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England vs USA World Cup 2022: Live score and latest updates as England frustrated in goalless first half

England take on the USA in Group B of the World Cup on Friday in Qatar. The Three Lions won their opening game in style against Iran, cruising to a 6-2 victory as Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham, Raheem Sterling and Jack Grealish all on the scoresheet for Gareth Southgate’s side.

Harry Kane has shaken off an injury scare and is fit to play after undergoing a scan on his ankle this week, while Harry Maguire has also declared himself ready to start following an illness. Southgate has therefore named an unchanged team.

England will want to end an unwanted record and claim their first victory over the USA at a World Cup. The USA famously defeated England at the 1950 World Cup, before Rob Green’s error resulted in a 1-1 draw in South Africa in 2010.

The match begins at 10pm local time (7pm GMT) and will be live on ITV. For those in the US, it's 2pm ET/11pm PT and is being broadcast on Fox and Telemundo.

Follow all the action with our live blog below

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

  • England face USA in second match of World Cup 2022 in Qatar

  • 45’ - SAVE! Turner tips Mount’s powerful strike wide (ENG 0-0 USA)

  • 44’ - CHANCE! Good work by Shaw at the byline but Saka shoots over the bar (ENG 0-0 USA)

  • 33’ - CROSSBAR! Pulisic thumps the bar for USA with shot from edge of box (ENG 0-0 USA)

  • 26’ - CHANCE! McKennie blazes glorious opportunity over from 10 yards (ENG 0-0 USA)

  • 10’ - CHANCE! Kane sees shot blocked wide (ENG 0-0 USA)

  • England thrashed Iran 6-2 in opening fixture with Harry Kane fit to start after injury scare

  • USA held 1-1 by Wales in Group B, in first World Cup appearance since 2014

  • Elsewhere in Group B, Wales concede twice late on in 2-0 defeat to Iran

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA - MATCH REPORT

21:55 , Kieran Jackson

By Miguel Delaney at the Al Bayt Stadium:

A performance as unconvincing as the decision to light up the Wembley arch in the rainbow colours.

England’s chances of winning this World Cup right now look as far away as this supposed protest against Qatar’s laws and attitude to LGBTQ+. Such present concerns also had historical echoes. England still haven’t beaten USA in a World Cup match. Much more relevantly, they for long periods looked an inferior team in this dismal 0-0 draw. They had fewer chances and much less impetus and energy.

It means that, far from going and lifting this trophy, England must currently be much more concerned with going out. That is the position Gareth Southgate’s side have now put themselves in.

And while it would take an awful lot for a faltering Wales to turn this group around in the final game and eliminate England, we are talking about a team that went from rampantly putting six past Iran to one barely able to muster a shot on target at the Al Bayt Stadium.

It was reverse alchemy, turning the fine of Monday into water-carrying. The USA can be much more optimistic and played with the requisite enthusiasm.

England booed off after USA draw in latest underwhelming World Cup display

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA - Declan Rice:

21:48 , Kieran Jackson

“We come into this game knowing it was a massive fixture. It wasn’t an easy game. Not scoring one of those chances in the first-half killed us a bit, but it’s a point.

“They had a fluid midfield - it’s one of those ones in game where you learn. It’s not about the performance at all - we want to win the game, I don’t remember them putting us under that much pressure.”

England 0-0 USA? Well, that was bad

21:42 , Kieran Jackson

By Mark Critchley at the Al Bayt Stadium

I believe that that was bad. Not Nice bad. Not Cape Town bad. Certainly not Belo Horizonte in 1950 bad. But be in no doubt, after the fluidity and free-scoring of Monday’s opening game and the hope that England’s struggles since the turn of the year could be behind them, this was a return to stodgy, uninspired, set-piece reliant fare that has pockmarked the Gareth Southgate era, and it was bad.

Southgate warned that this would be a very different game compared to Iran. He was right about that. But he also predicted that it would be played at “100 miles an hour” and that his players would have to be at it from the first whistle. If that was the type of contest he was expecting, he expected wrong, and perhaps that misreading of the challenge that the United States posed was at the root of England’s below-par performance.

Long passages of the first half resembled the vision of this sport from the States’ most popular and successful cultural export. Halfback passed to centre, back to wing, back to centre, centre held it. Held it. Held it. John Stones ended the first half with the most touches of any player on the pitch, while Harry Maguire and Kieran Trippier were not too far behind. England’s build-up did not get off the ground floor.

A bright start – with Kieran Trippier regularly finding avenues for Bukayo Saka to attack down the States’ left – devolved into a slow, ponderous performance. Jude Bellingham, so impressive against Iran, regularly found himself crowded out, suffocating England’s progression through midfield. The United States ended the first half and started the second as the stronger of the two sides.

The momentum only shifted when Southgate elected to make a substitution. Jordan Henderson was joined by Jack Grealish, whose tendency to square up against opponents and change the pace of play offered something that England’s frantic, wasteful play in the final third had missed. It was not enough, though, and arguably too late in the day to fully affect things anyway.

England 0-0 USA? Well, that was bad

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA - Gareth Southgate:

21:32 , Kieran Jackson

“Exactly the sort of game I thought it would be. Good opponent, very athletic. Really pleased with how we applied ourselves, our quality in the final third could’ve been better but we’ve showed great resilient.

“We didn’t quite have that same zip. This is tournament football, we’re not going to go through everybody without having nights like this.

On no Foden: “The wide players were Marcus and Jack ahead of Phil, Jack keeping the ball up the pitch and Marcus’ speed in that last part of the game.”

“For me, silver medal today was a point. It puts us in a strong position for qualification, we’ve got three games to do it. We win and we top the group.”

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA - Harry Maguire:

21:25 , Kieran Jackson

“Not our best, we had to work hard out there. We could have been a bit more clincal. There were some positive parts but also the things we need to improve on.

“World Cup games are tough. They’re all top teams who play in this World Cup - we weren’t as clinical or ruthless in the final third. But we have good forwards in this team...

“They put us under pressure, especially at the start of the second-half... “

 (AP)
(AP)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA - player ratings:

21:12 , Kieran Jackson

England were held to a frustrating draw by USA at the World Cup as Gareth Southgate’s side missed the opportunity to book their place in the knockout stages.

Harry Kane had an early shot blocked but it was the USA who had the two best chances of the first half. Weston McKennie blazed over from inside the box before Christian Pulisic rattled the crossbar with a superb shot from the angle.

