England Edge past Croatia with a narrow win

Final Score 1-0

Sterling 57'

Eventhough Southgate has got plenty of talent in his bag, this England team need much more coordination especially in the midfield. Team had a sweet revenge moment against Croatia for their loss in World cup semi final against same opposition, but needed more convincing result. 

The result deciding moment came in the 57th minute when Leeds player Kevin Phillips found space just outside box of Croatia and pushed ball through for Sterling, who tapped it past Keeper after a moment of hesitation. Earlier, a brilliant left foot shoot from Foden hit the upright of Croatian goal in the first half, which he deserved to get the eventual prize. Later, Harry Kane and Sterling got good chances inside the box, they couldn't hit the target. 

England played a 4-2-3-1 against the World cup runners , Pickford at goal and Mings, Stones at Centre back positions. Philips and Declan Rice were positioned as CDMs after his experiments in friendly matches. Mount as CAM and Sterling, Foden as wingers along with lone forward captain Kane as expected. 

Team uses more wing attacks even with a good strong midfield line up and formation good for attack through centre. Defense looked really good. Kyle walker, Stones and Mings used their strength and experience to defend well. Southgate started using 4-2-3-1 formation just ahead of EURO campaign, in the friendly matches, in which team won for the same score. While defending, team is coming to shape, but during attacks, looks like team is yet to remember their change from 4-3-3 to 4-2-3-1. Also, I personally felt Sancho, Grealish should have given chance and Kalvert Lewin should have got atleast 20 min to play. 

Load of talent might be the main worry for England manager. This was the first time these midfielders playing together in this formation. They failed to create more chances even with possession and more passing. Transition to attack failed to form a counter due to lack of coordination. 

But, I dont think Southgate is going to keep the same team for the next match with So many good players are waiting on bench to show their things. Also, he can try 3-5-2 with this many players waiting on the bench, Kalvert Lewin and Kane as Forwards, with same Midfielders.