Originally Posted by
dino
I said before the tournament that their results against Tunisia and Panama wouldn't be much use when judging England as a team. Every team in the tournament has had great trouble breaking down deep blocks like the one Tunisia employed in the second half.
It's worth looking at how the favourites have performed in the first round:
Brazil - creating next to nothing against Switzerland, drew 1-1
Germany - Were much worse than Mexico, could have lost by a few
France - Scored via a penalty and a long range fluke. Were lucky to win against Australia, created absolutely nothing.
Spain - Were good against Portugal. The best side in the tournament
Argentina - Created absolutely nothing against Iceland, didn't deserve to win
Belgium - Played the worst side in the tournament, had very little cohesion & relied on individual magic
England - Created more chances than any of the sides above in the first half. Conceded no chances all game, gave away a questionable penalty. Should have won about 3-0.