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Talking Points: Can any team thwart England's prowess from set-pieces?

Published at :July 7, 2018 at 9:50 PM
Modified at :December 13, 2023 at 1:01 PM
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(Courtesy : FIFA Media)

Atrayo Bhattacharya


The Three Lions scored another goal from a corner as they advanced to the World Cup semis.

Gareth Southgate's England marched on to the semi-finals of the FIFA World Cup after beating Sweden 0-2. A first half header from Harry Maguire and second half goal from Dele Alli wrapped up a rather one-sided affair for the Three Lions. England will play Croatia or Russia in the semi-final on Wednesday

5. England have been clinical from set-pieces

The Three Lions have made opposition pay whenever they have been handed set-pieces. Southgate's men look like scoring from every opportunity they get from corners and free-kicks. Maguire's thumping header was a great example of how clinical England iare from set-piece scenarios.

Having a limited and pretty inexperienced squad has not stopped the Three Lions from reaching the last four of this World Cup, as they now look like strong contenders for the crown.

4. Southgate has answered his critics in style

After Sam Allardyce's departure, Southgate was given the responsibility to take this relatively young English side to Russia. The former England international was met with a lot of criticism at the start of his stint, but with time things have taken a dramatic turn. The Three Lions on whom hardly anyone had any expectations are suddenly one of the best bets to win the trophy in Russia.

Southgate has done the unthinkable, the way he has converted these talented young players into a very cohesive unit is pretty commendable. England are definitely not the best side to come to Russia, but knowing his team's weaknesses and working on them has been Southgate's biggest feat. The youngsters believe that they can go all the way and for that Southgate deserves credit.

3. The Swedes have shown a lot of character throughout the tournament

The Scandinavians have been a revelation in Russia. While the big boys have failed to live up to expectations, the Swedes have played their heart out each time they have stepped onto the field. The Blue and Yellows are the reason both Holland and Italy are not at the World Cup.

They also topped a group consisting of Germany, South Korea and Mexico and knocked out a higher ranked Switzerland side. So, Janne Andersson should be proud of his team as without any big star they have come so far in the tournament.

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2. Pickford the man of the hour for the Three Lions

Jordan Pickford who has been the fan-favourite for every English supporter after England's first ever World Cup penalty shootout win over Colombia in the last round, carried his sizzling form against Sweden.

The 24-year-old goalkeeper made three crucial saves on the day as he kept on denying the Swedish forwards, especially Marcus Berg. The shot-stopper has been a key member of this English side and he will hope to put in another stellar performance in the semis.

1. Is it really coming home?

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The Swedes were completely outplayed by a dominant English side. After Maguire's thumping header, it was pretty obvious that the Three Lions would control proceeding. Although, the Blue and Yellows did manage to create some chances, none went past Pickford.

Looking at their likely opponents in the semis they could face either Croatia or Russia and considering the form Southgate's men have shown recently, it looks like a winnable match for the Three Lions. They are definitely marching to the semis and keeping alive the hope of finally bringing home the coveted prize.

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