England got off to the perfect start with a 6-2 win in their World Cup opener against Iran, whilst USA fumbled a lead to take a point against Wales. The two go head-to-head on Friday night in Qatar as the battle to progress from Group B heats up.
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England vs USA
Friday 25th November, 7pm
Al Bayt Stadium, Al Khor
Live on ITV
England vs USA Football Preview
England ran riot against an unimpressive Iran, but Friday’s game will undoubtedly be a far greater test. Gareth Southgate will have taken positives from the creativity that carved open Iran, but will also be wary of some poor defending which allowed the opposition a couple of clear-cut chances.
It is likely the manager will stick with the same line-up providing everyone is match fit. He has shown a lack of willingness to rotate in prior tournaments. If that is the case, England’s full backs will need to play a far more conservative role. USA pose a real threat in the transition with the pace of Christian Pulisic and Timothy Weah, both of which will look to exploit space in behind and will be willing runners of the channels.
This game will be won and lost in the midfield. USA’s first-half dominance against Wales was afforded due to the control of their midfield three, with Yunus Musah playing a particularly important ball recovery role.
However, Jude Bellingham was arguably the best player on the pitch against Iran. Together with Declan Rice and Mason Mount, England have an incredibly dynamic and industrious trio. If they can dominate the middle third and hold onto the ball, England will have plenty of success against a shaky American backline.
USA collapsed in the second half when Wales took a more direct approach – perhaps something for Southgate to ponder? Harry Kane can occupy the centre-halves and should free up space for England’s inverted wingers. They must nullify the USA transition, but they should win the game if they are able to do so.
England vs USA Odds
USA are massive underdogs at 6.00, with England 1.57 favourites and a draw priced at 4.10. Both teams to score (1.96) seems a strong opportunity to double your stake, with an England win and both to find the net (2.97) also tempting. Among those likely to start, Harry Kane (4.40), Raheem Sterling (7.50) and Bukayo Saka (8.50) lead the odds to open the scoring.
Betting Tips
England win and both to score – 2.97
England have the quality to win, but they didn’t look particularly assured defensively against Iran. USA will provide an even greater attacking threat, with their pacey forwards sure to cause problems in behind.
1st half total goals: over 1.5 – 2.75
Southgate will want his side to get off to a fast start. But we also think USA will prove most dangerous in the opening 45 minutes, before the pressing has drained the legs. These are good odds for a couple of early goals.
Kane first goalscorer – 4.40
Remarkably, England scored six and Kane didn’t find the net. That won’t be a trend that continues. The Three Lions looked dangerous from set-pieces and both full backs showed their crossing quality. It’s only a matter of time before he gets on the scoresheet.
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