England continued to struggle in the second half and were made to defend a series of corners as the USA pressed for what would have been a deserved opener. England threw on Jack Grealish and Marcus Rashford but they were unable to make an impact.

England face rivals Wales in their last fixture of Group B, while the USA and Iran are also all still able to advance.

Here are how the players rated.

England vs USA player ratings as Kieran Trippier and Bukayo Saka struggle

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA - pundit quotes

21:06 , Kieran Jackson

Gary Neville:

“It was poor, we’re all disappointed. Just sometimes that midfield didn’t click tonight, we looked tired at times. I was disappointed not to see Foden - for me that talent is huge. For Foden not to come off the bench was interesting.”

Roy Keane:

“The subs that did come on didn’t really have an imapct. England looked leggy, short on ideas, you never felt they had a goal in their locker from set-pieces. A terrible performance.”

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:59 , Kieran Jackson

England captain Harry Kane, speaking to ITV:

“It wasn’t our best performance for sure. Didn’t quite have it - great clean sheet, puts us in a great position in the group.

“Today we had two or three good opportunities and didn’t quite put it away.

“They pressed really well, we knew before the game they’d come out. A draw puts us in a great position, we look forward to the next one.

“We know we can play better than that - it’s a draw at a World Cup. It’s not going to be a landslide against every team we play, a point isn’t what we came here for but it puts us in a good position.”

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:53 , Kieran Jackson

FULL-TIME: The end of this contest is greeted with boos around the Al Bayt Stadium!

A goalless draw here! A disappointing display from England, who did not deserve anything more than a point here - and frankly will be satisfied. United States were much the better team.

However, unless England lose by four goals or more to Wales, Gareth Southgate’s men will be through to the last-16.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:51 , Kieran Jackson

90+4 minutes: USA now have their final chance, with Maguire giving away a free-kick frorm a battle in the air.

They’ll lump this one into the box...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:51 , Kieran Jackson

90+3 minutes: Kane heads wide - WHAT A CHANCE!

Shaw swings in another beauty and this time the England skipper is first to it - but he just can’t direct his header on target!

That was the chance!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:50 , Kieran Jackson

90+3 minutes: England and Luke Shaw have another chance here from a free-kick, this time from the left...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:48 , Kieran Jackson

90+1 minutes: Maguire wins the header from Trippier’s delivery - but he can only pump it into the floor and it’s easy for Turner.

Three to go...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:47 , Kieran Jackson

90 mins: Henderson wins a free-kick just inside the American half...

England take it quickly, Henderson crosses, and Moore heads behind.

England corner. Four minutes of added-time...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:45 , Kieran Jackson

87 mins: Rashford receives the ball inside on the right, comes over to the left and has the ball at his feet.

The England sub has the right idea in trying to curl it into the top corner - but it’s comfortably into the hands of Turner.

It’s just not clicked for England tonight!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:42 , Kieran Jackson

85 mins: Shaw whips in an excellent delivery from a free-kick - but no England players is near it!

Five to go. Heading for a goalless draw here.. unless...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:40 , Kieran Jackson

83 mins: Two more changes for the USA: Weah and Wright OFF, Reyna and Sargent ON.

Both starting strikers off the States... settling for a point?

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:39 , Kieran Jackson

82 mins: Henderson’s cross into the box is too high - and Turner collects comfortably.

He’s looked assured has USA keeper Matt Turner. Then again, he hasn’t been overly troubled you’d have to say!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:37 , Kieran Jackson

79 mins: Moore is now up against Jack Grealish and immediately fouls the England winger.

Just over 10 to go - will we have some late drama?!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:35 , Kieran Jackson

77 mins: Kane tries to squeeze a pass through to Saka, but the Arsenal man can’t keep hold of it.

First two subs for USA: Leeds’ Brenden Aaronson comes on for Weston McKennie while Shaquell Moore replaces Sergino Dest.

Dest not happy about being replaced.

Meanwhile for England: Marcus Rashford comes on for Bukayo Saka.

Can he make as quick an impact as he did on Monday against Iran?

Still no Foden...

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:32 , Kieran Jackson

74 mins: Stones with no options with the ball at his feet and he lumps it aimlessly up the pitch through to Turner.

Game has hit a lull a bit here; USA have lost their momentum of 10 minutes ago.

England? Still to hit into gear.

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:29 , Kieran Jackson

72 mins: Promising first run by Grealish on the left up against Dest - he skips past him but just has too many men to then beat in the box.

Dest has just gone down with a touch of cramp... looks fine to continue. The USA yet to make a change.

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:25 , Kieran Jackson

69 mins: Raheem Sterling and Jude Bellingham OFF; Jack Grealish and Jordan Henderson ON.

Big surprise that Sterling makes way....

Will that force a change in the swing of this game?

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:24 , Kieran Jackson

68 mins: England still really struggling to push up to the pitch - they’re sitting ridiculously deep given the context of the game!

Henderson and Grealish are ready to come on... who will make way?

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:22 , Kieran Jackson

65 mins: England clear again - Harry Maguire has won virtually every first ball from these set-pieces - and Raheem Sterling wins a free-kick.

Meanwhile, Gareth Southgate is deep in conversation with... Jordan Henderson.

Jack Grealish also getting ready to come on.

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:21 , Kieran Jackson

64 mins: Pickford parries at the corner, but just touches it behind for a corner.

Pulisic now runs over to the other side....

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:20 , Kieran Jackson

63 mins: Mount this time with a clumsy foul on Adams. US with a free-kick in England’s half.

It is ALL USA. England really struggling here...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:17 , Kieran Jackson

60 mins: Another corner for USA, who are being invited almost to attack England’s penalty area!

John Stones is flinging his arms up into the air - he’s not impressed!

England fail to clear their lines from the corner. Corner No 2...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:16 , Kieran Jackson

59 mins: Pulisic allowed to cut in from the left and take a shot, deflected behind.

Jordan Pickford not impressed with his team-mates, who look a bit lackadaisical out there!

Maguire does well to head away with a US player lurking behind him...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:15 , Kieran Jackson

57 mins: Weah makes a smart dart into the box but his pull-back is well anticipated by Bellingham, who has been fairly anonymous so far out there.

When will Gareth Southgate make a change? Phil Foden, anyone?

