Outcry as England Star's 'TERRIBLE' Performance Fuels Calls for Removal After 2-1 Loss to Greece

In the UEFA Nations League game, Greece won historically 2-1 over England. Jude Bellingham pulled one back for England in the 87th minute; Vangelis Pavlidis was the standout for Greece, scoring twice in the 49th and 90th minutes. Under interim manager Lee Carsley, Pavlidis' clinical performance left England startled, their first loss. With Greece leading Group B2 with nine points and England behind with six, the tension of the game was clear from the twelve shots each side took and the fierce possession struggle. 

Also Read: Otamendi's Goal Goes To Waste As Messi And Argentina Held To A 1-1 Draw At The World Cup Qualifiers

England GK Jordan Pickford receives major backlash after team’s historic defeat to Greece

Following goalkeeper Jordan Pickford's underwhelming performance in England's 2-1 defeat to Greece on Thursday, fans voiced their annoyance on social media. Part of the Nations League group stage, Pickford struggled severely at Wembley Stadium, where he was seen as one of the less successful performers on the pitch which led to England lose its first ever match to Greece in the history. Although he only let in two goals, the scenario may have been a lot worse.

Jordan Pickford got into problems within ten minutes into the game as he was caught in possession when England tried to play from the back. Well beyond his area, he stopped too long on the ball, giving Vangelis Pavlidis opportunity. For Pickford, Levi Colwill cleared off the line from an Anastasios Bakasetas long-range attempt.

Jordan Pickford's problems continued a minute later as he mistook a punch from a corner for the ball reaching the goal. Luckily for him, a foul disallowed the goal, giving the 30-year-old yet another chance to keep a perfect record. Greece broke the tie in the 49th minute, however, with a goal from Pavlidis whose drive dropped beneath Pickford's reach and into the bottom-right corner.

In the 59th minute, the visitors almost increased their advantage, but a close offside ruling denied the goal. Greece found the net once again with only six minutes remaining in normal time, only for the attempt to be called out once more for offside.

Thanks to Jude Bellingham, England pulled one back in the 87th minute; the euphoria was fleeting. Pavlidis took advantage of the defensive mistakes the Three Lions were having to score from close range. Jordan Pickford's performance especially under close inspection revealed the team's general defensive shortcomings as Greece won 2-1.

England will now be seen in action against Finland on Sunday, October 13, 2024 as they currently stand 2nd in their group of the Nations League.