FIFA World Cup 2026: England set unwanted record for most goalless draws after Ghana clash
Massachusetts, June 24
England have set an unwanted record for the most goalless draws in FIFA World Cup history after their 0-0 stalemate against Ghana in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L clash.
Following the draw against Ghana, England's total number of goalless matches in World Cup history has risen to 13, the highest by any team in the tournament's history, as per The Athletic's X handle.
The list of England's 0-0 results spans across multiple editions of the competition, beginning with Brazil in 1958 and including Bulgaria in 1962, Uruguay in 1966, West Germany and Spain in 1982, Morocco in 1986, Netherlands in 1990, Nigeria in 2002, Portugal in 2006, Algeria in 2010, Costa Rica in 2014, the United States in 2022, and now Ghana in 2026
Despite coming into the match after a 4-2 win over Croatia, England dominated possession and controlled large phases of play but struggled to break down Ghana's compact five-man defence. Harry Kane was left isolated for much of the game, while England's creative players found little space between the lines and failed to register a shot on target in the first half.
In the second half, Tuchel introduced Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Eberechi Eze to add attacking urgency, while Jude Bellingham was replaced by Morgan Rogers after reaching 50 international caps at just 22 years and 359 days, becoming the youngest male player to achieve the milestone.
England's pressure increased after the changes, with Nico O'Reilly hitting the crossbar in the 87th minute and Harry Kane missing the follow-up. Ghana also survived a late scare when they cleared a header off the line in stoppage time to preserve their clean sheet.
Despite sustained pressure, England could not find a breakthrough and were forced to settle for a draw, remaining top of Group L with four points from two matches, level on points with second-placed Ghana.
— ANI
Reader Comments
13 goalless draws! That's a record you don't want to have. 😅 But honestly, credit to Ghana's defense - they played like their lives depended on it. As someone who follows Indian football too, I can appreciate a well-drilled defensive unit. England's attack looked toothless without proper service to Kane. Reminds me of how India struggles sometimes against compact Asian defenses.
Honestly, I think England fans are overreacting. Yes, it's a boring record, but they're top of the group with 4 points! Ghana played out of their skins - that's tournament football for you. India can learn from Ghana's organization - sometimes you don't need 70% possession, just a solid plan. Tuchel will fix this, mark my words. 🇮🇳⚽
Watching from the US - this is deja vu from our 0-0 draw with England in 2022! Ghana's defense today reminded me of that game. England just can't break down organized teams. As an American fan, I find it amusing but also respect their talent. Bellingham at 22 with 50 caps - that's incredible, but even he couldn't unlock this defense.
Match was boring but fascinating from a tactical perspective. Ghana's 5-man defense was rock solid - Indian teams could learn from this when playing against stronger Asian sides like Japan or Iran. England creating chances but no finisher - that's a worry. Also, Bellingham reaching 50 caps at 22 is mind-blowing! Makes you think what Indian players could achieve with better systems.
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