Emerging
Jun 23, 2026 Major2
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England Make Two Changes for World Cup Clash Against Ghana; Saka Benched Again
England manager Thomas Tuchel has made two defensive changes for the World Cup 2026 Group L match against Ghana, bringing in Djed Spence and Marc Guéhi. Bukayo Sakan remains on the bench as he recovers from an Achilles injury, while Harry Kane leads the attack. Ghana start Thomas Partey despite his ongoing legal issues.
Quick Facts
Who
Thomas Tuchel
What
England makes two changes to starting lineup vs Ghana
When
Tuesday match at World Cup 2026
Where
World Cup 2026 Group L match
- England makes two changes to starting lineup vs Ghana
- Spence replaces O'Reilly at left-back
- Guéhi replaces Stones at centre-back
- Saka remains on bench for second match
- Kane leads attack after two goals vs Croatia
England manager Thomas Tuchel has made two changes to his starting lineup for Tuesday's World Cup 2026 Group L match against Ghana, with Djed Spence and Marc Guéhi coming into the side. The Three Lions are looking to build on their 4-2 opening victory over Croatia and secure a place in the knockout stage with a win.
Spence, whose surprise inclusion in the 26-man squad drew attention in May, replaces Nico O'Reilly at left-back. Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi steps in at centre-back for John Stones. The changes come after England's defence showed some vulnerability against Croatia, conceding twice in the first half before rallying after half-time.
Bukayo Saka remains on the bench for the second consecutive match as he continues his recovery from an Achilles problem. The Arsenal winger played 18 minutes against Croatia but Tuchel has said he is likely to be ready to start against Panama. Noni Madueke keeps his place on the right wing, while Anthony Gordon starts on the left despite Marcus Rashford scoring as a substitute in the opening match.
Harry Kane, who scored twice against Croatia, leads the line and will be eager to add to his tally as he trails Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappé and Erling Haaland in the race for the Golden Boot. Jude Bellingham, who impressed in the number 10 role, also retains his place in the starting XI. Declan Rice and Elliot Anderson continue in midfield, with Rice saying he is "raring to go" after being withdrawn against Croatia with back discomfort.
Ghana, who beat Panama 1-0 in their tournament opener, have named Thomas Partey in their starting lineup. The former Arsenal midfielder was denied entry to Canada ahead of the Panama match after being charged with multiple counts of rape and sexual assault in London. Partey denies all charges and is due to stand trial next summer. Antoine Semenyo and captain Jordan Ayew lead the Ghana attack.
Why This Matters
This lineup update is crucial for fans and analysts tracking England's defensive stability and attacking depth in the World Cup. The inclusion of Spence and Guéhi indicates Tuchel's attempt to address vulnerabilities exposed against Croatia. Saka's continued bench role affects fantasy football and betting odds, while Kane's form could determine the Golden Boot race. Ghana's decision to start Partey despite legal issues may influence team morale and public perception.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 16, 2026
WireEngland beat Croatia 4-2 in World Cup opener
Jun 16, 2026
WireGhana beat Panama 1-0 in opener
Jun 23, 2026
WireEngland vs Ghana World Cup 2026 Group L match