As England prepares for the UEFA Euro 2024 final, the anticipation is palpable. The memory of their heart-wrenching Euro 2020 loss against Italy in penalties lingers, but there is a renewed sense of hope and determination to ease that pain. Under the astute guidance of manager Gareth Southgate, the Three Lions have crafted a journey that many believe could culminate in their first major trophy in 58 years.
Southgate, ever composed, exudes confidence as he leads his team to back-to-back Euros finals. Remarkably, he has now won more tournament knockout games than any other England manager since 1966 combined. This weekend’s final, England’s first major final outside of London, presents a golden opportunity to solidify his legacy.
The path to the final has been anything but straightforward. England’s semifinal against the Netherlands was a nail-biter, with Ollie Watkins scoring a dramatic last-minute goal in extra time to secure their place. Their best performance of the tournament by some distance, the match showcased a team with growing momentum and a surging belief in their destiny.
England’s journey has been marked by late-game heroics. Jude Bellingham’s 95th-minute equaliser against Slovakia, the penalty shootout victory over Switzerland, and Watkins’ last-gasp winner against the Netherlands have fostered a feeling of inevitability. There’s a sense that this could finally be England’s moment.
Key to England’s success has been the blossoming chemistry among their attacking talents. Combinations between Kobbie Mainoo, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka have been electrifying. Meanwhile, Jordan Pickford has elevated his game, delivering crucial saves that have kept England in contention.
However, their final opponent, Spain, is a formidable force. Spain’s journey to the final has been flawless, winning all six matches, including a thrilling 2-1 victory over heavyweight France in the semifinals. Young prodigy Lamine Yamal has been a revelation, becoming the youngest player to feature and score in a UEFA European Championship at just 16 years and 362 days. His stunning goal against France underscores his immense talent.
Ollie Watkins acknowledges the challenge Yamal presents: “He is an unbelievable talent, everyone has seen what he can do. He is a generational talent; it’s not often you are scoring goals against France into the top corner. He is miles ahead of me at 16, 17.”
The race for the Golden Boot adds another layer of intrigue. England’s Harry Kane and Spain’s Dani Olmo are neck and neck, each vying for the prestigious accolade.
Possible line-ups for the final suggest a tactical battle:
Spain: Simón; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Ruiz, Rodri, Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams
England: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guéhi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
England’s strategy will likely focus on exploiting Spain’s high defensive line. If they can break through the press and create chances, they have the attacking prowess to make a difference. Spain, on the other hand, will lean on their strengths, looking to control the game and capitalize on any weaknesses in England’s setup.
With an average of 2.28 goals per match across the tournament, fans can expect an exciting and hard-fought final. As the countdown to the final begins, England stands on the brink of history. Can they overcome Spain and lift the UEFA Euro 2024 trophy? The world will be watching.
