An open ended Group B on Matchday 3 has the potential to be a dramatic and entertaining affair, but it turned out to be the complete opposite as both sides played out a dull 0-0 draw.
England controlled possession from the start of the game and they would have gotten a goal or two, if not for Matus Kozacik’s outstanding form in between the sticks. The Slovakians were pressured deep into their half as they can only rely on petty counter-attacks with playmaker Marek Hamsik barely getting a touch of the ball.
It was a similar showing in the 2nd half with both sides sharing the spoils after 90 minutes. Wales’ 3-0 victory against Russia ensured qualification for the Three Lions from the second spot with Slovakia occupying third.
Here are the 3 most impressive players in a game filled with frustrations:
Nathaniel Clyne
Questions were asked when the Liverpool right-back was named as one of the 6 changes made by Roy Hodgson to the starting line-up, replacing the in-form Kyle Walker. He responded with a solid performance to control both ends of his flank as he threatened the opposition’s box with dangerous crosses and keeping Vladimir Weiss in check. Kozacik’s inspirational form in goal was the only thing that prevented Clyne from getting an assist.
Matus Kozacik
Star player Marek Hamsik had been making the headlines for Jan Kozak’s side in their first two games, but in a game where he was mostly nullified, shot-stopper Kozacik proved to be a reliable figure when he was called upon. He played a huge role in securing the hard earned clean sheet by the Slovakians, denying the likes of Adam Lallana, Dele Alli and Jamie Vardy.
Martin Skrtel
The Slovakian skipper was instrumental in denying England a breakthrough, with his most important contribution being a goal line clearance from Alli’s volley. The usually hot-headed centre-back managed to keep his cool throughout the game to rally his team in a defensive performance full of grit and determination.
Other posts by Kin Boon Ah
