England exit the World Cup, yet again

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England have yet again been unable to break free of the rut that has seen them unsuccessful in claiming the World Cup title after their only win, in 1966. In their recent attempts, various players have played a key role in England’s knockout loss, including Luka Modric in 2018, Marco Verratti in Euro 2020 and now Antoine Griezmann. In England’s latest 2-1 loss to France, with goals by Olivier Giroud and AurelienTchouameni, the Three Lions were able to come from behind and bring the score to 1-1. This is contrast to their previous encounters, where England has the lead but squandered it against Croatia in the 2018 Russian World Cup in 2018, and against Italy at Euro 2020, where Modric and Verratti dictated their team’s performances.

However, even after equalizing France’s goal, England were unable to contain the problem posed by players like Mbappe and Griezmann. Mbappe, who is known for his pace and dexterity and is the top contender for the Golden Boot with a five-goal lead, had garnered attention as the player England most had to watch out for. Instead, it was Griezmann, who set the team’s pace and played a bigger role in furthering France’s offence and midfield, and the second goal by Giroud was also a result of a pass from Griezmann. England, meanwhile, displayed familiar vulnerabilities including slow play, predictability, and an overall basic game plan.

Among the players who could turn around England’s fortunes are young players such as Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham. Foden plays with Manchester City, and could provide some credible attacks, but has been stationed on the left so far. James Maddison, of Leicester City, could also be allowed to play as the No. 10, but has faced injuries that have set him back. Jack Grealish, has also made only some appearances as a substitute. Coach Southgate has repeatedly demonstrated a preference for safer players, and this has kept many players from reaching their potential. England now head to Euro 2024 next, and fans are hoping that their game will include more creativity, the next time around.