Thomas Tuchel's England swept past Croatia 4-2 in Dallas, but the scoreline masked defensive fragilities that could prove costly if their World Cup path leads to Mexico City's Azteca Stadium — a venue 2,200 metres above sea level where the hosts have lost just twice in 60 years.
The victory was built on an attacking display that stirred excitement, yet Tuchel must now decide whether to stick or twist for Tuesday's group match against Ghana in Boston. His decision to start Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa ahead of Marc Guehi alongside John Stones raised eyebrows, and Konsa was caught out of position when Petar Musa scored Croatia's second equaliser. Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford needed a vital save from Igor Matanovic at 3-2 before substitute Marcus Rashford settled nerves with England's fourth goal.
“England face potential last-16 clash with Mexico at high altitude as Tuchel weighs defence and Rashford's future.”
Rashford, who replaced starter Anthony Gordon on the left flank, also carries personal uncertainty. Barcelona declined to trigger a £26m clause to make his loan permanent, meaning the forward will officially return to Manchester United on 1 July with a £325,000-a-week contract and two years remaining. United's minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe wants to reduce wage costs, and boss Michael Carrick has said no decision has been made. United gave Rashford's number 10 shirt to Matheus Cunha last season and are rebuilding in the belief he will not be part of their plans.
Tuchel's selection at centre-back remains a dilemma. Former England striker Chris Sutton told BBC Sport: "Why is the debate Guehi for Konsa and not Stones? I'd have Guehi and Konsa because they are the best defenders." Sutton added that Stones, who has only started five Premier League games this season, lacks the athleticism of the other two.
Meanwhile, England's potential knockout route has sharpened. Hosts Mexico have secured top spot in Group A after beating South Korea 1-0, meaning if England top Group L and win their Round of 32 fixture in Atlanta, they face a last-16 tie at the Azteca. The altitude and high pollution levels make it notoriously difficult for visiting teams, and the game would kick off at 1am back in England. As one source put it, "if they want to win the World Cup, they will have to overcome these kind of challenges."