England vs USA: What are the key battles as the Three Lions look to earn qualification

England and USA will be continuing their journey in the World Cup 2022 on Friday. Here are some of the key individual battles to look out for.

England players celebrate a goal, Credit: Twitter/@FIFAWorldCup
By annirudh bhalla | Nov 25, 2022 | 3 Min Read follow icon Follow Us

The biggest football tournament in the world, the FIFA World Cup 2022 in Qatar, is already underway. It is a unique competition because this is the first World Cup to be held in the winter. The levels of suspense and mystery, however, remain the same as before. The campaign guarantees a tonne of exciting action, fantastic goals and plays, and a tonne of precious memories at the conclusion.

Read More: Brazil vs Serbia: Talking Points as the Selecao begin their 2022 World Cup campaign with a 2-0 win

England will be coming up against USA in both the sides’ second match of the tournament at the Al Bayt Stadium. The English are fresh off a 6-2 thrashing of Iran and will look to carry on in that fashion. As for USA, they let the lead slip in the game against Wales and consequently find themselves in a must win position. Here are some of the key individual battles to look out for in the fixture.

Bukayo Saka vs Sergino Dest

The English front line consists of several star names including the likes of Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling, Jack Grealish. However, Bukayo Saka has really burst on to the scene in recent times. The Arsenal winger was the star of the show against Iran with a wonderful brace. Limiting him time and space will be crucial to USA’s chances in the game.

The US defensive line’s most well-known player is Sergino Dest. The United States received a huge boost when the right back was recently cleared to play in the World Cup. Walker Zimmerman and Aaron Long, two more seasoned players, will be by his side in the defence. Dest, however, is a player to keep an eye on because of his capacity to get forward and provide a threat during transitions.

Harry Maguire vs Christian Pulisic

Harry Maguire is undoubtedly the leader of the England defence. As much for his struggles at Manchester United, Maguire is a completely different player for the National Team. That was evident in the opening game against Iran where Maguire shut down all of Iran’s attacks and was even productive in attack, providing an assist.

Christian Pulisic continues to have the biggest impact on the team even though Tyler Adams, has been selected captain of the USA National Team. The nation’s hopes rest heavily on the shoulders of the youthful, pacy winger who has been making waves across the world for some time. USA will rely on their offensive strength, of which Pulisic is a crucial component.

Jude Bellingham vs Weston McKennie

Among all the experienced campaigners in the England squad, 19-year old Jude Bellingham has really established himself as one of the key starters. The young midfielder with his energy, reading of the game and goal threat provides an all round package for the English. His form will be crucial for England heading further into the tournament.

Recently, Weston McKennie was also cleared to compete in the World Cup. The US midfield will benefit from McKennie’s new perspective. Since joining Juventus in 2020, he has played a crucial role in the midfield. He will undoubtedly play a significant role for the USA in the crucial portion of the pitch.





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