A 9-2 aggregate scoreline over their main group rivals indicates that England’s early qualification for South Africa is fully deserved!
The most notable aspect of this fixture was the poor showing from Croatia – England have experienced tougher tests in this campaign against Kazakhstan and perhaps even Andorra. England’s line-up was predictable, with the only change from the qualifier in Kazakhstan being Aaron Lennon’s inclusion on the right in place of the injured Theo Walcott. The victory never really seemed in doubt after Lennon himself won an early penalty after making an assertive run into the box. Frank Lampard scored from the spot. Lennon also delivered for the second: his cross reached Steven Gerrard at the far post and his measured header found the net. Lennon’s performance at right-midfield was very bright and he should now be a squad fixture and may push Walcott for a place in the starting line-up.
It felt as though superiority could translate into lackadaisical ennui in the second-half as Croatia, despite some short periods of ball retention, were out of the game. However, England kept up the tempo to ensure that qualification was secured in redoubtable fashion. Gerrard and Lampard both doubled their tallies converting Rooney and Glen Johnson crosses respectively. Croatia frustratingly managed a reply with Johnson’s defensive weaknesses exposed on England’s right; and despite Robert Green’s best endeavours, Eduardo fired home from close range. To prevent the mood being dampened, Wayne Rooney added a fifth with a tap-in after goalkeeper Runje had fouled-up a clearance. Rooney continues to be the highest scorer over the qualifiers, and his form will be central to England’s World Cup aspirations.
This has been an impressive record-breaking campaign: England may not have played fluent and breathtaking football throughout the qualifiers, but they have ruthlessly despatched all opposition. Capello’s vision has not wavered and his favoured structure and personnel remain consistent and coherent - winning perhaps helps to keep the tinkermen in the media and stands relatively subdued!
8 Aaron Lennon: Winning the penalty and crossing for the second essentially won the game.
8 Gareth Barry: Played a key part in sustaining Croatia’s inertia.
8 Frank Lampard: Dominated the midfield with Barry and scored twice.7 Wayne Rooney: Influential performance supporting midfield and attack.
7 Steven Gerrard: Linked up well with teammates whilst drifting in from the left.
7 John Terry: A commanding display although Croatia didn’t present much of a test.6 Robert Green: Rarely tested; one great save and one not so great save led to the Croatia goal.
6 Matthew Upson: Solid enough, and established as first replacement at centre-back.
6 Emile Heskey: A familiar combination of selfless toil for the team and uncertainty in front of goal.
6 Ashley Cole: Despite a couple of slips, this was a decent shift.5 Glen Johnson: Looks more comfortable as a winger than a full-back. Could have given away a penalty, and his defensive shortcomings contributed to Croatia’s goal.
5 Jermain Defoe: Despite England’s second-half dominance he received little service.