As the dust settles on the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar, England’s campaign can be best described as a tale of potential unfulfilled. Gareth Southgate’s men arrived with expectations tempered by past heartbreak and left with a familiar sense of “what if?”, yet again playing good football, yet again falling short in the knockout rounds.

In this post we are going to break down the key talking points of each England game at the tournament, and look back at the journey Southgate’s side have been on in the last month or so, and what can be taken away to progress forward into Euro 2024.

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England 6-2 Iran (Group Stage)

England opened their campaign in emphatic fashion, brushing aside Iran with a dominant attacking display. Questions over Southgate’s tactical conservatism were temporarily silenced as the Three Lions surged forward with fluidity and purpose.

Jude Bellingham announced himself on the world stage with a commanding midfield performance and a well-taken goal. Bukayo Saka bagged a brace, while Sterling, Rashford, and Grealish added to the tally. Though Iran’s late goals slightly marred the defensive record, this was as convincing a start as any England side has delivered at a major tournament.

Key takeaway: Youthful energy and attacking verve put the world on notice. Bellingham and Saka looked born for the big stage.

England 0-0 USA (Group Stage)

If the opener showcased England’s attacking potential, the second game brought familiar criticisms back into the spotlight. A stodgy, uninspired performance saw England struggle to impose themselves against a well-organised USA side. Midfield was a battleground they failed to win, and the tempo was too slow to break down a disciplined American setup.

Southgate’s decision to stick with a cautious midfield duo and delay substitutions drew ire from fans and pundits alike. A wake-up call, but one that still left England in control of their group.

Key takeaway: Tactical rigidity reared its head. Creativity was lacking, and questions about midfield balance remained unresolved.

England 3-0 Wales (Group Stage)

With qualification on the line for Wales and top spot in the group up for grabs, England found their rhythm once again. Marcus Rashford was the star, netting twice, including a stunning free-kick, and playing with renewed confidence. Phil Foden, finally unleashed from the start, added the third.

This performance restored optimism, showcasing England’s depth and attacking options. Southgate’s rotation paid off, and the team looked sharp going into the knockouts.

Key takeaway: England’s attacking depth was reaffirmed. Rashford’s resurgence and Foden’s involvement were timely boosts.

England 3-0 Senegal (Round Of 16)

Senegal posed a stern test on paper, but England dispatched the African champions with clinical efficiency. After a nervous opening 30 minutes, Bellingham once again pulled the strings, assisting Henderson for the opener before helping launch the move for Kane’s first goal of the tournament.

Saka added the third, and England showed maturity, control, and a killer instinct. For many, this was one of the most complete performances under Southgate’s reign.

Key takeaway: Composure and control. England looked like genuine contenders, with Bellingham continuing to shine.

England 1-2 France (Quarter-Final)

In a heavyweight clash with the defending champions, England matched France stride for stride and arguably outplayed them for large stretches. Tchouameni’s long-range strike opened the scoring, but England responded well, with Kane converting a penalty to level.

The game turned on fine margins as Giroud rose to head France back in front, and Kane, who is so often the hero, skied a second penalty that could have forced extra time.

There was pride in the performance, but ultimately, the ruthless edge and big-game experience of France told. Once again, England went out to elite opposition, having played well but lacked the decisive moment.

Key takeaway: A mature, brave display undone by small margins. England fell short, but not due to inferiority. This was a battle lost, not a surrender.

Conclusion

England’s 2022 campaign was defined by a balance between youth and experience, attacking intent and defensive caution, control and chaos. Southgate’s squad showed signs of evolution, particularly in the performances of Bellingham, Saka, and Foden. There was no shame in falling to France, but the pain of missed opportunities lingers.

With Euro 2024 on the horizon and a golden generation entering its prime, the pressure will only grow. Southgate has steadied the ship over the years, but whether he can steer England all the way remains the unanswered question.