The Euro 2024 final is set and England are one of the sides that will travel to the Olimpiastadion in Berlin to fight for the continental crown. They will share the stage with Spain, the ultimate surprise package of the competition. Can Gareth Southgate’s men bring football home and their nation’s 58-year wait for an international title?
Euro 2024 Final Preview: How the Teams Look
Spain
To claim Spain were not one of the likeliest teams to make a final run in Euro 2024 should sound a bit harsh. La Furia Roja have won the competiiton three times and also a former world champion. They are also the current holders of the UEFA Nation’s League. So, why the skeptcism?
The Iberian nation has severely underperformed in recent men’s major tournaments, other than Euro 2021. While they made it to the semifinals last time around, Spain followed up with a dismal round of 16 exit in the 2022 World Cup.
In fact, Spain have failed to make it to the last eight of the World Cup quarterfinals in their last three attempts. Their 2016 Euro campaign also ended with a round of 16 run.
Given their recent struggles in big tournaments and the inexperience of the side, Spain came to Germany as a dark horse. Luis de la Fuente’s men, however, defied all expectations and went on a remarkable run.
They made history as the first team to win six consecutive matches in the European championships. En route to the Euro 2024 final, they overcame the likes of Italy, Croatia, Germany, and France. Therefore, they will be confident of maintaining their 100% record by beating England on Sunday.
England
It has been a mixed bag of a tournament for most England fans. There have been widespread criticism about the Three Lions’ performance throughout the tournament. Despite that, they remain one of the last two standing.
In terms of flamboyance, England have been lacking. They won only two matches out of the six they played within 90 minutes. Beer cups rained down onto the pitch, supporters were embarrassingly caught napping in the stands, and Southgate was mercilessly mocked on social media – these are hardly the hallmarks of a triumphant tournament.
Yet, England have persisted! Whether it was a last minute Jude Bellingham bycycle kick or a Bukayo Saka cut in, moments of magic continue to materialiase out of nowhere when all hopes seem lost.
England haven’t exactly set the world alight with their performances, but they’ve been pragmatic and effective. Southgate will be desperate for his players to show some resilience and nick another victory, banishing the lingering Wembley nightmare that still haunts them from their last final defeat.
England vs Spain Preview – Team News
Spain
Defence has not been Spain’s strength in this stellar run, but they will be happy welcome back Robin Le Normand and Dani Carvajal back to the team. Both were suspended in the France match, so their return gives the Spanish backline a massive boost.
Their midfield, however, without the mercurial Pedri once again. The Barcelona youngster has been out of action since suffering a knee injury in the quarterfinals against Germany.
Alvaro Morata bizarrely clashed into a running security guard in the semifinals. There were concerns about his fitness after the incident, but the veteran has trained ahead of the match. So, he should be ready to walk out of the talent with the first XI on Sunday.
England
England have no suspensions or injuries to worry about ahead of the big match. Any changes in the squad will be made for purely tactical reasons. Southgate is expected to go with the same lineup that knocked the Oranje out.
Euro 2024 Final Prediction
England might fancy their chances of grinding out another win this weekend, but they face their sternest test yet. Spain have been close to flawless on the pitch. Their midfield controlled the tempo magnificently against both France and Germany, even without Pedri pulling the strings. To make matters worse, Spain boast a potent attack brimming with pace, guile, and firepower. It’s a tough ask for England to beat this energetic Spanish team.
We predict Spain beating England by 2-1.