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:11 , Kieran Jackson

54 mins: Luke Shaw comes together with Timothy Weah and the American comes off worse, clutching his foot.

Looks to be fine though...

England still looking a little leggy in midfield; plenty of space for the United States to play in!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:09 , Kieran Jackson

52 mins: Space opens up down the right for Bukayo Saka with Robinson out of position - but USA captain Tyler Adams does brilliantly to tackle.

Big celebrations from Adams too - quite right!

 (The FA via Getty Images)
(The FA via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:06 , Kieran Jackson

49 mins: Quick counter-attack from USA!

Wright cuts in from the left and his shot is blocked... but no England player can get out quick enough to McKennie, yet he blazes his shot over!

Not much change in the momentum so far!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:02 , Kieran Jackson

SECOND-HALF: We’re back underway!

No changes at the break. Big room for improvement for England...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

20:02 , Kieran Jackson

The players are back out at the Al Bayt Stadium.

England players out second; USA in a huddle on the pitch.

Big second-half in Al Khor...

World Cup 2022: Wembley arch lit up in rainbow colours for England vs USA World Cup game

19:58 , Kieran Jackson

The Wembley Stadium arch was lit up with rainbow colours during England’s World Cup meeting with USA in Qatar on Friday night.

The captains of seven nations, including England and Wales, had been due to wear the rainbow-coloured anti-discrimination ‘OneLove’ armbands at the World Cup this week, a country where same-sex relationships are criminalised. However, the plans were dropped when it became apparent in the hours before England’s first match of the finals against Iran on Monday that sporting sanctions would be imposed.

It is understood a booking to the captain wearing the band would have only been the starting point of the sanctions, with Harry Kane, Gareth Bale and the other five skippers also set to have been prevented from entering the pitch wearing it.

Germany protested against Fifa’s stance by covering their mouths for a team photo before their match against Japan on Wednesday, to highlight how they felt silenced. Wales have said they will not protest before their match against Iran on Friday, and England continued to take the knee against United States on Friday evening.

Wembley arch lit up in rainbow colours for England vs USA World Cup game

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA - pundit quotes!

19:55 , Kieran Jackson

Roy Keane, speaking on ITV:

“England look off it, giving it away from the back. USA have got a grip of this and have been neat and tidy. Big half-time team talk for Gareth. Bit of a reality check, need to liven up.

“They’ve not been closing down as a team. Get back to the basics, too many spaces out of possession.

Ian Wright:

“We’ve not been quick enough. Not enough times have we passed the ball at pace. When we play it quickly, that’s how we get at them.

“Sometimes Mason Mount is going across too quickly, leaving space. We just have to get tighter with our pressing.

Gary Neville:

“We’ve had way too many passes at the back between Stones and Maguire. USA are brighter and sharper, we didn’t really get anything right. We’re lucky. It was a massive wake-up call that first-half.

“For Phil Foden not to be playing is a real shame, he’s our most talented player.”

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:48 , Kieran Jackson

HALF-TIME: All-square at the break but, frankly, England are lucky not to be behind!

The USA have had the majority of the chances and came closest with Christian Pulisic’s rifling the crossbar!

England have had a few openings too, through Kane and Saka, but the US will be the more satisfied of the two teams.

Work to do for Gareth Southgate’s men at the interval...

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)
 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:46 , Kieran Jackson

45+1: Shaw this time plays in Mason Mount who strikes brilliantly towards the corner... but Matt Turner does well to get down low to his right and tip it round the post!

Turner claims from the subsquent corner.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:45 , Kieran Jackson

45 mins: Bit brighter from England!

Luke Shaw does brilliantly to beat two men down the left and his pull-back finds Bukayo Saka who can’t quite divert his attempt goalwards as it sails into the stands!

Where has that been in the last half-an-hour?!

Only one added minute at the end of the first-half...

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:42 , Kieran Jackson

43 mins: Dest crosses this time for Pulisic, who glances wide with his header!

Tricky chance this time, but he was first to the ball again!

England need half-time...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:41 , Kieran Jackson

41 mins: Sergino Dest is surging down the right up against Harry Maguire in the box but the England defender does enough... JUST!

It deflects behind for another USA corner - which Maguire heads away once more.

USA now firmly on top.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:39 , Kieran Jackson

39 mins: Harry Maguire heads solidly clear and England get out of their own box.

Just over five minutes until the break and you get the feeling Gareth Southgate will a word or two to say at half-time...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:38 , Kieran Jackson

39 mins: Indecision in the England back-line after a long-throw by McKennie into the box.

USA corner...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:36 , Kieran Jackson

36 mins: England wasteful in the final-third in the last few minutes, with Mount lofting a cross into the penalty area - claimed by Turner.

The USA keeper then launched a kick down the pitch to Pulisic, with Stones having to come across to cover.

The United States have had the better of this first-half so far..

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:33 , Kieran Jackson

33 mins: USA hit the crossbar!

Again, it’s all a bit easy for the United States. They switch the ball from right to left and Christian Pulisic rifles a left-foot shot onto the crossbar and behind!

Fierce strike - very unlucky for the American winger!

England a little shaken here....

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:31 , Kieran Jackson

32 mins: Mount wins - rather luckily - a free-kick off McKennie, with the England midfielder going down clutching his face.

Bit much that, Mason.

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:29 , Kieran Jackson

29 mins: Tricky few minutes for England.

Musah this time pops a shot off from long-range - but it deflects off Rice nicely into the hands of Pickford!

A bit too easy for the United States to break out of their defence though... and once they do, they’ve got plenty of space and numbers up in attack!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:26 , Kieran Jackson

26 mins: Big chance squanderred by USA’s Weston McKennie!

Yunus Musah finds the midfielder (who got away from Declan Rice) with a cross in the box - but he smashes it over first-time on the half-volley!

BIG let-off for England!

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:24 , Kieran Jackson

24 mins: Raking diagonal ball from Harry Maguire finds Raheem Sterling down the left... but he can’t get the better of Dest!

USA clear their lines. Concerted England pressure again now...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:20 , Kieran Jackson

20 mins: While England do have the majority of possession, the United States are getting bodies forward on the break!

Dest’s cross from the right isn’t quite on the money, with Pickford claiming at the back post.

Luke Shaw gave away the ball cheaply there...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:17 , Kieran Jackson

17 mins: First potent attack from USA now!

