England Held by Ghana as Possession Record Ends in Goalless Draw

Report: Imran Sohail

England were forced to settle for a 0-0 draw against Ghana in their FIFA World Cup 2026 Group L match despite controlling large portions of the game.

The Three Lions enjoyed nearly 79 percent possession and created several scoring opportunities but were unable to find a breakthrough against a disciplined Ghana side.

England Dominate Possession

England controlled the tempo throughout the match, recording 78.8 percent possession and attempting 19 shots. However, only three efforts tested the Ghana goalkeeper.

According to tournament statistics, it was the highest possession percentage recorded by a team in a World Cup match without scoring a goal since detailed records began in 1966.

Ghana Defend Resolutely

Ghana remained organized defensively and limited England’s clear-cut chances despite spending much of the game without the ball.

Goalkeeper Benjamin Asare produced several important saves to help his side secure a valuable point in the group stage encounter.

Late Chances Go Begging

England came close to scoring on multiple occasions during the second half.

Captain Harry Kane tested the goalkeeper with a long-range effort, while substitute Bukayo Saka forced another save late in the match.

One of England’s best opportunities arrived when Nico O’Reilly’s header struck the crossbar. The rebound fell to Kane, but his follow-up attempt went over the bar.

Group L Standings

The result leaves England at the top of Group L with four points after two matches.

Ghana also moved to four points and remain firmly in contention for a place in the knockout stage. Croatia sit third in the group, while Panama occupy fourth place.

With one group match remaining, qualification for the next round is still open, setting up an important final round of fixtures for all four teams.