England secured qualification to the 2022 World Cup following an emphatic 10-0 win in San Marino.
The Three Lions finished top of Group I by six points after an unbeaten campaign where they conceded just three goals and scored 39, giving them a great chance at Casumo sports betting for going far in the 2022 World Cup.
Gareth Southgate’s side has maintained a high standard despite their disappointing Euro 2020 final loss to Italy in July. Their attentions will now turn to the Qatar World Cup, which kicks off on November 21, as they hope to recreate the magic that took them to the Euros final.
Impressive Form
England has transformed from a struggling side, failing to fulfil its potential, to a top international team in recent years.
One of the key factors in this transformation has been the consistency in England’s performances. Currently, the Three Lions are on a 20-match unbeaten run in all competitions, including the 1-1 draw within 90 minutes against Italy.
During this streak, England has won 15 and kept the same number of clean sheets. Impressive wins have also come against top European sides, including Croatia, the Czech Republic and Germany.
This level of consistency gives Southgate’s side a foundation to build from. The ability to see off teams that England may have previously struggled against shows impressive improvement heading into the World Cup.
Strong Squad
Another important element of England’s strong form has been the blend of youth and experience in the squad.
Long-term members, such as Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling, Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson, have been part of the international setup for years. But they have been mixed with youthful talents like Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden, who themselves are becoming more integrated, regular members of the squad.
Furthermore, players like Emile Smith-Rowe and Conor Gallagher have forced their way into contention in recent matches. This only shows the level of depth in the current pool of English players. There is a depth available for Southgate to choose from, and if his key players can maintain form and fitness leading up to the 2022 World Cup, England should be in a good position to mount a successful push for the title.
Can England compete with the top sides?
One concern about Southgate’s leadership of the England team is his tactical astuteness to see off top international opposition. The England boss showcased his capabilities in Euro 2020 to defeat Croatia, the Czech Republic, Germany and Ukraine on the way to the final without conceding a goal.
However, there were question marks following the defeat on penalties to Italy in the final. England couldn’t take advantage of a blistering start, and their performance faltered later in the game.
Yet there is a growing optimism following recent tournament performances that England can now take on top opposition. No longer the underdogs, the World Cup could prove to be Southgate’s chance to lead his crop of English footballing talent to a long-awaited major tournament victory.