Striker Haji Wright is first to the cross in the box, beating Maguire to it, but he can only head comfortably wide of Jordan Pickford’s goal!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:14 , Kieran Jackson

14 mins: Kane tries a Richarlison!

Saka’s cross is deflected up into the air and just as the England captain looks to pull the trigger with an acrobatic effort... USA midfielder Weston McKennie manage to get a head to the ball!

England now firmly on top!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:11 , Kieran Jackson

11 mins: Harry Maguire does brilliantly to keep the ball in on the far side after the corner is originally cleared, before Mason Mount has a speculative effort from long-range and it goes way into the stands!

First real signs of promise from England though!

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:10 , Kieran Jackson

10 mins: First BIG chance for Harry Kane!

It’s a terrific one-two between Bellingham and Saka down the right, with the Arsenal man feeding the captain in the box - but his goalbound shot is blocked by Walker Zimmerman!

Corner...

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:07 , Kieran Jackson

6 mins: Hesitant start from England. Maguire pulls a pass wide of Luke Shaw on the left-hand side

USA are pushing right up on the centre backs, playing a much higher line than Iran did on Monday...

The Three Lions yet to get out of their own half really!

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:04 , Kieran Jackson

4 mins: US left back Antonee Robinson surges down the left-hand side but Kieran Trippier does well to deflect the ball off the American defender.

USA have had the majority of the ball so far, in fact...

World Cup 2022: England 0-0 USA

19:02 , Kieran Jackson

2 mins: An early nervy kick-out from US goalkeeper Matt Turner, gifting England possession with a throw-in - but the US break out well.

Luke Shaw with an early foul the other way...

England 0-0 USA

19:00 , Kieran Jackson

KICK-OFF: We’re underway at the Al Bayt Stadium!

England with their first unchanged starting XI in 53 games - can they deliver another convincing three points in Qatar?

The England XI take the knee prior to the referee’s whistle.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA - A reminder of the starting XIs tonight!

18:59 , Kieran Jackson

England XI: Pickford, Trippier, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Bellingham, Rice, Mount; Saka, Kane, Sterling

USA XI: Turner; Dest, Ream, Zimmerman, Robinson; Adams, Musah, McKennie; Weah, Wright, Pulisic

England vs USA commentators: Who are ITV pundits at Qatar World Cup?

18:57 , Kieran Jackson

England are taking on USA at the World Cup in Qatar tonight as they look to build upon their impressive 6-2 victory over Iran on Monday.

Every World Cup game from Qatar is being shown live in the UK on either the BBC or ITV, with England’s second match on ITV and across all the broadcaster’s streaming platforms.

That means the game will be soundtracked by ITV’s commentary ‘A-team’ of Sam Matterface and Lee Dixon – and the people on the microphone always divide opinion.

Analyst Dixon made over 450 league appearances for Arsenal before turning to punditry.

Lead commentator Matterface primarily appears on ITV but also commentates on TalkSport radio.

England vs USA commentators: Who are ITV pundits at Qatar World Cup?

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

18:55 , Kieran Jackson

The teams are out at the Al Bayt Stadium to a chorus of noise from the terraces!

Now time for the national anthems!

 (AFP via Getty Images)
(AFP via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA - Gareth Southgate, speaking to ITV:

18:53 , Kieran Jackson

On picking same starting XI as Iran: “It’s never straightforward because you’re wondering if you should refresh things. But if I was a player I’d think I’d earned the right, I think we’ve done the right thing.

On USA: “They put you under a lot of pressure, it’ll be a different tempo of game. We have to find the solutions to play through them.

“We’ve got to be positive in the way that we play, the beauty of a World Cup is that we have to overcome different challenges. It’s a great prize if we can win tonight but a very different sort of challenge.”

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

18:50 , Kieran Jackson

We’re just 10 minutes away from this clash at the Al Bayt Stadium in Al Khor - which hosted the opening game of the tournament!

England can qualify for the last-16 with a win, while the USA will be looking to provide a shock!

No rainbow armband for Harry Kane. But, meanwhile:

World Cup 2022: England vs USA - Jude Bellingham profile:

18:46 , Kieran Jackson

Jude Bellingham’s hometown proud of the lad who practised so much he wore the grass out:

As England’s teenage football hero Jude Bellingham returns to the pitch in Qatar on Friday, friends and neighbours in his hometown of Stourbridge in the West Midlands are bursting with pride.

And none more so than his former primary school caretaker, who used to fetch the player’s lost ball down from the roof when he was a boy.

“It seemed to be a daily occurrence,” Mark Williams tells The Independent. “You could tell then he was quite a good little footballer and he was destined to be.”

“He did seem to do that more than any other child. It became a joke. Every day the ladders were out. I kept them on standby because of that reason.”

He adds: “He was a very pleasant lad. He always asked you to get the ball down nicely.”

Bellingham, 19, scored the opening goal for England as the team kicked off the Qatar World Cup with a 6-2 win against Iran this week.

This made the midfielder only the second teenager – after Michael Owen – to score for the Three Lions at a World Cup.

Jude Bellingham’s neighbours, teachers and friends reveal what he was like growing up

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

18:45 , Kieran Jackson

Roy Keane on Jude Bellingham, speaking on ITV:

“He’s dynamic, he gets forward. We saw his goal the other day. He looks like its easy for him, very mature. He looks like a footballer, talented boy. Great stage now at 19 years of age. He’s still a child but his future, my goodness, if he keeps his feet on the ground.

Gary Neville:

“I think we should get carried away. They’re like leaders at 19, he’s got everything. Can run forward, if you were making the perfect midfield player you’d say that’s almost him.”

Ian Wright:

“He’s that player who’s comfortable receving the ball anywhere. He could be the one.”

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

18:39 , Kieran Jackson

The players are out warming up at the Al Bayt Stadium!

A reminder that Harry Kane is fit to start despite that ankle problem, while Harry Maguire makes his 50th England appearance this evening!

What a stage for it too!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)
 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

18:34 , Kieran Jackson

Jordan Pickford is hoping England get fair treatment from officials after boss Gareth Southgate said he was “worried” that his side had been used as an example during pre-World Cup referee meetings.

England were denied what looked like a clear spot-kick when Harry Maguire was grabbed by Rouzbeh Cheshmi early on in their 6-2 win over Iran on Monday.

