England’s winless record against the United States at the World Cup stretched to three matches following a goalless draw at Al Bayt Stadium.
Gareth Southgate’s side knew they would become the first side to book their spot in the knockout stages with a victory but were unimpressive, with the USA being the better side throughout.
Christian Pulisic came the closest to deciding the match by striking the crossbar in the first half, while England only tested Matt Turner on a single occasion.
Neither side managed to muster much of a threat in the second period, with both sides forced to settle for a point and having work to do in their final matches on Tuesday.
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Opportunities were limited in the early exchanges, Harry Kane seeing an effort deflected wide after fine build-up play from the Three Lions, while Weston McKennie blazed over the bar after finding space in the England box.
The USA put themselves on the front foot as the game progressed, Pulisic coming closest to breaking the deadlock with a fierce drive from outside the area that rattled against the crossbar.
However, England finished the half with their best chance, Mason Mount forcing a diving save from Turner.
The USA continued to be the better side into the second half, though they were unable to create opportunities to truly test Jordan Pickford, with England equally impotent in attack.
The result leaves Group D delicately poised heading into the final round of fixtures, with England’s display a far cry from their prolific showing against Iran.
What does it mean? All to play for
Victory for England would have put Southgate’s side into the knockout stages with a game to spare for the second World Cup in a row, having also won their opening two in Russia to begin their charge to the semi-finals.
For the USA, it would have put them under intense pressure heading into their final game, but instead the door remains wide open in Group B – with Wales likely breathing a sigh of relief after the result.
A point against Wales would be enough for England to qualify, while the USA know they will have to beat Iran.
Kane kept quiet
Having won the Golden Boot with a six-goal haul at Russia 2018, Kane travelled to Qatar looking to become England’s all-time leading goalscorer and the first player to retain the Golden Boot at the World Cup.
Yet the Three Lions skipper has endured a poor tournament so far, as he is still waiting for a first shot on target at the tournament – with zero shots against Iran and two off target against the USA.
USA end two records
Having kept England at bay, the USA have kept a clean sheet at the World Cup against a European nation for the first time since a 1-0 victory over England in 1950 – conceding 32 goals in 18 matches between then.
The result also marks the first goalless draw for the USA at a World Cup, having played 34 matches previously without one, while England have had more goalless draws (12) at the tournament than any other side.
What’s next?
England wrap up their group stage against Wales on Tuesday, while the USA must beat Iran on the same night.
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