England vs Algeria: A Must Win Match

England and Algeria are going to face each other in a ‘must win’ match of World Cup Football 2010 on 18 June. Both sides lost points in their opening matches as USA held England to a 1-1 draw, while ALgeria lost to Slovenia 1-0.

So, England and Algeria now occupy the bottom two places in Group C with Slovenia leading the table with 3 points. Though England and USA are level on point, the Algeria match is a crucial encounter for England.

England coach Fabio Capello has to deal with a number of things ahead of the match against Algeria. England knows that another slip up could bring them on the verge of getting eliminated from the World Cup at the group stage.

Injury has become a matter of concern for England. Ledley King would definitely miss the Algeria fixture as he picked up a groin injury in the first game. Reports also suggest that he may also miss the remaining of tournament. Jamie Carragher would most likely replace King at the centre of the defense where he would pair up with Terry.

The most important issue is who would be in the England goal against Algeria. It seems David James would be ready for the match, but given his recent injury Capello may opt to rest James. In that case, Joe Hart seems to be favorite to keep the goal following Green’s howler that let USA earn a point from the opening match.

Rooney also missed the morning session of training on Monday as he received a minor knock to his ankle against USA.

Algeria may not be favorite in the group, but the North Africans have high hopes as they have qualified for the World Cup after 24 years. However, Algeria did not have a good start in the tournament and their damage was doubled when striker Abdelkader Ghezzal received the marching order. So, the England match is a ‘do or die’ affair for the Algerians.