summoned.
Kyle Walker – five
The contest was not significantly affected. In the second half, he attempted to enter the penalty area, but his cross was misjudged. Concluded the game as the left-back.
John Stones – six
He was consistent in his possession and fulfilled his defensive responsibilities when necessary. In the second half, a header that was on its way to the goal was prevented.
Marc Guehi – seven
He attempted to force the issue by shifting into midfield and added an element of composure to England’s play. However, he did receive a yellow card for a pullback in the second half.
Kieran Trippier – five
While endeavouring to ascend the pitch, I was caught off guard on multiple occasions. In the first half, Kane was centimetres away from a superb cross at the back post. I was taken off the pitch with only ten minutes to play after playing through fitness concerns.
Declan Rice – six
His highlight of the first half was a defense-splitting pass to Foden, who was narrowly offside. He is proficient in midfield; however, he is not performing the same function with the same level of skill as he does at Arsenal.
Conor Gallagher – five
A few occasions, the ball was given away at a low cost in the early stages. Although it was Southgate’s sole modification, it failed to result in the desired effect. Interrupted during the interval.
Bukayo Saka – six
He mistakenly believed that he had scored England’s opening goal, only to discover that Phil Foden was offside. The initial half was relatively uneventful; however, the second half was more lively. Kobbie Mainoo’s introduction on the right appeared to be beneficial to him until he was replaced with 20 minutes remaining.
Jude Bellingham – five
Not significantly engaged in the initial phase. Several instances of possession loss were observed, despite the presence of a few pleasant details. Not quite at the same level as his performance in Serbia.
Phil Foden – seven
Early on, the player appeared to be in high spirits, as evidenced by his astute off-ball movements. Driven forward with the ball and demonstrated excellent delivery from set pieces. His most impressive performance of the tournament.
Harry Kane – six
In the first half, he made two long-range attempts but narrowly missed converting a Trippier cross. He is currently experiencing a lack of progress, despite his increased involvement.
Suitable substitutes
Kobbie Mainoo – six
At halftime, he assumed Gallagher’s position and contributed an additional element to England’s midfield. Based on this performance, it is reasonable to anticipate that he will commence in the last 16.
Cole Palmer is six years old.
Fans were clamouring for him to appear in a role. His late effort was saved, and he appeared to have the best opportunity for England. Additional opportunities would be beneficial.
Trent Alexander-Arnold: Unknown
In lieu of Trippier, he concluded the match at right-back, while Walker transitioned to left-back. Although he did offer a long-range shot, there was insufficient time to influence the outcome. Some would argue that he should be reinstated in the team for the final 16.