The VAR decided not to intervene but later alerted the referee to a tug on a shirt in the England box which resulted in Mehdi Taremi scoring a last-gasp penalty, while a similar offence resulted in a spot-kick in Argentina’s shock defeat to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Jordan Pickford hoping England get ‘fair’ treatment from referees

World Cup 2022: A reminder of the starting XIs tonight!

18:28 , Kieran Jackson

England XI: Pickford, Trippier, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Bellingham, Rice, Mount; Saka, Kane, Sterling

USA XI: Turner; Dest, Ream, Zimmerman, Robinson; Adams, Musah, McKennie; Weah, Wright, Pulisic

 (The FA via Getty Images)
(The FA via Getty Images)

World Cup 2022: England captain fit to play against USA after scan all clear

18:26 , Kieran Jackson

England boss Gareth Southgate has confirmed captain Harry Kane will return to training on Thursday ahead of the World Cup clash with the United States after his ankle scan came back all clear.

Kane suffered a knock to his right ankle after a clumsy challenge by Morteza Pouraliganji in England’s 6-2 win against Iran on Monday – the national team’s biggest ever win at the start of a major tournament.

The Spurs striker, who has a history of ankle problems, did play on for 25 minutes but was seen limping after the game and went for a precautionary scan.

But the 29-year-old received the green light to train on Wednesday, with the official England Twitter account sharing a photo of him in training accompanied by the caption “skipper” and a fist emoji.

Harry Kane fit to play against USA after scan all clear

World Cup 2022: England vs USA - PREVIEW

18:21 , Kieran Jackson

Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney’s big match preview from Doha

As England began to play the ball around against Iran, they felt something different.

“Definitely a click,” John Stones said of the 6-2 win. “Or a desire to put things right. We had come out of a bad period.”

They can now look through to the other side. England scored more goals against Iran than they did in the entire Nations League campaign. The reality, however, was that it was a step up from Gareth Southgate’s general style rather than just the last eight months.

“I guess people wouldn’t expect us to be like that having watched us for a couple of years and the style of football we play,” the manager acknowledged. “Maybe we regressed to the norm.”

The challenge now is to make it the norm, and illustrate it was not partly a product of the disarray that Iran are in; that England have announced their credentials.

After turning a corner, England now look for World Cup momentum against the USA

World Cup 2022: Who is England vs USA official Jesus Valenzuela?

18:14 , Kieran Jackson

Jesus Valenzuela is the referee of England’s match against the USA at the World Cup tonight.

The Venezuelan is taking charge of his first match at the World Cup after being selected as one of 36 referees at the tournament in Qatar.

The 39-year-old is considered to be one of the top referees in South America - taking charge of matches in the Copa America, Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana and South American World Cup qualifiers.

He referees professional in Venezuela’s top flight, where he took charge of nine matches before the league paused for the World Cup.

In those matches, however, Valenzuela showed red cards in seven of them, as well as an array of yellow cards.

Who is the referee of England vs USA at the World Cup?

World Cup 2022: QATAR ARE OUT OF THE WORLD CUP!

18:08 , Kieran Jackson

BREAKING NEWS: Netherlands’ 1-1 draw with Ecuador in Group A means that Qatar - the hosts - are out of their own World Cup after just two matches!

Netherlands and Ecuador are joint-top of Group A with four points, with Senegal on three points.

The first time the host nation has ever been eliminated from the World Cup after just two games!

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

England fans set for bans if they wear crusader replica costumes at Qatar World Cup

18:02 , Kieran Jackson

England fans will be barred from Friday’s match in Qatar against the United States and future World Cup games if they wear crusader replica costumes which are considered culturally insensitive in a Muslim country, FIFA has said.

England supporters have used imitation chain-mail armour, plastic helmets and toy weapons as a fancy dress for games for years.

But images of some fans dressed as crusaders at Monday’s 6-2 win over Iran in the Qatari capital Doha were criticised online, prompting the sport’s world governing body to crack down on the costumes.

“These costumes in an Arab or Middle Eastern context can be perceived as being offensive so that’s the reason for them not being permitted in stadiums,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

For many Arabs, the word crusade summons up a painful history of violent invasion by Christians seeking to capture Jerusalem and nearby areas under Islamic rule in the 11th to 13th centuries.

Issues around culture and rights have been in focus almost as much the soccer at the World Cup in Qatar.

Some Wales fans were ordered to remove hats with the rainbow colours of the LGBT community at their team’s first match of the tournament against the United States earlier this week.

Same-sex relations are illegal in Qatar.

Welsh football authorities said on Thursday that FIFA had confirmed that supporters with rainbow-coloured hats and flags would be allowed entry to the stadium for Wales’ match against Iran on Friday, which Wales lost 2-0.

The captains of England, Wales, Belgium, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Germany and Denmark this week dropped their plans to wear armbands to back gay rights under pressure from FIFA.

 (PA)
(PA)

England to play Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy in Naples

17:50 , Jack Rathborn

England’s opening Euro 2024 qualifier against Italy will take place in Naples.

The Italian Football Federation confirmed the Group C campaign will begin at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium on March 23.

The Azzurri, who beat England at Wembley on penalties to win Euro 2020, will return to play in Naples almost 10 years after the 2014 World Cup qualifying fixture against Armenia.

It had been expected the tie against England would take place in Bari, but renovation works at the Stadio San Nicola meant a different location was needed.

The choice of venue, though, will raise some safety concerns for travelling England fans following issues experienced in European club fixtures against Napoli.

Roberto Mancini’s side did not qualify for the World Cup in Qatar, having been knocked out of the play-offs by North Macedonia, but impressed in the Nations League campaign, finishing top of Group A3 while England were relegated.

In September, Italy beat England 1-0 in their Nations League match at the San Siro.

Ukraine, North Macedonia and Malta make up the rest of the Euro 2024 qualifying group, with the top two sides set to reach the finals in Germany.

Team news: England unchanged to face USA

17:47 , Kieran Jackson

England XI: Pickford, Trippier, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Bellingham, Rice, Mount; Saka, Kane, Sterling

USA XI: Turner; Dest, Ream, Zimmerman, Robinson; Adams, Musah, McKennie; Weah, Wright, Pulisic

Gareth Southgate opts for an unchanged line-up to face the USA - an unchanged side for the first time since the 2018 World Cup!

While Gregg Berhalter has gone for Haji Wright over Josh Sargent.

