England Player Ratings: Toney capitalized from the penalty spot and excelled in the forward position in Harry Kane’s absence, while Kobbie Mainoo stood out and Jude Bellingham consistently performed well. Conversely, Dunk did not make a strong impression, committing a mistake that led to a goal, and Jordan Pickford was responsible for a turnover that led to the opening score.
Review how the England players performed during Tuesday’s 2-2 tie with Belgium at Wembley.
The match featured Youri Tielemans taking advantage of two mistakes from the home team around Ivan Toney’s penalty kick before James Maddison set up Jude Bellingham for a last-minute equalizer.
Jordan Pickford – Rated 5:
As England’s top goalkeeper, Pickford had a significant misstep leading to Belgium’s first goal by attempting an ill-advised pass that Amadou Onana intercepted, setting up Youri Tielemans. He did not compensate with outstanding saves as he did against Brazil and currently faces no significant challenge for his position.
Ezri Konsa – Rated 6:
Initially played as a right-back before moving central after John Stones’ early departure. Konsa was not at fault for the first-half goals and performed well defensively after the break, showcasing solid tackling and passing. However, he remains a secondary choice in the lineup.
John Stones – N/A:
Exited the game after only nine minutes due to injury, raising concerns for Manchester City and their upcoming significant match against Arsenal.
Lewis Dunk – Rated 5:
Following a pattern, Dunk made costly mistakes leading to goals in two consecutive games. Despite a potential assist nullified by an offside decision and his contribution to Bellingham’s goal, his position seems less secure than Harry Maguire’s.
Ben Chilwell – Rated 6:
Despite a less-than-impressive performance against Brazil, Chilwell improved in this match. His form and fitness are still concerns, especially with Luke Shaw’s availability in question, but he showed better defensive skills and integration as the game progressed.
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Kobbie Mainoo – Rated 8:
The young star impressed on his first international start, contributing to the build-up for Toney’s penalty and displaying his ability beyond a defensive midfield role. His midfield maneuvers and pressing led to a turnover from Onana, earning praise and showcasing his potential at the international level.
Jordan Pickford (Rating: 5)
England’s first-choice goalkeeper had a tough time with Belgium’s opening goal, making a mistake by trying to play the ball out and inadvertently setting up Amadou Onana, who assisted Youri Tielemans.
Despite this, Pickford did not redeem himself with significant saves like he did against Brazil, as there’s no current strong contender for his position.
Ezri Konsa (Rating: 6)
Initially played as a right-back but moved to the center following John Stones’ departure. Konsa couldn’t prevent the early goals but showcased his defensive skills post-interval and maintained composure in defensive passing. However, he remains a secondary choice for now.
John Stones (Rating: N/A)
They experienced a brief nine-minute play before succumbing to injury, adding concerns for Manchester City and their upcoming significant match against Arsenal.
Lewis Dunk (Rating: 5)
Dunk’s recent international performances have been marred by mistakes leading to goals in consecutive games. While he had a role in Bellingham’s goal, these errors have solidified Harry Maguire’s position over his.
Declan Rice (Rating: 6)
On his 50th cap, Rice exhibited leadership and reliability in midfield despite a positional error on Tielemans for Belgium’s second goal. He adapted to a more defensive role after Stones left the game.
Jude Bellingham (Rating: 8)
Bellingham confirmed his importance to the team with a well-deserved goal, demonstrating leadership and presence beyond his years. His connections with teammates and strategic movements caused trouble for Belgium.
Jarrod Bowen (Rating: 7)
Bowen was active from the start, linking up well with teammates and demonstrating his potential for future selection with dynamic play and effective dribbles.
Ivan Toney (Rating: 8)
Toney made the most of his opportunity, balancing his play between creating chances and scoring from the penalty spot, presenting a strong case for his inclusion in future lineups.
Phil Foden (Rating: 7)
While he didn’t replicate his Manchester City brilliance, Foden displayed a solid performance, showcasing excellent ball control and team play, particularly alongside Toney.
Substitutes:
- Joe Gomez (Rating: 6): Quickly involved due to Stones’ early exit, Gomez handled his defensive duties well despite a booking.
- James Maddison (Rating: 7): Made a crucial contribution with a late assist for Bellingham, turning a previously frustrating performance around.
- Anthony Gordon (Rating: 6): He had limited impact in his brief appearance but continued to show promise.
- Ollie Watkins (Rating: 6): Entered late in the game and contributed to the final push, although he’ll need to continue his club performance to secure his spot.
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