England and Ghana moved closer to securing places in the World Cup round of 32 after settling for a goalless draw in Foxborough.
The tightly contested Group L encounter ended without a breakthrough as both teams struggled to create clear scoring opportunities.
The result leaves England at the top of the group with four points.
Ghana also have four points but trail England on goal difference heading into the final round of matches.
England will face Panama in their last group fixture, with victory expected to guarantee top spot.
A first-place finish would earn Thomas Tuchel’s side a round-of-32 clash in Atlanta on July 1.
England entered the match on the back of an impressive 4-2 victory over Croatia.
Their attacking display against Croatia had raised expectations of another dominant performance.
However, Ghana’s disciplined defensive approach limited England’s attacking threat throughout the encounter.
The Black Stars remained compact and organised, denying England space in dangerous areas.
Despite controlling possession for long periods, England rarely tested the Ghanaian defence.
The European side struggled to create meaningful chances against a determined opponent.
Ghana nearly earned a crucial penalty in the 79th minute.
The incident occurred when England defender Ezri Konsa appeared to bring down substitute Prince Adu inside the penalty area.
Match officials waved away the appeals despite strong protests from the Ghanaian camp.
England’s frustrating evening was highlighted by a late miss from captain Harry Kane.
The striker fired over the crossbar from close range with the goal at his mercy.
The draw leaves qualification hopes firmly in the hands of both teams.
Croatia and Panama were scheduled to meet later on Tuesday in another key Group L fixture.
Meanwhile, Croatia captain Luka Modric prepared for a significant milestone.
The veteran midfielder is set to make his 200th appearance for the national team.
Only three male players have recorded more international appearances than the Croatian star.
Away from the pitch, FIFA President Gianni Infantino confirmed that United States President Donald Trump will attend the World Cup final.
Infantino said Trump would be present at the final in New Jersey on July 19.
“We will be together with the president enjoying the final and handing the trophy to the winner, of course, together,” Infantino said.
In another development, France coach Didier Deschamps temporarily left the team’s camp following the death of his mother.
His absence means assistant coach Guy Stephan will oversee preparations for France’s final group match.
France require only a draw against Norway to secure first place in their group.
