English-born Ghanaian youngster, Kobbie Mainoo, made a significant impact on his first start for England in their international friendly against Belgium at Wembley Stadium.
The 18-year-old Manchester United midfielder, who made his debut against Brazil on Saturday, was awarded the player of the match despite being substituted in the 74th minute by coach Gareth Southgate.
The match started on a high note with Belgium taking the lead in the 11th minute after a goalkeeping error by Jordan Pickford. Pickford’s misplaced pass was intercepted by Amadou Onana, who quickly found Youri Tielemans to score.
However, England responded swiftly in the 15th minute. Mainoo showed his class, combining well with Jude Bellingham to set up Ivan Toney, who was fouled by Vertonghen in the box. Toney stepped up and converted the penalty to level the scores.
Belgium regained the lead in the 36th minute through Tielemans, capitalizing on another England error. However, the Three Lions showed resilience and were rewarded in stoppage time.
Bellingham scored a dramatic equalizer in the 90+5 minute to secure a 2-2 draw, with Mainoo playing a crucial role in midfield.
Kobbie Mainoo’s stats: 65 touches, 2 key passes, 89% pass accuracy, one shot on target, one big chance missed, 5 ground duels won, two tackles, and one interception.
