Unconvincing England survive against Paraguay
A third minute own goal by Carlos Gamarra gave England a 1-0 win in the opening match of Group B. In a dour encounter in Frankfurt, England struggle to impose themselves against a competitive Paraguay. With beanpole Peter Crouch the focus, England’s long ball style was ineffective and they failed to create any real chances of note.
Paraguay were poor in the first half but improved in the second as questionable tactical decisions from Eriksson played into the South Americans’ hands. The withdrawal of Owen created a huge gap between midfield and attack and England began to sit back and play the “catenaccio” style which cost them at Euro 2004. With Valdez increasingly dangerous and substitute Cuevas starting to run at their defence, the English started to look nervous, losing possession easily.
But Paraguay failed to translate their second half territorial dominance into clear cut opportunities and England held on. The highlight of the second half was probably Robinson’s goal kick hitting the massive TV screen suspended above the pitch.
On this evidence, England seem vastly overhyped. The team lacks creativity and movement in attack in the absence of Rooney and catenaccio will not worry the likes of Brazil or Argentina.
