23/04 - 20:00
23/04 - 20:00
England were held at Wembley by Hungary after a disappointing 1-1 draw in their World Cup qualifiers on Tuesday night.
Action: The opening stages of the game were not memorable with visiting Hungarian fans clashing with police in the stands.
After a semblance of order had been restored, Hungary took the lead in the 24th minute, when Luke Shaw tried to flashily half-volley a clearance and only succeeded in catching Loic Nego with a high boot inside the box. From the spot, Roland Sallai converted the penalty.
The Three Lions struggled to settle into their game, but managed to level when John Stones guided home Phil Foden's free kick eight minutes before the break.
The second-half was similar to the first period, with English players generally looking like they were having an off day. The few times they threatened any danger were through set-pieces, but they were unable to breach a well-organised Hungarian side's rearguard for a second time.
All in all, it was a disappointing night for England, but credit must be given to a solid display from the visitors, who fully deserved to take a point back to Hungary.
Big Picture: This result leaves England top of the group on 20 points, and despite the draw, they are still in pole position to win the group via their remaining games against Albania and San Marino next month.
The game was, in some ways, overshadowed by the clashes between Hungarian fans and the police moments after the kick-off.
The FA has said it has opened an investigation. "We are aware of an incident in the away section during tonight’s Fifa 2022 World Cup Qualifier at Wembley Stadium. We will be investigating and will report the incident to FIFA.”
This incident follows Hungary being ordered to play two games behind closed doors by FIFA after England players suffered racist abuse in the reverse game.
xG: England (2.26) 1-1 (1.10) Hungary
🗣 "We weren't fluid and we didn't play at the level we need to play, as simple as that."
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) October 12, 2021
Gareth Southgate discusses @England's "disappointing performance" against Hungary at Wembley
🎤 @GabrielClarke05 #ITVFootball | #ThreeLions pic.twitter.com/eKHogno5Ll
1-1 | ||
John Stones 37' | Roland Sallai 24' (pen.) |