 (Getty Images)
(Getty Images)

Gareth Southgate: England players putting country on the map at World Cup

17:40 , Jack Rathborn

Gareth Southgate believes England players are “putting the country on the map.”

After many disappointing outcomes at tournaments, Southgate believes the Three Lions are capable of producing a “sustained challenge”.

“We feel that we can be competitive for years to come and that has to be the aim really, to have a sustained challenge in the latter stages on the big competitions, we haven’t done that for years and years,” Southgate said.

“These players are putting our country on the map really. They are regaining our respectability on the world stage and we have got to keep doing that.”

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

17:28 , Kieran Jackson

England will qualify for the World Cup knockout phase if they beat the United States on Friday.

Here is a closer look at the side standing in the way of Gareth Southgate’s men.

United States in focus: What awaits England in Friday’s World Cup clash?

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

17:15 , Kieran Jackson

England were denied what looked like a clear spot-kick when Harry Maguire was grabbed by Rouzbeh Cheshmi early on in their 6-2 win over Iran on Monday.

The VAR decided not to intervene but later alerted the referee to a tug on a shirt in the England box which resulted in Mehdi Taremi scoring a last-gasp penalty, while a similar offence resulted in a spot-kick in Argentina’s shock defeat to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

FIFA referees committee chairman Pierluigi Collina had singled out England during a pre-tournament briefing - also open to the media - showing a clip of Kalvin Phillips blocking to create space in the box for Maguire to score in England’s 5-0 World Cup qualifying win over Albania last year.

The Italian said such a goal would be disallowed at the World Cup and Southgate said after the Iran win that he was “worried” about the potential ramifications of England being the team highlighted ahead of the finals and that he would seek “dialogue” with FIFA.

Asked on the eve of the Group B clash with the United States if that dialogue had started, he replied: “We put a report in. We haven’t heard anything back as yet.

“There was obviously a penalty given the next afternoon, so whether that was a consequence of our game being reviewed by the referees or not...it’s hard to say. But we haven’t had a response yet.

“The concern is the consistency. We know what we’ve got to do right and we know we risk being punished for certain things.

“I think for all the teams in the tournament, there is a worry when you’re not quite sure what’s going to be given and that uncertainty on the field and from the VAR as well.”

 (PA Wire)
(PA Wire)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

16:58 , Kieran Jackson

England will qualify for the World Cup knockout phase if they beat the United States on Friday.

Ahead of the Group B clash in Al Khor, here are five of the main talking points.

England vs USA: Talking points ahead of Group B clash at World Cup

World Cup 2022: Wales 0-2 Iran - MATCH REPORT

16:44 , Kieran Jackson

By Richard Jolly in Qatar:

“Don’t take me home” became an anthem of Wales in 2016 but the danger is they will soon be booking their flights.

The latest of late drama felt a fatal blow to their hopes of extending their stay in Qatar, goals in the 98th and 101st minutes earning Iran the victory they thoroughly deserved but which thanks to a combination of the uprights, the most marginal of offsides and some inspired goalkeeping, they seemed set to be denied.

Yet Wayne Hennessey’s day will not be remembered for his stops from Sardar Azmoun and Saeid Ezatolahi, crucial as they seemed at the time.

Iran strike late to leave Wales on the brink after Hennessey red card

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

16:29 , Kieran Jackson

John Stones has known Harry Maguire for almost two decades and revealed the pair often share jokes over texts - meaning the Manchester City defender was in “no doubt” that his England team-mate would find his form at the World Cup.

The two centre-backs may cross the Manchester divide, with Maguire captaining Manchester United, but they are long-time friends and have built a fine understanding at the heart of Gareth Southgate’s defence.

Maguire has been dropped by United recently and was also jeered by a small section of England fans earlier in the year.

But Southgate kept his faith in the 29-year-old and it was repaid with a fine display in the 6-2 win over Iran on Monday before Maguire went off with illness.

“First of all, no doubt at all,” Stones replied when asked if Maguire would settle in with England despite his club form.

“Harry hasn’t played much at his club, but to come in and play like he did - I don’t think anyone saw a bit of rust on him.

“That’s great credit to him and I’m so happy for him and everyone who played. As a player you want and need to be playing and have a good rhythm. But for him to come in to play as he did is credit to him.”

John Stones has faith in his partnership with Harry Maguire (PA Archive)
John Stones has faith in his partnership with Harry Maguire (PA Archive)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

16:12 , Kieran Jackson

Jordan Pickford is hoping England get fair treatment from officials after boss Gareth Southgate said he was “worried” that his side had been used as an example during pre-World Cup referee meetings.

England were denied what looked like a clear spot-kick when Harry Maguire was grabbed by Rouzbeh Cheshmi early on in their 6-2 win over Iran on Monday.

The VAR decided not to intervene but later alerted the referee to a tug on a shirt in the England box which resulted in Mehdi Taremi scoring a last-gasp penalty, while a similar offence resulted in a spot-kick in Argentina’s shock defeat to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Jordan Pickford hoping England get ‘fair’ treatment from referees

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

15:59 , Ben Burrows

England and six other federations feared that their captains could have been issued a red card, and that there was essentially “unlimited liability”, had they worn the OneLove armband in their opening World Cup matches.

There wouldn’t even have been the prospect of an iconic photo, as any sanction would have been administered before the teams set out onto the pitch. It was for this reason that the federations were keen to take the decision out of the players’ hands, and not put them under any pressure.

The relatively small gesture of the armbands - a protest against Qatar’s laws and attitude to LGBTQ+ groups - has become one of the biggest issues in a hugely controversial World Cup. The German federation have already accused Fifa of “extreme blackmail” in discussions, and there was a genuine fear that it could have seen players such as Harry Kane, Virgil van Dijk and Gareth Bale suspended.

England feared red card for those wearing OneLove armband at World Cup

World Cup 2022: England captain fit to play against USA after scan all clear

15:42 , Kieran Jackson

England boss Gareth Southgate has confirmed captain Harry Kane will return to training on Thursday ahead of the World Cup clash with the United States after his ankle scan came back all clear.

Kane suffered a knock to his right ankle after a clumsy challenge by Morteza Pouraliganji in England’s 6-2 win against Iran on Monday – the national team’s biggest ever win at the start of a major tournament.

The Spurs striker, who has a history of ankle problems, did play on for 25 minutes but was seen limping after the game and went for a precautionary scan.

