England confirm top spot with goalless draw against Iraq

England U20s secured the top spot in their U-20 World Cup group after a hard-fought 0-0 draw against Iraq.

Having won their first two matches of the tournament, the Young Lions entered this game knowing that avoiding defeat against Iraq would ensure they finished at the summit of Group E.

As a result of finishing at the top of their group, the Young Lions will now face Italy in the round of 16. Italy secured second place in Group D, with both Brazil and Nigeria also amassing six points.

Head coach Ian Foster made five changes to the starting lineup for this match, providing opportunities for different players. Sharman-Lowe's appearance as a substitute in the second half meant that every member of the squad who was available in the group stage has now played in the tournament.

In the first half, England displayed their superiority, with Harvey Vale forcing a good save from goalkeeper Hussein Hasan, and Daniel Oyegoke hitting the post with an effort from the right wing-back position.

Despite Sam Edozie having a goal disallowed, and a VAR check leading to a penalty being awarded, Liam Delap's powerful spot-kick was saved by Hasan in a remarkable display of goalkeeping.

In the second half, England U20s created fewer opportunities, but Iraq continued to threaten, requiring Sharman-Lowe to make another fantastic save to deny them a goal.

In the dying minutes of injury time, the Young Lions almost snatched a victory when substitute Daniel Jebbison struck the crossbar with a volley, but the match ended in a draw.

Overall, the result ensured England's progression to the next round, and will not meet Italy in the Last 16 of the U20 World Cup in Argentina.

Tonight's game ends goalless, which is enough for our #YoungLions to secure top spot in #U20WC Group E!

They'll play Italy in the Round of 16 on Wednesday 👊 pic.twitter.com/nTyfSLz6GP

— England (@England) May 28, 2023