On a disappointing evening for England, manager Lee Carsley faced the toughest test of his young tenure as his side succumbed to a cruel last-minute setback, losing 2-1 to England. Greece at Wembley. Just when it looked like the Three Lions had salvaged a draw thanks to a late equalizer from Jude Bellingham, Vangelis Pavlidis had other ideas as he scored a goal deep in injury time, leaving the home fans stunned.
Jordan Pickford – 4
The Everton goalkeeper had a night to forget, displaying some uncharacteristic nerves throughout the match. A hasty decision to go out of his goal almost cost him dearly, but an incredible intervention from Levi Colwill came to save him, before luck smiled on him with an offside which saved him from further mishaps. Pickford will need to sharpen his game as competition for his place heats up.
Trent Alexander-Arnold – 5
The Liverpool full-back was largely ineffective, struggling to make an impact while the Greek pressing game stifled his involvement. His only moment of brilliance was an excellent cross, barely missed by Anthony Gordon, providing a rare bright spot in an otherwise lackluster performance.
John Stones – 5
In his first match as England captain, Stones struggled defensively, allowing Pavlidis to cross to open the scoring for Greece. The Three Lions backline looked precarious throughout the match, with the captain needing to better command the support among his teammates.
Levi Colwill – 6
Colwill delivered a high-level defensive performance, punctuated by a spectacular goal-line intervention which highlighted his determination. The Chelsea central defender has made a convincing case for being selected more in upcoming international fixtures.
Rico Lewis – 4
Manchester City’s young talent showed flashes of lively defending but ultimately struggled to provide the wideout England desperately needed. His tendency to return to his stronger right foot hampered the pace of the game and exposed the problems on the team’s left wing.
Declan Rice – 5
Often left to his own devices in midfield, Rice’s isolation proved alarming as Carsley’s starting lineup lacked harmony. The 25-year-old’s impact was further limited after an early yellow card hampered his aggressive approach.
Phil Foden – 5
Foden’s technique has been overshadowed by the need to have a more consistent influence in crucial matches. At this stage of his career, the English number 10 must stand up and assert himself on the international stage.
Jude Bellingham – 7
In an unconventional role as a false nine, Bellingham proved vital to England’s best efforts, scoring a superb equalizer. However, the technical staff must quickly find the best way to exploit the talents of such an exceptional player.
Cole Palmer – 5
Palmer squandered a golden opportunity early in the match, failing to convert a point-blank attempt after a superb serve from Bellingham. The disorganized nature of the English attack prevented any offensive threat from truly looming.
Anthony Gordon – 5
Showing enthusiasm and a willingness to challenge Greece, Gordon failed to finish, missing a key header from Alexander-Arnold’s cross which should have found the target.
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