England will aim to secure their place in the knockout rounds of the World Cup on Tuesday when they face Ghana, while Portugal look to revive their campaign after a disappointing opening draw.
A day after Argentina and France reached the last 32, England will meet Ghana in Group L knowing a victory will take them safely into the next stage of the tournament.
England began their campaign with a convincing 4-2 win over Croatia, giving the Three Lions renewed confidence as they chase their first major championship title in 60 years.
Captain Harry Kane scored twice in the match, while Real Madrid midfielder Jude Bellingham also found the net. England midfielder Declan Rice said Thomas Tuchel’s squad have the quality to compete against any side in the tournament.
Rice said the main challenge for England would be to repeat the attacking display shown in the second half against Croatia.
“We know as players the level that is required, and that second-half performance was probably the benchmark for us,” Rice said.
“We believe that if we can start the game at that level, with the players we have to come on and finish the match, we can beat any opponent in the world.”
England manager Thomas Tuchel said his team were ready to handle the pressure of a World Cup campaign.
“There are emotions involved and at some point you can feel the tension and pressure. I hope we can cope with it, accept it and turn it around,” Tuchel said.
England will remain alert to the threat of Ghana forward Antoine Semenyo, who has become a key figure in the Black Stars attack.
Ghana, who defeated Panama 1-0 in their opening match, can also qualify for the knockout rounds with a win over England at Foxborough.
Croatia face possible elimination if they lose to Panama and Ghana avoid defeat against England.
Croatia captain Luka Modric is set to make his 200th international appearance, with only three men having played more matches at international level.
Cristiano Ronaldo leads the list with 229 appearances, followed by Lionel Messi with 201, while Kuwait’s Bader Al-Mutawa has 202 caps.
Portugal seek response after opening setback
Portugal will look to put a difficult opening week behind them when they face Uzbekistan in Houston.
The Portuguese arrived at the World Cup among the favourites, with a squad full of attacking talent led by veteran captain Cristiano Ronaldo.
However, Ronaldo’s disappointing display in the 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo raised questions over his place in the starting line-up.
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez continued to back his captain, despite Ronaldo failing to score in his last 10 major tournament matches.
“He is a good example for all of us,” Martinez said.
“He wants to keep improving, contribute to the team and remains a role model for our players.”
Martinez did not confirm whether Ronaldo would start against Uzbekistan, saying the team line-up had not yet been announced.
The Portugal manager said the frustration after the draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo would provide motivation against Uzbekistan, who are appearing at their first World Cup and are regarded as underdogs.
“The feeling of disappointment after the game is probably the best starting point to prepare for the next match,” Martinez said.
