England's 'Mr X' at World Cup: 0-0 with Ghana, 23rd draw in history — record
The match against Ghana at Giltep Stadium ended 0-0. Yesterday's result marked the 23rd draw in England's World Cup history; And then a draw despite having over 78% possession is a unique record.
After a solid 4-2 debut against Croatia, England slowed their run in the second match. England, led by coach Thomas Tuchel, managed to draw 0-0 with Ghana at the Giltep Stadium in Boston.
The African team played very entrepreneurially and dramatically and remained composed throughout the match. In the closing moments of the match, the Ghanaian players protested for a penalty, but the Honduran referee Martinez did not accept the call.
It was a rare World Cup statistic for England: the match was the 23rd draw in their history in 17 appearances at the World Cup — more than any other team. 13 of those 23 matches, including yesterday's match, ended 0-0.
Another peculiarity was also registered: England had over 78% of the possession in this match and managed a draw—no one had ever drawn with this metric before. These statistics revive an age-old problem for England: the lack of success in converting that influence into wins.
The numbers are clear — more power, more possession, but converting into goals will bring points. It remains to be seen how this result will affect England's position in the group.