England were held to a goalless draw by Ghana at Boston Stadium, missing the chance to secure an early place in the last 32 of the FIFA World Cup.
Thomas Tuchel’s side, who impressed in their opening victory over Croatia, struggled to reproduce the same attacking fluency against a disciplined and well-organised Ghanaian team.
England failed to register a shot on target until the 57th minute and were repeatedly exposed to Ghana’s counter-attacks in a disjointed encounter.
In a bid to find a breakthrough, Tuchel introduced Bukayo Saka, whose playing time is being carefully managed due to an Achilles issue, and replaced Jude Bellingham with Morgan Rogers.
Saka forced a fine save from Ghana goalkeeper Benjamin Asare, while substitute Nico O’Reilly headed against the crossbar. Marc Guehi also came close, with his header cleared off the line.
England were fortunate not to concede a late penalty when defender Ezri Konsa brought down Prince Kwabena Adu inside the box without making contact with the ball, but no spot-kick was awarded.
The draw leaves England top of Group L, although they must now avoid defeat against Panama in their final group match to confirm qualification for the knockout stage.