England finished atop World Cup Group L following a goalless draw against Ghana at Foxborough, though the stalemate proved sufficient for both sides to advance to the last 32. The final standings were confirmed after Croatia defeated Ghana 2-1 in Philadelphia, securing second place for the 2018 runners-up and ensuring the Black Stars progressed as one of the best third-placed teams.
Thomas Tuchel’s side dominated possession against Carlos Queiroz’s organised defence but failed to find a breakthrough. The closest chance arrived four minutes from time when substitute Nico O’Reilly struck the crossbar with a header, before captain Harry Kane fired the rebound over from close range.
Tuchel dismisses complacency concerns
The England manager rejected suggestions the performance indicated overconfidence following their opening victory. Tuchel insisted his players remained fully committed despite the flat display, attributing the result to caution rather than arrogance. His side controlled the ball for long periods but struggled to penetrate Ghana’s deep defensive setup.
Jude Bellingham earned his 50th cap during the match, though he became involved in a touchline confrontation with Queiroz at half-time. The Ghana manager revealed he had approached Bellingham to “cool down” following a late tackle on Jerome Opoku. “He swore and that created a bit more tension,” Queiroz said. “But it’s just football.”
Penalty dispute and Croatian resolution
Queiroz argued vociferously that his side deserved a second-half penalty when Ezri Konsa appeared to bring down substitute Prince Kwabena Adu inside the area. “I am not certain VAR is functioning,” he remarked. “It was a clear penalty.”
The group dynamic shifted decisively in Philadelphia, where Croatia’s victory ensured both they and Ghana would progress. Zlatko Dalic’s side took the lead in the 31st minute when Petar Sucic fired low from 30 yards through defender Marvin Senaya’s legs.
Ghana equalised in the 73rd minute when Derrick Luckassen turned Ernest Nuamah’s free-kick into the net, a decision confirmed after VAR review. However, Croatia restored their advantage 11 minutes later when Luka Modric, who became the oldest player to register an assist at a World Cup, delivered a corner that Nikola Vlasic converted from close range.
Final standings and knockout path
The results confirm England as group winners, setting up a last-32 tie against an opponent from Group K. Croatia finish second and will face the runners-up from that same section. Ghana’s defeat did not prevent their progression to the knockout rounds for the first time since 2010, though they must now prepare to face the winners of Group K, either Colombia or Portugal.
Panama exit the tournament without scoring, while the results confirmed Scotland’s elimination from the competition.