The World Cup quarter-finals conclude with a heavyweight clash between old rivals England and France and although they first squared off in 1923, this is just the third meeting at a World Cup and the first since 1982. England won both of those meetings by a two-goal margin, but with just one win across the last eight H2H’s (D2, L2), it seems a stern challenge awaits Gareth Southgate’s side.
The three Lions overcame an uncertain start against Senegal to win 3-0 in the last-16, with Harry Kane’s first goal of the tournament and the performance of Jude Bellingham particular highlights. It marked England’s third consecutive clean sheet (W2, D1), prompting similarities to be drawn with last year’s run to the European Championship final, which was underpinned by defensive solidity.
Kane’s goal against Senegal was his 11th in major tournament finals, putting him ahead of all other Englishmen. Meanwhile, France will hope their lucky charm Giroud can strike again given they have won the last ten games in which he has netted.
England are the only team yet to a yellow card at this World Cup.
Bellingham is just the eighth player to be included in an England World Cup squad while playing for a non-British club.
Would England overpower France again just like they did in their previous meetings or France would turn things around?
