England captain Harry Kane after the FIFA World Cup 2022 Group B match against USA at Al Bayt Stadium on Friday night. Image Courtesy: Twitter @England

Xtra Time Web Desk: England were forced to play out a goalless draw in FIFA World Cup 2022 Group B clash against USA at the Al Bayt stadium on Friday night. The result saw Gareth Southgate’s boys remain on top of the Group.

Only a defeat to Wales by four goals or more would prevent the Three Lions from making the next stage. But it was definitely a big drop-off in England’s performance after their thumping 6-2 win against Iran in the first match.

It was USA who came closest to scoring a goal as Christian Pulisic’s shot hit the bar in the first half.

In another Group B fixture, Iran made the most of their one-man advantage as they scored two injury-time goals to beat Wales 2-0 to keep their hopes alive about entering the next stage. Wales goalkeeper Wayne Hennessey was sent-off for a foul outside the penalty box, giving Iran a man’s advantage in the dying minutes. 

Roozbeh Cheshmi, Ramin Rezaeian scored the two goals for Iran. The result saw Iran climbing to second spot in points table despite the 2-6 embarrassment at the hands of England in the first match. USA are placed in third spot with 2 points. The Asian team cannot afford to lose in their last fixture against USA.