4 June 2053 – Stadio Olimpico, Rome
Argentina 0–2 England
European/South American Super Cup
England struck early and held firm to claim the European/South American Super Cup with a 2–0 win over Argentina at the Stadio Olimpico. In a match defined by two ruthless moments and a wall of white-shirted resilience, Peter Mutiu and Adam Beckford scored within eight minutes to break the South Americans’ resistance and silence the Roman night.
⚡ Lightning Start
England didn’t wait around. Peter Mutiu opened the scoring in the 4th minute with a composed finish after a sweeping team move down the right. Before Argentina could reset, Adam Beckford ghosted into the area to head home from a flicked corner just four minutes later. England 2–0 up inside eight minutes, Argentina stunned.
Despite boasting nearly even xG (ENG 0.68 – ARG 0.65), the scoreboard told the story of clinical execution versus speculative build-up. Argentina, led by Mario Cardozo and Locatelli, pushed with urgency but found little joy against England’s well-drilled shape.
🧱 Defensive Masterclass
Joby Holwell, recently crowned Champions League winner with Chelsea, once again showed his quality on the international stage. A perfect 100% pass completion, assured handling, and a key late save secured his Player of the Match award (7.7 rating).
In front of him, Patrick Uzochukwu (despite a booking), Jerry Haylock, and Luther Banton repelled every Argentine cross and cutback. England’s back four maintained a compact unit that blunted Argentina’s inside-forwards and central overloads.
🎯 Tactical Shape and Fluidity
England set up in a 4-2-3-1 with Beckford and Asonganyi sharing defensive midfield duties behind Jenkins. Haigh and Mutiu offered width, while Paul Malcolm led the line with his usual blend of physicality and precision.
Malcolm didn’t score but remained a focal point, dragging defenders and creating pockets for Jenkins and Mutiu. The Real Madrid striker finished with a 7.2 rating—another quiet but commanding outing for the 34-year-old veteran.
📊 Match Stats
- Goals: Mutiu (4’), Beckford (8’)
- Shots: England 8, Argentina 8
- xG: England 0.68, Argentina 0.65
- Possession: 52% England
- Player of the Match: Joby Holwell (7.7)
🏆 Statement Victory
This win adds another title to England’s trophy-laden era. With a blend of trusted veterans like Malcolm and rising stars like Mutiu, the team continues to evolve under watchful leadership. Not flashy—but effective, precise, and entirely deserving.
Another night, another medal. England’s winning machine rolls on.