England took a huge step towards the knockout stages with their entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia, but Thomas Tuchel will know there is still plenty of room for improvement.
The Three Lions were electric going forward, particularly after half-time, but defensive vulnerabilities were exposed on multiple occasions. With Ghana arriving full of confidence after their dramatic win over Panama, England cannot afford another sloppy display at the back.
A victory in Boston would secure qualification for the knockout rounds, and Tuchel may be tempted to make one or two important adjustments.
There is no debate here.
While Pickford wasn’t heavily involved against Croatia, he remains England’s undisputed No.1. The Everton goalkeeper continues to provide leadership, experience and reliability in major tournaments.
He may not have covered himself in glory for Croatia’s opening goal, but there is no realistic challenger to his position.
Verdict: Starter.
James endured some difficult moments defensively against Croatia, particularly when England were caught out during transitions.
However, his quality in possession and ability to dictate play from deep remain hugely valuable to Tuchel’s system.
Djed Spence impressed from the bench and is pushing hard for opportunities, but James still offers the highest ceiling in the position.
Verdict: Keep faith.
Konsa was not flawless against Croatia, but neither should he be judged on one performance.
The Aston Villa defender enjoyed another excellent domestic campaign and remains England’s most athletic centre-back. His recovery speed will be particularly useful against Ghana’s direct attacking threats.
Verdict: Deserves another start.
This is where Tuchel should make a change.
John Stones looked rusty against Croatia and was caught out for the opening goal after committing himself too early. While his quality on the ball remains unquestioned, England looked vulnerable whenever Croatia attacked directly.
Guehi has been one of England’s most consistent defenders over the last two years and brings greater mobility, aggression and defensive awareness.
Against an energetic Ghana side, his attributes could prove crucial.
Verdict: Guehi replaces Stones.
Hall provided balance on the left flank and looked comfortable in possession throughout much of the Croatia match.
His ability to progress the ball and support attacks gives England an important outlet, particularly with Anthony Gordon operating ahead of him.
Verdict: Unchanged.
Assuming his minor injury concern proves insignificant, Rice remains one of the first names on the teamsheet.
England’s entire structure revolves around his ability to win second balls, break up attacks and progress possession.
Tuchel’s positive post-match update suggests Rice should be available.
Verdict: Start if fit.
Anderson grew into the Croatia game and produced one of the moments of the match with his superb assist for Jude Bellingham.
His energy, pressing and willingness to play forward make him an ideal partner for Rice in Tuchel’s midfield setup.
Verdict: Keep his place.
England’s game-changer.
Bellingham once again demonstrated why he is one of the most complete midfielders in world football, scoring a vital goal and influencing play throughout the second half.
Everything positive England produced seemed to involve him.
Verdict: Undroppable.
Madueke justified his inclusion against Croatia with an energetic display that constantly stretched the opposition defence.
With Bukayo Saka still being carefully managed, there is no need to rush the Arsenal star back into the starting XI.
Verdict: Reward his performance.
Gordon’s relentless running and direct approach created problems throughout England’s opener.
While Marcus Rashford made a major impact from the bench, Gordon’s ability to press aggressively from the first whistle remains important.
Verdict: Start again, with Rashford as the impact substitute.
Two goals, another record equalled and a captain’s performance.
Kane remains England’s focal point and continues to show no signs of slowing down. His movement, link-up play and finishing were all on display against Croatia.
Ghana’s defenders will have their hands full.
Verdict: First name on the teamsheet.
Pickford; James, Konsa, Guehi, Hall; Rice, Anderson; Madueke, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.
The biggest decision is at centre-back, where Guehi’s pace and defensive reliability could provide the stability England lacked against Croatia. If Tuchel gets that balance right, the Three Lions should have enough quality to secure qualification and take another step towards World Cup glory.
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