After an early exit in 1998, champions England arrived in 2002 with a point to prove. Under Sven-Göran Eriksson, they were ready to write the next chapter.
England showed enough quality to navigate the group stage, but their campaign ended in the knockout rounds before the latter stages.
England emerged from the group stage unbeaten, showing resilience in a tough opening round. They put on a commanding display against Denmark in the Round of 16, and were narrowly knocked out by Brazil in the Quarter-finals. The narrowest of defeats against Brazil ended what had been a promising tournament run.
2won2drawn1lost
6scored3conceded
Kept 3 clean sheets.
Michael Owen led England's attack with 2 goals 1 in the round of 16 and 1 in the quarter-finals at the 2002 World Cup.
Conceded in only 2 of 5 matches
The tactical mind behind England's 2002 campaign. A Swedish at the helm leading England at his first World Cup.
England's success was built on a solid defensive base, with goalkeeper David Seaman playing key role. Midfield control by Paul Scholes provided stability against Brazil's attacking prowess.
