England, who were third in the last World Cup, are in a tight battle with Senegal in the round of 16. England's performance in the group stage has been getting better and better, especially the solidity of the back line, which will be crucial in the knockout stage. It is expected that coach Shuufki will continue to adopt a more conservative tactic, facing a strong African team, and will not easily launch an attack at half-time to avoid being seized by the opponent. It is worth noting that their record in the last three World Cups against African teams is half a win and half a draw, which is worthy of attention. (Now 618 and 616 live at 3am on Monday)
England, known as the "Three Lions", beat Wales 3-0 in their final group game, despite playing some substitutes, to make it two wins and a draw in the group stage. It is worth noting that despite a four-goal lead against Iran in the first match, the team slacked off late in the game and lost two goals, but has not conceded a goal in its last two matches.
England have plenty of knockout experience
Harry Marcus has been a welcome change from his usual vices of being relegated to the bench at United, as well as being a low performer on the field, and has been outstanding for England, contributing both offensively and defensively, and with him at the head of the defense, he really inspires confidence.
Coach Shuufki's insistence on using him has finally paid off. Entering the knockout stage, the stability of the defense becomes especially important, and the basic team of England, which reached the final of last year's European Cup, is the same group of people, who have a wealth of experience and know how to cope with the kicking style and pressure of the knockout stage.
Senegal managed to advance to the Round of 16 with two consecutive wins after losing their first match against the Netherlands. The players are in excellent physical condition and in a physical first half, they can easily score against weaker teams and stay even against stronger teams such as the Netherlands, so expect the first half of their match against England to be a physical battle.
However, most of England's players play in the Premier League and are used to the high pressure and fast pace of the game, and will not give Senegal too much space, so I believe the first half will be a tug-of-war, with half-time draws to be expected.
