World Cup 2026: Thomas Tuchel frustrated as England are held by resolute Ghana

FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 23: Thomas Tuchel, Manager of England, reacts during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match between England and Ghana at Boston Stadium on June 23, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Richard Pelham/Getty Images)England manager Thomas Tuchel expressed his disappointment after his side were held to a 0-0 draw by Ghana in Group L, admitting the Three Lions were frustrated by their inability to convert chances and break down a well-organised Black Stars defence.The Three Lions dominated possession and territory throughout the contest but failed to find a breakthrough, despite creating several late chances. England’s best opening fell to Harry Kane, who blazed over from close range after a rebound fell kindly to him in the closing stages.”Normally, that is a clear goal for us,” Tuchel said when reflecting on Kane’s missed chance.”It’s a big chance and then another chance. It would’ve been deserved. We knew it would be difficult.”The England manager revealed he was not surprised by Ghana’s approach, with Carlos Queiroz’s men sitting deep and defending in numbers for much of the encounter.”They went even more defensive than in the first match; they defended in a 4-5-1. We found our intensity the longer the half went but we couldn’t get the reward.”England finished with 79% possession, 19 shots and an expected goals (xG) figure of 1.28 compared to Ghana’s 0.29. However, the Black Stars’ compact defensive structure repeatedly frustrated the European side, limiting clear opportunities and forcing England into speculative efforts. Ghana’s defenders, led by Jerome Opoku and Jonas Adjetey, produced standout performances to preserve the clean sheet.Tuchel was nevertheless pleased with aspects of his team’s display, particularly their work against Ghana’s dangerous counter-attacks.”We were very good at defending the counter-attacks for most of the match. We have to pay a huge amount of attention to that. Subs were very good.”The result leaves both England and Ghana on four points after two matches and still in strong positions to reach the Round of 32. England came closest to winning when substitute Nico O’Reilly struck the crossbar before Kane squandered the rebound, while Ghana remained a threat on the break through Antoine Semenyo and Prince Adu.Looking ahead, Tuchel refused to focus on permutations or future opponents.”On what to expect for the game against Panama? I have no idea. Panama is in four days.”England now turn their attention to their final group match against Panama, while Ghana face Croatia in a potentially decisive clash as both nations chase qualification for the knockout stages.



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