England were held to a goalless draw by Ghana in World Cup 2026 Group L, with the African side's defence proving impenetrable. Anthony Gordon and Elliot Anderson struggled to make an impact, while Ghana's Jerome Opoku and Jonas Adjetey were outstanding at the back.
England Player Ratings
Jordan Pickford (5): A spectator for the first half but was very lucky to escape further punishment after bringing down Prince Adu.
Reece James (6): A bright start before needing lengthy treatment after being clattered by Jordan Ayew. Faded badly.
Djed Spence (5): Surprise choice to replace Nico O'Reilly at left-back, the Spurs man didn't do anything to justify his selection.
Marc Guéhi (6): Slotted back into England's back four in place of John Stones, his range of passing adds so much.
Ezri Konsa (5): Superb tackle to deny Antoine Semenyo in a dangerous position, although could easily have conceded a penalty.
Declan Rice (7): Back to his marauding best during the first 20 minutes but was noticeable how England dropped off after that.
Elliot Anderson (5): Far too slow in possession. Has to be much more proactive with his forward passing.
Noni Madueke (6): Caused Ghana problems with his directness but lacks quality with the final pass.
Jude Bellingham (6): Effort can't be faulted on his 50th cap but couldn't summon the cutting edge he showed against Croatia.
Anthony Gordon (4): Clever dummy early on to start a move but little else of substance. Place must be seriously under pressure.
Harry Kane (6): Only managed eight touches in an uncharacteristically quiet first half. Should have buried late rebound.
Subs: Saka (7), O'Reilly (6), Rogers (6), Eze (5), Rashford (6).
Ghana Player Ratings
Benjamin Asare (6): First keeper from Ghana's league to start a game for them at a World Cup didn't have much to do.
Marvin Senaya (6): Caught out by Djed Spence and Anthony Gordon in early stages but settled down and spurned good chance.
Gideon Mensah (7): Struggled to cope with twin threat of Reece James and Noni Madueke to start with, grew in confidence as game went on.
Jerome Opoku (8): A giant of a man who proved he is no mug with the ball at his feet either. England couldn't find a way through him.
Jonas Adjetey (8): Organiser in chief of the defence. Plays club football for Wolfsburg but looked a world beater.
Caleb Yirenkyi (7): After his late winner against Panama, another impressive from the emerging star of Ghana's midfield.
Thomas Partey (7): Marshalled Ghana's midfield superbly and made sure that Kane's influence was kept to a minimum.
Kwasi Sibo (7): Ran his socks off for the cause and produced a crucial block to stop Elliot Anderson scoring from corner.
Antoine Semenyo (7): Clear that England were wary of the threat he posed. But will be frustrated not to have had a clear sight of goal.
Jordan Ayew (7): Put himself about as per usual. The Leicester man loves a bit of rough and tumble.
Iñaki Williams (6): The Athletic Bilbao forward fulfilled his defensive duties but didn't get much chance to show his attacking skills.
Subs: Fatawu (6), Adu (7), Oppong (6).
