Scoreless Draw Between England And Algeria Leaves Four Teams Alive In Group C

England was held to a 0-0 draw against Algeria in the late match Friday, leaving the Three Lions in third place of Group C at the 2010 World Cup. Algeria, now on one point, sits fourth in the group. Both teams needing a win next Wednesday to advance to the knockout stage.

It was one of the most unwatchable matches of the tournament, sparking comparisons to last Friday’s France-Uruguay match and Sunday’s Slovenia-Algeria fixture. England had five shots on goal to Algeria’s one, but the Three Lions never looked poised for a goal a Frank Lampard chance early in the match. Likewise, Algeria showed little aptitude for a goal, and as the match wore on the Desert Foxes looked content to take their draw.

England and Algeria are scoreless after forty-five minutes having spent the first half of Friday’s third match attempting to convince Americans that soccer is an over-hyped sport that will never appeal to the masses.

Perhaps that’s an overreaction, particularly after Slovenia and the United States gave us one of the most exciting matches of the tournament, but any soccer fans won over by the States’ incredible comeback against the Slovenes is being undone.

In what was expected to be the easiest match of their group, England must get three points.

Barry’s presence will also be critical to covering for Ashley Cole, whose width will be helpful when England packs Algeria deep into their own area. Barry, a natural left-footed player, will be able to slide left and cover for the advancing fullback, limiting England’s exposure to Algeria’s counter.