Gareth Southgate’s meticulous plan is coming together nicely. England are not in Russia to simply participate – they can win the World Cup. That is, if these seven scenarios come to fruition.
England have made an imposing start to World Cup 2018. Winning their first two games, as well as scoring eight goals. They face Belgium on Thursday, June 28, in the final group G game.
A win would see either team top the group. Goal difference is equal, consequently England are top of the table due to fair play. Opponents in the Round of 16 will either be Colombia, Senegal or Japan. Now begins our list explaining the Three Lions’ chances:
Harry Kane is top-scorer
Harry Kane is on fire, leading the top-scorer charts with five in two games. Tottenham’s target-man won two of the previous three Premier League Golden Boots and will strive, doing anything in his power, to attain a World Cup one.
Usually Kane would be boosted by great goalscoring form from personal prowess. In all honesty that is not the case. Since rushing back from injury he looked mediocre on occasion or not fully fit for Spurs.
Mohamed Salah beat him comfortably to top-scorer after a monumental season for the Egyptian. Yet at this tournament Kane has had two tap-ins, two penalties and a wildly deflected Ruben Loftus-Cheek effort which he knew nothing of.
Kane is a world-class striker, who now has luck on his side too. And that is not to be underestimated at a competition of this magnitude.
Gareth Southgate wouldn’t swap Harry Kane for a different striker at the World Cup, telling Sky News, “He’s up at the top… You know when he gets chances he’ll bury them.” Anyway the supporters can have a Vardy-party if Kane’s luck runs out.