FOXBOROUGH, MASSACHUSETTS – JUNE 23: Thomas Tuchel, head coach of England, arrives prior to the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match between England and Ghana at Boston Stadium on June 23, 2026 in Foxborough, Massachusetts. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)England manager Thomas Tuchel has made two key defensive changes for Tuesday’s World Cup Group L clash against Ghana, with Marc Guehi and Djed Spence coming into the starting lineup in a bid to shore up the backline.The Three Lions opened their campaign with an entertaining 4-2 victory over Croatia in Dallas, but the defence was the obvious weak spot despite the thrilling attacking performance.Guehi replaces John Stones in the heart of defence, while Spence comes in for Nico O’Reilly at right-back. Tuchel is likely managing Stones’ minutes after the Manchester City defender started only five Premier League games last season. Guehi, who was unfortunate to be left out for the first match, now gets his opportunity to stake a claim.Spence impressed after coming on as a substitute late against Croatia and has been rewarded with his first start of the tournament.The full lineup is Pickford; James, Guehi, Konsa, Spence; Anderson, Rice; Madueke, Bellingham, Gordon; Kane.The Ghana threatEngland’s defensive changes come against a Ghana side eager to exploit any weaknesses. The Black Stars boast attacking threats, including Manchester City’s Antoine Semenyo, Athletic Club’s Kamaldeen Sulemana, and captain Jordan Ayew, who is chasing his first World Cup goal.Ghana midfielder Thomas Partey returns to the starting lineup after missing the opening game due to visa issues, adding steel and experience to the Black Stars midfield.Both teams sit on three points after winning their openers, with the winner set to take control of Group L. Kickoff at Boston Stadium is 20:oo GMT.



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