But the 29-year-old received the green light to train on Wednesday, with the official England Twitter account sharing a photo of him in training accompanied by the caption “skipper” and a fist emoji.

Harry Kane fit to play against USA after scan all clear

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

15:30 , Kieran Jackson

Gareth Southgate has not ruled out his England team making a gesture to highlight human rights concerns at the Qatar World Cup but says they will not be pressured into doing so.

The German team covered their mouths for the team photo before their opening World Cup match against Japan on Wednesday, while the Australia squad released a video highlighting issues in the host country.

Seven European nations competing at the World Cup – including Germany, England and Wales – planned to wear OneLove anti-discrimination armbands during the tournament, but were dissuaded from doing so following the threat of sporting sanctions from Fifa.

Southgate, whose team face the United States in their second match on Friday, said: “I don’t think we should feel any pressure – I think we’ve spoken on these particular topics for over a year and we’ve supported all manner of good causes either as individuals or the collective.”

Gareth Southgate: England won’t be rushed into matching Germany protest

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

15:15 , Kieran Jackson

As England began to play the ball around against Iran, they felt something different.

“Definitely a click,” John Stones said of the 6-2 win. “Or a desire to put things right. We had come out of a bad period.”

They can now look through to the other side. England scored more goals against Iran than they did in the entire Nations League campaign. The reality, however, was that it was a step up from Gareth Southgate’s general style rather than just the last eight months.

“I guess people wouldn’t expect us to be like that having watched us for a couple of years and the style of football we play,” the manager acknowledged. “Maybe we regressed to the norm.”

The challenge now is to make it the norm, and illustrate it was not partly a product of the disarray that Iran are in; that England have announced their credentials.

Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney’s big match preview from Doha:

After turning a corner, England now look for World Cup momentum against the USA

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

14:58 , Kieran Jackson

As England’s teenage football hero Jude Bellingham returns to the pitch in Qatar on Friday, friends and neighbours in his hometown of Stourbridge in the West Midlands are bursting with pride.

And none more so than his former primary school caretaker, who used to fetch the player’s lost ball down from the roof when he was a boy.

“It seemed to be a daily occurrence,” Mark Williams tells The Independent. “You could tell then he was quite a good little footballer and he was destined to be.”

“He did seem to do that more than any other child. It became a joke. Every day the ladders were out. I kept them on standby because of that reason.”

He adds: “He was a very pleasant lad. He always asked you to get the ball down nicely.”

Bellingham, 19, scored the opening goal for England as the team kicked off the Qatar World Cup with a 6-2 win against Iran this week.

This made the midfielder only the second teenager – after Michael Owen – to score for the Three Lions at a World Cup.

Jude Bellingham’s hometown proud of the lad who practised so much he wore the grass out:

Hometown pride for ‘lovely’ Jude Bellingham who practised so much he wore grass out

World Cup 2022: Who is England vs USA official Jesus Valenzuela?

14:39 , Kieran Jackson

Jesus Valenzuela is the referee of England’s match against the USA at the World Cup tonight.

The Venezuelan is taking charge of his first match at the World Cup after being selected as one of 36 referees at the tournament in Qatar.

The 39-year-old is considered to be one of the top referees in South America - taking charge of matches in the Copa America, Copa Libertadores, Copa Sudamericana and South American World Cup qualifiers.

He referees professional in Venezuela’s top flight, where he took charge of nine matches before the league paused for the World Cup.

In those matches, however, Valenzuela showed red cards in seven of them, as well as an array of yellow cards.

Who is the referee of England vs USA at the World Cup?

World Cup 2022: What time does England vs USA kick off today?

14:22 , Kieran Jackson

England know a second straight victory at the World Cup will see them qualified from Group B, following their clinical showing in the win over Iran.

Opponents this time are United States, who themselves drew with Wales - though Gregg Berhalter’s side will no doubt be ruing the fact they were so dominant in that game early on and failed to make their superiority count sufficiently to take all three points.

USA know that although a defeat would make matters difficult, they still have Iran to face in their final game - seemingly the weakest of the quartet, with four points potentially enough to go through depending on results elsewhere.

Bukayo Saka’s brilliant showing in the Three Lions’ opener surely means he’ll retain his place, with perhaps only injuries likely to see Gareth Southgate change his line-up.

When is England vs USA?

The Group B match will kick-off at 7pm on Friday, 25 November at the Al-Bayt Stadium in Al Khor.

What time does England vs USA kick off today?

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

13:16 , Jamie Braidwood

England will qualify for the World Cup knockout phase if they beat the United States on Friday.

Here is a closer look at the side standing in the way of Gareth Southgate’s men.

United States in focus: What awaits England in Friday’s World Cup clash?

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

13:01 , Jamie Braidwood

England will qualify for the World Cup knockout phase if they beat the United States on Friday.

Ahead of the Group B clash in Al Khor, here are five of the main talking points.

England vs USA: Talking points ahead of Group B clash at World Cup

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

12:44 , Jamie Braidwood

Iran’s football players sang their national anthem before facing Wales at the World Cup on Friday - after refusing to sing the anthem in their opening match against England earlier this week.

Iran’s fans booed and jeered the national anthem but unlike against England, the team’s players did not stay silent and sang the words of the anthem.

The initial protest against England was a significant act of defiance and unity with anti-government protesters following weeks of violent protests in Iran, sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody in September.

While the players sang the anthem before their match against Wales, the TV coverage of the match showed pictures of distraught Iran fans in the crowd at the Ahmad Bin Ali Stadium in Qatar.

Iran strike late to leave Wales on the brink after Hennessey red card

12:32 , Jamie Braidwood

“Don’t take me home” became an anthem of Wales in 2016 but the danger is they will soon be booking their flights. The latest of late drama felt a fatal blow to their hopes of extending their stay in Qatar, goals in the 98th and 101st minutes earning Iran the victory they thoroughly deserved but which thanks to a combination of the uprights, the most marginal of offsides and some inspired goalkeeping, they seemed set to be denied.

Yet Wayne Hennessey’s day will not be remembered for his stops from Sardar Azmoun and Saeid Ezatolahi, crucial as they seemed at the time.

Report from Wales vs Iran by Richard Jolly

Iran strike late to leave Wales on the brink after Hennessey red card

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

12:31 , Jamie Braidwood

Harry Maguire is away with England at a fascinating time for Manchester United, with the Glazer family announcing on Tuesday they were willing to sell just hours after Cristiano Ronaldo’s contract was mutually terminated.

