England produced a terrific second half display against Croatia to open their World Cup campaign with a win, and given the extended format, it’s expected that a win in the first game should be enough to progress. However, another tricky tie against Ghana on Tuesday could give England the confirmation of their place at the top of the group if they can produce another strong showing. With a couple of fitness question marks, it’s unlikely to see much change for this, with the rotation hopefully more likely to come against Panama if England are safely at the top of the table.

Let us know your predicted XI for England’s second group game on Tuesday evening over on our social channels, and don’t forget to check back with us throughout the tournament for plenty more England and World Cup action.

Defence

In goal, Jordan Pickford looked okay for most of the opener, and despite the odd shaky moment, he remained as consistent for the national side as ever, and will surely continue his run as England’s no.1.

In the full-back roles, I think Djed Spence will be given the nod ahead of Nico O’Reilly as Spence’s athleticism and speed can really help against the Ghana attacking threat. I think he will start out at left-back, but might see a switch to the other side if Recce James needs to be managed with his minutes. I do think Recce James will start on the right-back role as he is without a doubt the top choice for this role in the squad, and so I can’t see Tuchel needing to make any change.

In the centre back pairing, I think Ezri Konsa will remain, but we will see Tuchel opt for Marc Guehi to start alongside. Many including myself were surprised by Guehi not starting the opener, but understandable that John Stones will feature throughout the tournament. However, given Stones’ fitness questions, I think having Konsa-Guehi begin to connect will make sense, with Stones possibly being used again against Panama.

Midfield

The midfield three I predict will remain the same as the starting choice against Croatia, and despite the question over Declan Rice‘s fitness with a possible concern at full-time against Croatia, I think him and Elliot Anderson are England’s top choice. I would like to see Kobbie Mainoo given a run out in the second half if England are ahead, to allow Declan Rice to take some rest before the knockout rounds.

In the no.10, Jude Bellingham certainly answered any questions over his place as he looked on top form in the second 45 against Croatia. I think he will continue to play a key role for England, and possibly if England are ahead, they can utilise their options of Rogers/Eze later in the game.

Attack

In attack, I think we will see the same front three as against Croatia, with Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane and Noni Madueke doing a decent job in the clash on the opener.

I did think Rashford and Saka made an impact in the later stages in the opening win, however I still feel like Rashford is the perfect late cameo role needed on the left to take advantage of tired legs in the Ghana defence. Meanwhile with Saka, I think he needs to be managed through the group stage, with a key role for him in the knockout rounds surely and so Madueke should be allowed to start with a later change if possible.

Up top, Harry Kane continues to be England’s talismanic figure, and will play throughout the tournament as his golden boot efforts will surely be looking to continuee after his opening brace.

Don’t forget to let us know your predicted XI for England’s second group game on Tuesday evening over on our social channels, and don’t forget to check back with us throughout the tournament for plenty more England and World Cup action.