England and the USA reached the round of 16
DOHA, 29 November 2022 (WAM) — England won the first-ever meeting between two British nations at the FIFA World Cup, progressing as group winners and knocking Wales out of the competition.
England slipped in the first half of this game, threatening to show the same complacency seen in their goalless draw against the USA, while Wales sat back in fine form and stride, forcing Danny Ward to stop smartly at the feet of Marcus Rashford.
However, the second half was completely different.
Marcus Rashford opened the scoring in this match with a superb free-kick that flew past Danny Ward and the Manchester United striker was again involved as Phil Foden extended their lead. Rashford’s move gave Harry Kane the opportunity to send a low cross straight into the path of Foden.
Those goals forced Wales to respond, with tries from Dan James and Kiefer Moore threatening Jordan Pickford’s goal and giving England the uncertainty they needed.
With just over 20 minutes remaining, Rashford doubled his tally by tapping in at the feet of Ward after a mad run. This put the result beyond reasonable question.
Gareth Southgate was able to rest some of his starters thanks to a few substitutions as England prepare to face Senegal in the last 16.
in another decisive match, the USA team defeated Iran 1-0 to advance to the round of 16 of the World Cup.
Christian Pulisic fired over from close range in the 38th minute, but a heavy collision with goalkeeper Ali Beiranvand left him limping off, and although he managed to wait out the final few minutes of the half, Pulisic was substituted at half-time.
