Wright then headed home on 58 minutes in a 1–0 win over Egypt in Cagliari in England's final group match. It was Wright's only goal for his country but it proved a vital one as it ensured England would qualify for the last 16 as Group F winners. Wright helped England keep another clean sheet against Belgium in the knockout stages and a late David Platt goal in extra-time set up a meeting with Cameroon in the last eight. Wright was forced off with a head injury as England trailed 2–1 but after being patched up he ended the game in a defensive midfield role and Gary Lineker's two penalties helped England qualify after extra-time. Wright also played the full 120 minutes in the semi-final against West Germany but England lost on penalties after 1–1 draw. Wright then got through 72 minutes as England lost the third-place play-off 2–1 against the host country Italy in Bari.