England and Tuchel take leaf out of Ramsey’s book with crossing tactics

England attempted 35 crosses in open play against the DRC, their most since their World Cup winning campaign

In the 2-1 victory against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) England achieved something they had not done for six decades: win a World Cup match after going 1-0 down. The 1966 final was the only previous instance, with England losing 17 of the other 22 matches in which they conceded the first goal in the competition.

Opta provided an example of a rather more niche statistical feat that also occurred for the first time in 60 years. This one will not resonate so immediately but highlights an important aspect of the tactical story of England’s campaign this summer.

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