The skipper says he has found it easy to focus on national team matters despite there being “a lot of talk going off around the club”, and interestingly used his now former team-mate as an example for coping with flak.

“Of course as a footballer nobody likes being criticised, but I think it’s part and parcel of the game,” said Maguire, who feels fine after being substituted against Iran as he was feeling unwell.

“I’ve played with Cristiano Ronaldo for the last couple of years and he’s one of the greatest players ever to kick a football and he gets criticised day in, day out.

“So, if it’s going to happen to him and the position I’m in, I think it’s part and parcel of the game, especially the position that I’m in playing for Manchester United and the captain of Manchester United.

“With Cristiano playing and me being around him over the last couple of years, he’s the greatest player, for me, to ever kick a football and he gets criticised daily so it’s going to happen to each and every one of us.

“So, it’s part and parcel of the game. It’s something that you’ve got to go into training, do your best and that’s what I always tell myself. Just go in and do your best and that’s only what you can do.”

 (PA Wire)
(PA Wire)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

12:16 , Jamie Braidwood

Harry Maguire says his self-belief never wavered amid poor performances and widespread criticism, although the England defender admits his lack of game time had him a little concerned over his World Cup place.

Last year the 29-year-old bounced back from an ankle injury to star during the run to the Euro 2020 final, earning himself a place in the team of the tournament.

But things have gone awry since then, with a wretched season for all involved with Manchester United followed by the captain enduring a challenging start to the current campaign.

Dropped after Erik ten Hag lost his first two matches in charge, the centre-back has only made seven more club appearances - a period that also saw him laid low by injury.

Those struggles led to questions over Maguire’s place in the World Cup squad and the defender admits there was a part of him, however small, that was concerned he would not make Gareth Southgate’s selection.

“Obviously being picked for your country is a huge privilege,” he said ahead of winning his 50th cap in Friday’s World Cup group game against the United States.

“It’s the pinnacle of anybody’s footballing career to play at major tournaments for your country, World Cups especially. It’s the biggest tournament in the world.

“Obviously you have fear of (not) being in a squad, but I had great belief over what I have done over the 49 caps I’ve played for England that I’ve earned the trust to be in the squad and be available for the team and the selection.”

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

12:01 , Jamie Braidwood

England were denied what looked like a clear spot-kick when Harry Maguire was grabbed by Rouzbeh Cheshmi early on in their 6-2 win over Iran on Monday.

The VAR decided not to intervene but later alerted the referee to a tug on a shirt in the England box which resulted in Mehdi Taremi scoring a last-gasp penalty, while a similar offence resulted in a spot-kick in Argentina’s shock defeat to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

FIFA referees committee chairman Pierluigi Collina had singled out England during a pre-tournament briefing - also open to the media - showing a clip of Kalvin Phillips blocking to create space in the box for Maguire to score in England’s 5-0 World Cup qualifying win over Albania last year.

The Italian said such a goal would be disallowed at the World Cup and Southgate said after the Iran win that he was “worried” about the potential ramifications of England being the team highlighted ahead of the finals and that he would seek “dialogue” with FIFA.

Asked on the eve of the Group B clash with the United States if that dialogue had started, he replied: “We put a report in. We haven’t heard anything back as yet.

“There was obviously a penalty given the next afternoon, so whether that was a consequence of our game being reviewed by the referees or not...it’s hard to say. But we haven’t had a response yet.

“The concern is the consistency. We know what we’ve got to do right and we know we risk being punished for certain things.

“I think for all the teams in the tournament, there is a worry when you’re not quite sure what’s going to be given and that uncertainty on the field and from the VAR as well.”

Gareth Southgate has not ruled out making further gestures regarding human rights in Qatar (Jonathan Brady/PA) (PA Wire)
Gareth Southgate has not ruled out making further gestures regarding human rights in Qatar (Jonathan Brady/PA) (PA Wire)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

11:44 , Jamie Braidwood

John Stones has known Harry Maguire for almost two decades and revealed the pair often share jokes over texts - meaning the Manchester City defender was in “no doubt” that his England team-mate would find his form at the World Cup.

The two centre-backs may cross the Manchester divide, with Maguire captaining Manchester United, but they are long-time friends and have built a fine understanding at the heart of Gareth Southgate’s defence.

Maguire has been dropped by United recently and was also jeered by a small section of England fans earlier in the year.

But Southgate kept his faith in the 29-year-old and it was repaid with a fine display in the 6-2 win over Iran on Monday before Maguire went off with illness.

“First of all, no doubt at all,” Stones replied when asked if Maguire would settle in with England despite his club form.

“Harry hasn’t played much at his club, but to come in and play like he did - I don’t think anyone saw a bit of rust on him.

“That’s great credit to him and I’m so happy for him and everyone who played. As a player you want and need to be playing and have a good rhythm. But for him to come in to play as he did is credit to him.”

John Stones has faith in his partnership with Harry Maguire (Owen Humphreys/PA) (PA Archive)
John Stones has faith in his partnership with Harry Maguire (Owen Humphreys/PA) (PA Archive)

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

11:29 , Jamie Braidwood

Gareth Southgate warned he expects a different level of opposition from the Americans after England enjoyed a relatively easy opener against Iran.

“I think tomorrow’s game will be very different to the first match,” added Southgate.

“They are a team that press the ball really well, and who have, with respect, probably a level of player that has more experience of playing in top-level European leagues.

“In terms of tomorrow’s game it’s not going to be the pattern of the previous one.”

World Cup 2022: England vs USA

11:16 , Jamie Braidwood

Jordan Pickford is hoping England get fair treatment from officials after boss Gareth Southgate said he was “worried” that his side had been used as an example during pre-World Cup referee meetings.

England were denied what looked like a clear spot-kick when Harry Maguire was grabbed by Rouzbeh Cheshmi early on in their 6-2 win over Iran on Monday.

The VAR decided not to intervene but later alerted the referee to a tug on a shirt in the England box which resulted in Mehdi Taremi scoring a last-gasp penalty, while a similar offence resulted in a spot-kick in Argentina’s shock defeat to Saudi Arabia on Tuesday.

Jordan Pickford hoping England get ‘fair’ treatment from referees

Click here to read the full blog on The Independent's website