Masefield points to Australia and Cape Verde as examples of teams finding value in deep defensive organisation. Australia’s performance against Turkiye is among the best defensive displays he has seen at a World Cup, he says, while New Zealand have shown “how simple and how beautiful the game is” through a more direct approach.
The contrast has been stark. Germany’s 7-1 victory over Curacao was followed by Spain being held 0-0 by Cape Verde, leaving Masefield’s assessment of the opening round as “hit and miss”.
The results underline a broader point: there is no single route to success. Against compact opponents, patient possession can become sterile, while a well-drilled low block and quick forward passes can disrupt even the strongest sides.
Masefield is equally interested in the culture Thomas Tuchel is building with England. Rather than focusing solely on individual talent, he describes the team as “a squad, it’s a togetherness”, with Tuchel maintaining the group-first principles associated with Gareth Southgate.
That unity could become decisive when matches tighten and big reputations are placed under pressure. Other reports have also highlighted the challenge of maintaining continuity around England’s attacking options, making collective strength even more important.
Masefield’s surprise champion pick is Portugal. He has “a sneaky inkling” that the team could create a farewell moment for Cristiano Ronaldo similar to Argentina’s triumph with Lionel Messi.
Germany, meanwhile, have already “laid down a little marker”, although Masefield believes Portugal and France may possess greater depth.
The next rounds will reveal whether early defensive resistance and direct play are lasting trends or simply opening-week caution. England’s cohesion, Portugal’s experience and the response of the traditional favourites now form the tournament’s central storylines.