England vs Ghana Preview: Team News, Form and Key Battles

England head into their second World Cup group game full of confidence after making the perfect start, but opponents Ghana have already shown they will be no pushovers after opening their campaign with a hard-fought victory.

The Three Lions came through a thrilling encounter with Croatia, securing a 4-2 win that sent an early statement to the rest of the tournament. Despite a few defensive concerns, Thomas Tuchel’s attacking approach was clear to see, with England’s forward players causing constant problems throughout the match.

Harry Kane continued to show why he remains one of the world’s most reliable finishers, while Jude Bellingham and Marcus Rashford also found the net as England matched their famous 1966 World Cup final scoreline against West Germany.

The victory over Croatia was England’s first World Cup win against a top 15 ranked opponent in nine matches, and the performance showed why they are among the leading contenders to lift the World Cup.

Now sitting top of Group L on goal difference, another victory against Ghana would secure England’s place at the top of the group and extend their winning run under Tuchel to four matches.

Ghana, however, arrive with their own confidence after beginning their tournament with a narrow but important 1-0 win over Panama.

‘The Black Stars’ were made to work for their victory, with the game looking destined to end goalless until 20-year-old Caleb Yirenkyi produced a moment of quality in the 94th minute. After a quick counter-attack, the youngster kept his composure to score the goal that moved Ghana within touching distance of a first World Cup knockout appearance since 2010.

While goals have been harder to come by for Ghana recently, their defensive improvement will give them belief heading into this meeting. They have already matched England’s position in the group, knowing another win would guarantee a place in the next round before their final match against Croatia.

The two nations have only met once before, with England held to a 1-1 draw by Ghana in 2011. Andy Carroll gave England the lead in that friendly before Asamoah Gyan levelled the score, and the Black Stars will be hoping they can once again frustrate one of the tournament favourites.

Team News

England received a boost ahead of the match, with Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Declan Rice all returning to training after concerns following the win over Croatia.

Saka made an impact from the bench against Croatia, setting up Rashford’s goal, but Tuchel is expected to continue with Noni Madueke on the right side of the attack. The England boss also has a decision to make in defence after mistakes from Ezri Konsa and John Stones contributed to Croatia’s goals, with Marc Guehi pushing for a place in the starting lineup.

There is also uncertainty over Ghana goalkeeper Lawrence Ati Zigi, who was forced off at half time against Panama with discomfort. While Ghana’s coaching staff remain hopeful, reports have suggested he could miss the match, meaning Benjamin Asare may be called upon.

With both sides knowing victory would secure their place in the knockout stages, England vs Ghana promises to be another important test for Tuchel’s side and a chance for the Three Lions to prove their early tournament momentum is built to last.