Football or Soccer?
By Louie Russo Brownlie
The Three Lions face the US in a critical match with the latter needing a surprise win to keep Group B in the balance.
Gareth Southgate’s England on the other hand will be looking for another comprehensive victory to go with their 6-2 demolition of Iran in their opening game. A win could also provide with early qualification to the knockout rounds.
USA will no doubt provide a tougher test however and will feel a little unfortunate that they do not sit level on points with England at the top of group B after Gareth Bale’s late penalty denied them victory.
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The big news leading up to the fixture surrounds England captain Harry Kane who picked up an injury in the second half against Iran, a scan will revel to what extent his ankle was damaged.
If Kane is unable to start the contest it is likely he will be replaced by Callum Wilson who impressed of the bench in matchday one. His willing running and unselfishness provided a goal for Jack Grealish, who also provides a different attacking option for Gareth Southgate.
America do not have the luxury of a fully fit squad either with injury worries surrounding midfield paring Yunus Musah and Weston McKennie, both missing out would provide a real problem for the US.
Other than the above-mentioned injury scares it is likely to be exactly as you were with both teams putting out similar elevens to their opener. England will look to dominate the ball with the US sitting in their defensive shape and taking the opportunity to spring a counter act when it comes.
Potential match winners:
England – Jude Bellingham
At just nineteen the former Birmingham youngster has established himself as one of the best midfielders in Europe. With years of experience already in both the German and Champions League Bellingham already has the composure of a seasoned international. With his ability to arrive in the box at just the right moment and the confidence of getting off the mark against Iran, the teenager has a real chance of being a star performer.
USA – Timothy Weah
Any true fan of football or ‘soccer’ will need no introduction to the second name Weah. Son of former Ballon d’Or winner George Weah, Timothy showed real moments of quality in the opener against Wales. His perfectly timed run and eloquent finish showed the Americans have a really promising goal scorer on their hands. Weah’s blistering pace combined with his attacking prowess could really cause issues for England on the break.