Sports
Spain vs. England: Predicting the Euro 2024 final
Euro 2024 final is only hours upon us as it sets England and Spain into hostile tides for a chance to be crowned Champions of Europe for the first time in years, and for England, probably their first title since the World Cup win in 1966.
However, it is easier said than ticking a green sign over the likely winner of the final. At this moment, there obviously stands no favorite with an edge over the other whatsoever. England has what it takes to get over Spain, and La Roja has all it takes to get over Gareth Southgate’s side should they sniff an opening.
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Fair play to Spain however, is the reality that the Three Lions of England ever since the tournament, have only managed to hang in there and avoid elimination by the barest of lucks. To put plainly, luck has seen them push their way into the final, with some added heroics from specific players like Bukayo Saka, Jude Bellingham and penalty shenanigans of Jordan Pickford to push past Switzerland a few games back.
Unlike Spain, the English side haven’t put up a convincing performance that cements themselves as a side to be feared or that is threatening. Ironically, that in itself is a threat only. They don’t play the best football, but for some reason have been able to get to the final over the likes of Germany, Croatia and Netherlands.
One certainly doesn’t get to a final based on luck alone. It means they are doing something right; something that no one else is seeing.
But that was what the narratives said about France who since the tournament started only managed to score 1 goal from open play, with the rest coming from own goals, spot kicks or set pieces. Their end, ironically came when they met Spain.
Would a similar fate meet England when they face Spain?
It is hard to say. However, looking at tactical play, Gareth Southgate should be ready to have his full backs work their socks off, and have their midfield at alert to block passes or intercept them whenever they come. If the Three Lions can achieve that, they stand a chance to nullify whatever Spain come up with.
But how do they get at Spain?
Now, this stands the tricky question. England has deadly wingers that can hurt Spain on the counter, which is something Gareth Southgate would be looking at whenever the Three Lions break the line and move on the attack. If they can silence the midfield output of Rodri, catch the likes of Marc Cucurella off guard, they are only a cross away from scoring.
However, La Roja would not make it that simple for the Three Lions.
Predicting the tie, we see this game going into penalties with a 0-0 score line at Full Time of all 4 halves.