After a dominant 6-2 victory in their first match of the FIFA World Cup 2022 against Iran, England will be going as heavy favorites against the USA in their second Group match on Friday. The USA, on the other hand, were held 1-1 by Wales in their first World Cup 2022 encounter.
The United States of America were cruising against Wales in their first game, but they were forced to settle for a draw after Gareth Bale scored a late penalty. If they lost to Gareth Southgate and co., it would be very difficult for them to qualify for the knockout stage. So it is a must-win game for the US.
England, fresh off of a 6-2 victory over Iran in their opener, enters this match as a clear favorite. But before departing for Qatar, England have lost all six of their UEFA Nations League contests this year, which led to their relegation. So England surely can't take anything lightly.
England Team News
Following their victory against Iran the last time out, Southgate is unlikely to make many changes to his starting lineup. James Maddison, a standout for Leicester City, is still out with a knee injury, but Marcus Rashford has recovered and will be expected to play some role once against after his cameo in the previous match. Bukayo Saka is in form of his life and will definitely be a starter on the right. Likes of Harry Kane, Harry Maguire are also expected to retain their spots in the starting XI.
USA Team News
The majority of important players in the USA squad, many of whom are Premier League players, are travelling to Qatar with coach Gregg Berhalter. The team is captained by Tyler Adams, and other key members like Antonee Robinson, Tim Ream, Brenden Aaronson, and Christian Pulisic are all definite starters. Pulisic will be key to the US squad if they need to topple the Three Lions. The Stars and Stripes are suddenly playing an important match in this one. They would have felt less pressure if they had won against Wales, but this match means that if they lose here, they would be on the brink of exit.
England vs USA Prediction
It's difficult to see how the US will be able to keep England silent in this situation. Their best chance of success is probably scoring on the counter-attack and then playing strong defence, but even that may not be sufficient. We are going with a convincing win for in-form England.
Betting tips
Back the Three Lions to win and over 2.5 goals on Friday against the USA. You can find all the odds at Betway by simply creating an account.
