League: EPL Sport: Soccer Country: England Category: Scores & Results

England struggles defensively despite strong World Cup start against Croatia

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jun 22, 2026, 7:05 AM

Last updated Jun 22, 2026

England struggles defensively despite strong World Cup start against Croatia

Summary

England secured a 4-2 victory against Croatia in their World Cup opener on June 21 in Arlington, Texas. Despite a strong offensive showing, concerns over the defense have surfaced, as the team allowed two goals in the first half. With three defenders making their World Cup debuts, including Reece James and Ezri Konsa, head coach Thomas Tuchel faces pressure to adjust his defensive strategy against tougher opponents. England's next match is against Ghana in Boston, where a win would guarantee progression to the knockout stage as group winners.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

Status Watch

•England defeats Croatia 4-2 in World Cup opener
•Defensive lapses raise concerns ahead of next match
•Three defenders made their World Cup debuts
•Next match against Ghana determines group progression
•England needs a win to advance as group winners

Latest Updates

7:05 AMYahoo Sports — Tuchel's England face defensive questions despite flying start at World Cup

What they're saying

"
England's much-vaunted attack clicked impressively in their opening World Cup win over Croatia, but defensive fears linger as they attempt to seal a place in the knockouts on Tuesday.Three members of the back four -- the injury-prone Reece James, Ezri Konsa and 21-year-old Nico O'Reilly -- were making their World Cup debuts against Croatia.
— Yahoo Sports

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