England disappoints against the USA and Iran achieves a historic victory, but Wales survive in World Cup.
The best moment of the World Cup so far took place in the opening match of Group B second fixture. The two goals of Iran’s victory of 2-0, against Wales, caused an enormous commotion through the celebration of the Iranian players.
Roozbeh Cheshmi and Ramin Rezaeian were the scorers of one of the biggest victories in national team football in the 21st century, considering all aspects involving Iran at this moment.
Many discredited Iran after the 6-2 defeat against England, but Carlos Queiroz’s team showed why their team is among the 20 best placed in the FIFA ranking.
In the first half, Iran focused on offensive transitions, seeking to confuse the defence of Wales, which managed to resist well by giving up only one real chance to score.
However, with the additions of Sardar Azmoun and Mehdi Taremi, coach Carlos Queiroz positioned his team in 4-1-4-1, increasing presence in the final third of the field and improving the quality of launches.
On the other hand, Wales suffered from the loss of ball possession at various times in the second half, and the 3-5-2 formation did not result in the expected defensive guarantee in the central midfield with the trio of Ramsey, Wilson and Ampadu.
In addition, VAR’s decisive intervention in the 67th minute was instrumental in the expulsion of goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey, after a dangerous move. Referee Mario Escobar showed him a yellow card, but VAR corrected the decision.
Finally, Gareth Bale had a disappointing performance. In the first half, he failed to recompose the midfield with just 16 touches on the ball. The player’s lack of pace (with just 28 minutes on the field for LAFC in MLS) is hurting his performance in the World Cup.
ENGLAND 0-0 UNITED STATES
In the complement of the second round of Group B, the United States and England were held to a goalless draw. The match didn’t have a lot of action, but it did feature some interesting facts.
The United States were better for the entire match thanks to good individual performances by Pulisic, Adams and McKennie. Also, Matt Turner matched well when tested.
This result was celebrated by the North Americans, who expected greater difficulties against the favourites of the group. However, the US still needs to improve on completion to turn potential into goals.
Another interesting fact was the plan of the North American team, with strength and pressure in the midfield, denial of space to the opponent and an attempt to divide possession of the ball.
On the other hand, Gareth Southgate failed to find collective solutions and England had only one real chance to score, with Harry Kane in the first half.
Musah blocked Bellingham’s move tactically, Saka and Sterling lost duels against Dest and Robinson. Finally, Kane and Mount did not generate offensive movement in the final third, and England left the field with a performance far below expectations.
The draw was fundamental for the Wales team to still believe in qualifying for the round of 16, in a decisive duel against England. In the other match, the USA will need to beat Iran to advance.
