World Cup: Ghana’s Black Stars cage Three Lions in Boston
Ghana produced another disciplined display at the 2026 FIFA World Cup on Tuesday night, frustrating England to a goalless draw in Boston and moving a step closer to the knockout stage.
The result leaves both teams on four points in Group L, with qualification still to be decided after the other matchday two fixture between Croatia and Panama.
After edging Panama 1-0 in their opening match, the Black Stars arrived in Boston as underdogs against an England side that had defeated Croatia 4-2. However, Carlos Queiroz’s men once again showed defensive organisation and resilience to deny the Three Lions.
England dominated possession from the opening whistle, controlling 78.8 per cent of the ball, the highest possession figure recorded by a team in a World Cup match since 1966, without managing to score, according to Opta.
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Despite their dominance, Thomas Tuchel’s side struggled to create meaningful chances. Declan Rice fired over from distance early in the game, while the Arsenal midfielder also headed another opportunity wide.
The match produced little excitement in the opening half, becoming the first game at the 2026 World Cup not to record a single shot on target before the interval.
Ghana, who were content to sit deep and absorb pressure, gradually grew into the contest after the break. England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford was forced into action when Prince Kwabena Adu broke through on goal, although the goalkeeper reacted quickly to smother the danger.
England finally registered the first shot on target through Anthony Gordon, but Benjamin Asare comfortably saved his effort.
The Three Lions came closest to breaking the deadlock late in the game. Bukayo Saka’s cross found Nico O’Reilly, whose header struck the crossbar before Harry Kane fired the rebound over the bar.
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The draw extended Ghana’s impressive record against England. The Black Stars remain one of only five national teams that England have never defeated, alongside Saudi Arabia, Algeria, Honduras and South Korea.
England have now drawn their second group match at four consecutive major tournaments, having previously shared points with Scotland at Euro 2020, the United States at the 2022 World Cup and Denmark at Euro 2024.
For Ghana, the result represents another significant step in their campaign, with the Black Stars remaining unbeaten and yet to concede a goal at the tournament.
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