England will face Slovenia in the final round of fixtures in Group C on Tuesday, with both sides standing a chance of advancing into the next round. It’s a game with plenty riding on it at the Cologne Stadium, as it will also likely effect the outcome of the best third placed sides table.
By Matthew Smith
Gareth Southgate’s side have come under plenty of criticism since the tournament got under way, but they’re in a strong position to finish in first place. Still undefeated, England have ground out results so far, despite having yet to show their full potential.
England’s lack of attacking threat has been a key talking point throughout Euro 2024, and it’s no surprise. The Three Lions have managed just 25 touches inside the opposition box in the tournament, the lowest of all nations.
Keeping the ball out of the net hasn’t been a major issue at the other end, with England only conceding from a long-range Morten Hjulmand effort. Southgate’s men have limited the number of chances against them so far, with no side conceding fewer expected goals in the tournament.
Jude Bellingham’s performance in the opening game showed why he’s one of, if not the brightest talent in the game. With an average match rating of 7.49 so far, the travelling England faithful will be desperate to see him step up against their next opponent.
Slovenia have failed to win at Euro 2024, playing out two draws in Group C. As it stands, the Dragons sit in fourth place out of the best third-place teams in the tournament, meaning they will advance into the next round of the tournament.
Matjaž Kek’s side have been one of the most defensive teams in the competition so far, averaging just 35.8 per cent possession while touching the ball in the opposition box 28 times. They are now preparing for their toughest test on paper in England, but Denmark showed Southgate’s side can be vulnerable.
Slovenia’s forward partnership of Andraž Šporar and Benjamin Šeško have proven to be a threat despite failing to find the back of the net in the tournament, averaging 0.71 expected goals per 90 minutes between them. Šporar has created two big chances for his team-mates, but Kek’s men will need to show more of a clinical edge in front of goal.
It’s all to play for in Group C, with all four teams still in with a fighting chance of qualification.
(Cover image from IMAGO)
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