"Kane's absence from the starting lineup was the consequence of a minor injury sustained in England's final training session yesterday. The 32-year-old's fitness record is generally excellent, but it is nevertheless the sort of situation that could arise in what England will be hopeful is a seven-game run at this summer's tournament."
"England's display against Japan was equally unconvincing. Instead of continuing with Solanke or Calvert-Lewin, he opted to play Phil Foden as a false nine with Cole Palmer operating in a central position."
"Palmer's most memorable contribution was to give the ball away for what proved to be the match-winning goal, a slick move started and finished by Kaoru Mitoma as Japan became the first Asian nation ever to beat England."
"England had 19 shots, but none of them came from Foden, who was replaced on the hour mark after only 22 touches. England's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford registered 39."
Harry Kane's absence due to a minor injury led to England's 1-0 defeat against Japan, raising concerns about their World Cup prospects. Manager Thomas Tuchel experimented with different formations, including using Phil Foden as a false nine. Despite 19 shots, England struggled to create meaningful chances, with Foden's performance particularly disappointing. Japan's victory marked a historic win as the first Asian nation to defeat England, highlighting the team's vulnerabilities without their star striker Kane.
Read at ESPN.com
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