Gareth Southgate is hoping to end the trophy drought for England as the Three Lions will clash against Spain in the UEFA EURO 2024 final. England haven’t won a major international trophy since their World Cup win in 1966.
Gareth Southgate is keen to become the first manager to clinch silverware for England in the 21st century. However, the Three Lions have looked far from comfortable under Southgate. England are extremely strong on-paper. Although they have been exceptionally off-key on the field. The evident lack of team chemistry along with being out of creative ideas up-front is crystal clear. Regardless, one can hardly argue if they consider the results of England with Gareth Southgate.
Southgate has propelled the Three Lions to back-to-back European finals. Furthermore, England will be playing in the finals of a major tournament, away from home, for the first time in their history. Despite being thoroughly unconvincing, England would win their group in the EURO 2024. Additionally, they would endure difficult matches in their road to the finale.
The Three Lions would face the Oranje in the semi finals of the tournament. England would emerge victorious against the Netherlands in a narrow 2-1 win. Former Tottenham Hotspur striker Harry Kane would equalize form the penalty spot for England. Meanwhile, Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins would snatch the win for the The Three Lions in the 90th minute after coming on as a substitute.
Gareth Southgate and England eye redemption
England would reach the finals of EURO 2020 in a stunning fashion as the host nation. However, they would falter on penalties against Italy. Consequently, they would miss out on the title after being agonizingly close.
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice would recall Italy’s win as something that ‘haunts’ him. Rice said:
“Seeing Italy lift that trophy will haunt me forever.”
Meanwhile, Chelsea youngster Cole Palmer talked about how desperate English players are for a win. He told in an interview:
“I think if you’ve got to this final then you have to hopefully finish the job.”
Southgate has often received criticism for his coaching methods. However, his results cannot be neglected. The England coach would speak about his belief in dreams in the pre-match conference.
The Three Lions stare down La Roja challenge
Spain have been exceptional throughout the competition. They have hardly put a foot wrong so far. They would finish the group stage with a 100% record. Furthermore, they would eliminate host nation Germany. La Roja are the favorites to go all the way. Especially, considering their attractive brand of football and with history on their side.
Gareth Southgate would emphasize that England would have to be tactically perfect if they wish to get a result against Spain. He stated:
“Tactically we will have to be perfect as they are such a good side. But, you know, we are here.”
Meanwhile Spain manager Luis De La Fuente spoke highly of the opposition.
England haven’t been the most convincing of teams. Nevertheless, none of it matters if the Three Lions clinch a win against La Roja in the finals.
