England's and the United States' World Cup group openers didn't hint at this outcome. The Three Lions strolled to a 6-2 triumph over Iran, while the U.S. ran out of steam in a disappointing 1-1 draw with Wales – but their meeting Friday drew a blank.

Nil-nil, but not necessarily a bore draw.

Here are three reasons why the USMNT kept England at arm's length in Qatar.

Ball-playing defenders don't play ball

It started just a few minutes into the first half. Harry Maguire to John Stones, to Maguire, to Stones, to Maguire – the ball lazily clicking back and forth like a metronome in the bedroom of a doom metal artist testing a forlorn, sludgy riff.

In some ways, it was understandable. Declan Rice was often the only player ahead of the defense showing for the ball, and the U.S. midfield was organized and ready to pounce. But it was also ruinously risk-averse and set the tone for an uninspiring England performance. Stones completed all of his 51 passes in his first half, but none were noteworthy.

There was no incisiveness. A few snappy exchanges through the center could've helped turn the tide. England simply needed more ambition from its center-backs.