At half-time, the England vs. Finland match was deadlocked with neither team able to break the other down. The low block of Finland frustrated England in the first half as they struggled to find a way through.
Harry Kane almost found the breakthrough when he headed in a cross from Bukayo Saka, but he was ruled offside by inches. Trent Alexander-Arnold also came close with a long-range effort that just missed the target.
England dominated possession and pushed Finland back into their own half for most of the first period. Despite their dominance, Finland held firm at the back and will be looking to maintain their defensive shape in the second half.
Prediction at half-time: England 1-0 Finland
Looking ahead to Tuesday’s match against Finland, Lee Carsley will be hoping to continue his winning start as England’s caretaker manager. Carsley oversaw a 2-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland in his first match in charge.
In that game, Declan Rice and Jack Grealish, both former Ireland internationals, scored against their former team. While England showed attacking intent in the first half, they failed to add to their lead in the second period.
Despite the mixed performance, Carsley has earned praise and has put himself in contention for the permanent England manager job. The team currently sits second in their UEFA Nations League group, behind Greece only on goal difference.
The match preview sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting second half as England look to break the deadlock and secure a crucial victory at Wembley Stadium.
