On Tuesday evening at the City Ground, England delivered a notably disappointing display and suffered a 3-1 defeat against Senegal.
In the friendly match held in Nottingham towards the end of a hectic season, not much was at stake for the team. However, manager Thomas Tuchel would likely feel disappointed with how his players performed.
His flawless beginning as the leader of the Three Lions has come to an end, and the German will be contemplating numerous queries about the World Cup just a year away.
Harry Kane had provided England with an early advantage, and although the away team began brightly, it appeared as though it might be a straightforward night for the home side.
It wasn’t like that at all since Senegal clearly outperformed their opponents, appearing much livelier in the middle of the park and posing greater danger upfront. Forward Ismaila Sarr from Crystal Palace scored an equalizer just before halftime, demonstrating significantly sharper focus compared to the sluggish Kyle Walker.
Habibe Diarra netted for Africa on the 62nd minute as he broke free down the right flank before coolly slotting past Dean Henderson. The score was sealed with Cheikh Sabaly scoring their third during stoppage time following a counterattack.
England seemed lackadaisical as if they didn’t care much for this summer friendly, whereas Senegal came fully prepared and thoroughly merited their victory.
Dean Henderson – 6
England owed their goalkeeper for keeping the lead down to just one goal in the opening period, with Henderson producing several impressive stops.
He will feel annoyed at being nutmegged for the second time. Senegal However, it wouldn't be fair to hold him responsible for it.
Kyle Walker – 3
It wasn't a good performance for the seasoned player, who may be a worry moving ahead. Thomas Tuchel He found himself out of position when Ismaila Sarr overtook him to score Senegal’s opening goal and was subsequently cautioned for a careless challenge shortly thereafter.
Roy Keane commented on Walker's role in Sarr’s goal stating, "I believe he was lazy. Despite being an extremely seasoned player, he seems unwilling to put in the effort to get back into position."
Trevoh Chalobah – 5
Appeared strong and sleek in his first match for England and might have a prospect as a central defender, provided he secures a spot in the Chelsea lineup next season.
Levi Colwill – 4
He faced off against his Chelsea teammate Nicolas Jackson during this match and appeared somewhat uncomfortable. He escaped conceding a clear goalscoring opportunity by sheer luck when almost losing possession defensively. Additionally, he received a yellow card for a heavy tackle on Jackson.
Myles Lewis-Skelly – 4
The young talent from Arsenal seemed somewhat inconspicuous and failed to demonstrate the energy and vigor he has shown occasionally with the club. He was largely absent when Diarra surged forward along his wing, leading to Senegal’s second goal. He was substituted near the end of the match.
Declan Rice – 4
Struggled to make an impact in the match as England couldn't dominate proceedings on their own turf. Substituted at the 71-minute mark.
Conor Gallagher – 5
He maintained his energetic and vibrant presence, effectively winning the ball even when positioned deep downfield. Together with Eze, they managed to regain control and initiate England’s opening score. He was substituted at the 58-minute mark.
Bukayo Saka – 4
Remained largely silent throughout much of the match but had just one opportunity spoilt by a remarkable save from Edouard Mendy at the 68-minute mark. Was substituted off at the 71st minute.
Eberechi Eze – 6
Assisted in scoring the opening goal by gaining possession alongside Gallagher and almost created another with a precise pass to Gibbs-White. Showed moments of danger, yet that remained the extent of it.
Anthony Gordon – 5
His relatively mild attempt ultimately resulted in Kane scoring first when the goalkeeper parried it towards him. He demonstrated fleeting moments of threat on the left side and managed to find himself in an excellent spot for a goal, yet he somehow squandered a great opportunity created by Walker’s delivery.
Replaced on 58 minutes.
Harry Kane – 6
Harry Kane put in quite a standard display for England, finding himself perfectly positioned to net the goal yet failing to contribute much more that would be remembered over time.
Consistently dedicated, he kept deflecting the balls from his own penalty area and raised his international goal count to 73. He was substituted at the 58-minute mark.
Substitutes
58 minutes – Morgan Gibbs-White – 5
58 minutes – Curtis Jones – 4
58 minutes – Morgan Rogers – 4
71 – Jude Bellingham – 5
71 – Noni Madueke – 4
88 – Ivan Toney – Not Applicable
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