# England beat Spain with crosses

> England can score against Spain by crossing the ball into the box
- Title: England beat Spain with crosses · the Guardian | Shortify
- Summary: England can score against Spain by crossing the ball into the box Crosses are the most effective way to score against Spain's defense
- Keywords: england, spain, crosses, tuchel, world cup, football, spanish defense, england football, crossing, spain world cup, sports, beat
- Source: the Guardian — https://theguardian.com/football/2026/sep/26/how-do-england-beat-spain-or-even-score-against-them-the-data-suggests-crosses
- Published: 2026-09-26T07:00:30+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: england, spain, crosses, tuchel, world cup, football, spanish defense, england football, crossing, spain world cup, sports
## Tuchel's challenge
England must play differently to beat Spain's strong defense

> There is no heritage of: 'Oh, let's control around the middle line. Let's do a deep buildup and then bring them out'
## Spain's defense weakness
Spain conceded six high-value chances in 750 minutes this summer

> For me, this is not football
## McTominay's impact
Scott McTominay scored twice against Spain in Scotland

> Rodri said after enduring the home side's combative approach
## Crosses work
Spain's defense struggles with crosses from wide areas

> Cristiano Ronaldo had a relatively high value effort after a cross
## World Cup data
Spain conceded only one goal in eight games at the World Cup

> The highest value shot they allowed occurred in the 121st minute
## Tuchel's strategy
Tuchel wants England to play more like Spain but it's not possible

> There is no heritage of: 'Oh, let's control around the middle line'
## Crossing effectiveness
Crosses are the most efficient way to score against Spain

> Cubarsí and laporte each contested fewer than four aerial duels per 90 minutes
## England's chance
Trent Alexander-Arnold can deliver a cross to Harry Kane

> If trent alexander-arnold is keen to get back into tuchel's good books
## Key takeaway

Crosses are the most effective way to score against Spain's defense