A FOX Sports commentator took a playful jab at England’s history Tuesday as the Three Lions stumbled to a scoreless draw against Ghana in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
FOX lead soccer play-by-play announcer John Strong reminded viewers that England has not always fared well in the Bay State shortly following kickoff at Gillette Stadium in Foxborough, Massachusetts, The Sporting News reported. The game was England’s second match of the FIFA Word Cup group stage, according to ESPN. (RELATED: Legendary Soccer Player Thierry Henry Left Stunned After Fellow Analyst Zlatan Ibrahimovic Hits Back At American Stars)
“But as we know, the English historically struggle here in Massachusetts,” Strong said during the broadcast.
The comment has been interpreted as a reference to the American Revolutionary War, when British forces suffered a series of setbacks in Massachusetts that ultimately helped fuel the colonies’ fight for independence. Massachusetts was home to several key moments that helped spark the Revolution, including the Boston Massacre and the Boston Tea Party, before the war officially began with battles in Lexington and Concord.
“But as we know the English historically struggle here in Massachusetts.” – @JohnStrong early on in the match
England remains without a goal after 65 minutes… pic.twitter.com/qVH63EXinf
— FOX Soccer (@FOXSoccer) June 23, 2026
The comment quickly gained traction online, with many commentators praising the remark. “The English came for revenge. The goals apparently missed the flight,” one wrote. (RELATED: God Save The Brisket: World Cup Tourist Goes Full Texan Mode In Reminder Why ‘Murica Is The GOAT)
“Low-key brilliant,” wrote another.
He waited weeks to deliver that line,” a third said.
Boston Sports Journal founder Greg Bedard also wrote a post that read, “Heavily favored, confident England bogged down in an unexpected slog in Massachusetts. Sounds familiar.”
After opening its World Cup campaign with a 4-2 victory over Croatia, Thomas Tuchel’s squad failed to find a breakthrough against Ghana despite dominating possession, according to Reuters.









