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England Player Ratings After Semi-Final Loss to Argentina in World Cup

England’s World Cup hopes were crushed once more following a semi-final defeat by Argentina on Wednesday night. Though the Three Lions held the lead late in the match, they couldn’t withstand Argentina’s pressure as the reigning champions turned the game around in Atlanta.

Goalkeeper and Defenders

  • Jordan Pickford – 7: Some may question his role in Argentina’s equalizer, but Enzo Fernandez’s strike slipped through a crowd of players. Pickford did keep England ahead with an impressive low save from Nico Gonzalez.
  • Reece James – 6: Delivered a dependable performance, fulfilling his defensive duties well without showing the creative spark he’s capable of. He was not beaten in one-on-one situations before being substituted.
  • John Stones – 6: Started for his experience as England tried to hold firm. His excellent clearing header relieved danger, though some might argue he could have been tighter marking Lautaro Martinez for the winning goal.
  • Marc Guehi – 6: Mostly untroubled but faced intense pressure when England dropped deep defensively.

Midfield and Wing Play

  • Djed Spence – 8: Stood out as England’s top player. Showed positive dribbling and creativity with nutmegs and powerful runs past defenders. His recovery tackle on Simeone was exceptional. This tournament has surely boosted his reputation.
  • Elliot Anderson – 7: Actively involved from the start, often fouled due to Argentina’s aggressive play. Tasked with limiting Messi, he earned a booking after a strong challenge on the veteran. Solid throughout.
  • Declan Rice – 6: Brought energy but seemed below his best form this tournament. Could use some rest after a demanding season.
  • Morgan Rogers – 6: Came in and out of the match but delivered a great cross assisting Gordon’s goal. England needed to find more ways to involve him.
  • Jude Bellingham – 6: Maintained composure despite clear attempts to unsettle him. Has been outstanding all tournament but struggled to influence this game amid England’s defensive posture after taking the lead.

Attackers

  • Anthony Gordon – 7: Scored well and led the team’s pressing efforts. Connected nicely with Djed Spence at times.
  • Harry Kane – 6: Found it difficult to impact the match as he wanted. Dropped deep for involvement but this reduced England’s attacking threat. Did not manage a single touch inside Argentina’s penalty area.

Substitutes

  • Ezri Konsa – 6: Entered as England tried to defend their lead but had little success halting Argentina’s momentum.
  • Nico O’Reilly – 6: Added energy in midfield though England seemed resigned to their fate by then. Deserves rest after a busy campaign.
  • Dan Burn – 6: Brought on to strengthen defense but ended up pushing forward awkwardly. Not the scenario manager Thomas Tuchel would have imagined after Burn’s heroics against Mexico.
  • Ivan Toney – N/A: Only had a few minutes, no chance to influence the game.
  • Marcus Rashford – N/A: A late gamble as England pushed for an equalizer. Made one notable run.

The result ended England’s World Cup journey, but the performances of players like Djed Spence and Elliot Anderson offered some bright spots. Maybe with rest and reflection, these players will come back stronger.

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