England Player Ratings: Greece Win, Foden Struggles
England secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Greece in their Euro 2024 qualifier, but it wasn't a performance that will inspire confidence. The Three Lions dominated possession and created numerous chances, yet their finishing let them down. Despite the win, several players failed to impress, leaving England fans with mixed feelings heading into their upcoming fixtures.
Here's a breakdown of the England player ratings:
Goalkeeper:
Jordan Pickford (7/10): Pickford was largely untroubled throughout the match. He made a crucial save early on to deny a dangerous Greece attack, demonstrating his composure and anticipation. While not heavily tested, he remained alert and commanded his box confidently.
Defenders:
Kyle Walker (7.5/10): Walker provided the usual dynamic threat down the right flank, consistently overlapping and whipping in crosses. He showcased his defensive solidity too, thwarting several Greek attacks with well-timed tackles.
John Stones (6.5/10): Stones was solid at the back, winning his aerial battles and making key interceptions. He didn't have much room for error against Greece's direct approach, and his passing could have been more incisive at times.
Harry Maguire (6/10): Maguire put in a decent shift, showing his usual composure and leadership. He was comfortable on the ball and won most of his duels against the Greek forwards. While not particularly outstanding, he provided the necessary solidity at the back.
Ben Chilwell (6.5/10): Chilwell struggled to make a significant impact in attack, but he was dependable defensively. He displayed good awareness and provided cover for the backline.
Midfielders:
Declan Rice (7/10): Rice anchored the midfield with his usual composure and efficiency. He won numerous tackles, broke up play consistently, and distributed the ball effectively. His performance was a reminder of his vital role in the England squad.
Jude Bellingham (7.5/10): Bellingham was again one of England's most influential players. He provided energy, dynamism, and created multiple chances with his precise passing. He was a constant threat in the final third and his willingness to press from the front helped England regain possession.
Phil Foden (5/10): Foden struggled to impose himself on the game. He seemed to be lacking confidence and failed to find his rhythm. He missed a couple of good opportunities to score and his passes lacked accuracy.
Forwards:
Bukayo Saka (7/10): Saka was a constant thorn in the side of the Greek defense. He created several chances with his dribbling and was a threat from set pieces. His pace and direct running caused havoc for the Greek defenders.
Harry Kane (7.5/10): Kane was typically involved in the game, playing as a focal point for England's attacks. He scored the opening goal with a trademark header and provided intelligent link-up play. While he could have scored more, his goal was crucial and he spearheaded England's attacking efforts.
Substitutes:
Jack Grealish (6/10): Grealish came on in the second half and brought a spark of creativity to England's attack. He managed to weave his way past Greek defenders and create chances with his mesmerizing dribbling skills.
Callum Wilson (6/10): Wilson came on to add fresh legs up front and provided a good target for the long balls. He had a decent chance to score in the closing stages, but his shot was saved.
Conclusion:
England's victory over Greece was far from convincing. Despite dominating possession and creating numerous chances, their finishing let them down. While there were positive performances from certain individuals like Bellingham, Kane, and Walker, the struggles of players like Foden raise concerns for the future. England will need to improve their efficiency in front of goal and address their lack of creativity in midfield if they want to make a serious impact at Euro 2024.
FAQs:
Q1: Was this a good performance from England?
A: While the win was important, the performance was unconvincing. England dominated possession but lacked clinical finishing and creativity in the final third.
Q2: What was the biggest disappointment from the game?
A: Foden's performance was particularly disappointing, as he was unable to replicate his previous form and struggled to make a significant impact.
Q3: What were the positives from the game?
A: Bellingham continues to impress with his energy, creativity, and overall impact. Kane's goal and influence were vital, and Walker was a constant threat down the right flank.
Q4: What can England improve on before their next game?
A: They need to work on their finishing and create more clear-cut chances. They also need to find a way to unlock defenses that sit deep and defend resolutely.
Q5: How much pressure will be on Gareth Southgate after this game?
A: While a win is always positive, the lackluster performance will raise some questions about England's approach and tactics. Southgate will need to find a way to get the best out of his squad before the next qualifier.
Q6: What are England's next fixtures?
A: England face Ukraine away in their next Euro 2024 qualifier, followed by a friendly match against Scotland.
