England vs USA: Predicted lineup, injury news, Head-to-Head

The Three Lions are yet to beat The Yans at the FIFA World Cup.

Gareth Southgate will be pleased with his team's first match in FIFA World Cup 2022, a 6-2 victory, which is exactly how he intended them to begin following a string of criticism for their poor outcomes. England demonstrated why they are among the tournament favourites with a dominant showing and will endeavor to improve on this performance. Individually skilled players have shown cooperation and will remain cohesive in other contests as well.  

After drawing with Wales, the United States require a desperate win. They posed a threat, but tenacious Wales found a way to keep them at bay. USA now face a daunting job in their next match. Although the USA have never succumbed to England in the World Cup, they will have to give their life and soul on Friday if they are to prolong this record.

Kick-off: 12:30 am (IST), 7 pm (GMT)

England form (all competition): D-D-L-L-D-W

USA form (all competition): D-W-D-L-D-D

Players to watch

Declan Rice

Many may wonder why Declan Rice isn't seen in the game. In fact, he does better by remaining less on the ball while ensuring the flow from defence to midfield remains seamless. He likes to drop deep while the side is attacking and is always capable of breaking any opponent's counter-attack. While other midfielders are higher up the pitch, Rice stays at the back and serves as an extra defender. His presence is crucial for England because he keeps the game moving.

Taylor Adams

The Leeds United midfielder must demonstrate his qualities on the field, as it will be a crucial match for the USA. He is the USA's central midfielder who knows how to break down defences and supply the ball to attackers with his exceptional passing range. Adams will have to be at his sharpest against England.

Injury & Team news

During the Iran game, it appeared that Kane had an ankle injury, but sources suggested it was not serious. The England skipper underwent a scan on Wednesday. The 29-year-old has since trained with the England team and is likely to start against the USA. Harry Maguire was substituted following a concussion, but he has since recovered.

Walker, who did not play in the Iran encounter, trained with the team and is likely to start against the United States. On the other hand, Maddison is yet to return from a knee injury and remains doubtful.

In contrast, the USA's Weston McKennie and Yunus Musah walked out of a draw with Wales due to groin and toe problems respectively. However, they trained with the team and will likely play in this vital game.

Head-to-Head Stats

Matches: 11

England: 8

Draw: 1

USA: 2

Predicted lineup

England (4-2-1-3): Pickford; Trippier, Stones, Maguire, Shaw; Rice, Bellingham; Saka, Mount, Sterling; Kane

USA (4-3-3): Turner; Dest, Zimmerman, Ream, A. Robinson; McKennie, Adams, Musah; Weah, Sargent, Pulisic

Prediction  

England will be buoyant and raring for another victory, with the group working well together. Saka, who was magnificent against Iran, will hope to put in another strong performance. England are a dangerous opponent, and the United States' defence will struggle to hold such quality at range. England appears to be the overwhelming favourite and will sweep this match.

Prediction: England 3-1 USA