England beat Senegal to face France in quarter-finals
England beat Senegal in their last 16 game to set up a quarter-final meeting with France on Saturday.
England started poorly, spending the first half hour surviving a nervy start that saw keeper Jordan Pickford make an incredible save.
But once England got into the game’s rhythm, the team could show off their powerful attacking strength.
Jude Bellingham, 19, didn’t get on the scoresheet last night but the Player of the Match shone. He set up the first goal, a perfect cross after 38 minutes, and found Jordan Henderson who saw the ball to the back of the net.
He also played a key role in the second goal, combining Phil Foden as Captain Harry Kane powered in his first goal of the tournament.
Kane is just one goal behind Wayne Rooney’s all-time record of 53 goals for England.
Foden played a big role in the third goal as well, in the 57th minute he crossed it into Bukayo Saka, who showed great awareness and touched to flick a delicate finish past Edouard Mendy.
After a difficult first thirty minutes, Jordan Henderson’s goal seemed to be the breakthrough England needed to play with a bit more spirit and to attack the goal.
Raheem Sterling was not available for the game after armed robbers broke into his home whilst his family was inside. It is believed he has returned to England and it’s unclear if he will be back in Qatar for the tournament.
Gareth Southgate opted to bench Marcus Rashford for the game – but with Rashford being back in great form, England really have depth in their team.
Once England clicked they showed a level of creation that gives them a real edge and makes the genuine contenders for the World Cup.
England’s biggest threat came when Senegal attempted to expose Harry Maguire’s lack of pace, which they did a couple of times and will definitely be noted by France. It could see Kieran Trippier come in to replace Maguire for the game. England were let off when Bellingham exerted his authority over the midfield and the team were able to take control and cruise to victory. Declan Rice and Jordan Henderson – also in midfield – were key to yesterday’s win.
