Rice says England should be upbeat despite World Cup stalemate

BOSTON: Midfielder Declan Rice was upbeat after England were held to a goalless draw by Ghana on Tuesday, saying they still had a strong chance of winning their World Cup group.

England had hoped to secure qualification for the last 32 by beating Ghana in Boston but now have work to do when they face Panama in their final Group L game on Saturday.

“It is always difficult when you play against 11 behind the ball as deep as they were, but you have to find solutions. In the last 10 minutes we were unlucky not to score,” Rice said.

“We still have a great chance to top the group against Panama so positivity all round,” Rice added.

Rice praised Ghana for a defensive performance that gives the Black Stars a chance of reaching the knockout phase alongside England.

“You have to give credit to Ghana. It’s tough and they are good players so it was never going to be an easy game,” the Arsenal player said.

“Loads of top nations draw the first game so there is no need to be negative or downbeat. We will stay positive,” he added.