England’s 4-2 demolition of Croatia in their 2026 World Cup opener was the kind of result that looks great on the scoreboard and slightly less great on the tactics board. Four goals scored, two conceded, and a defensive setup that left pundits reaching for their reading glasses to double-check the lineup sheet.
Now, as Thomas Tuchel’s side prepares to face Ghana on June 23 in Boston, the conversation has shifted from celebration to correction. Both teams enter this Group L fixture undefeated after their respective opening victories, making this effectively a contest for group supremacy.
The Guehi-Stones debate
John Stones started at centre-back against Croatia. Marc Guehi, meanwhile, watched most of the action from the bench before entering as a late substitute. That selection choice is now under serious scrutiny.
Guehi’s stock has risen considerably since his January transfer to Manchester City, where his club form has been consistently impressive.
