Gareth Southgate is having his last dance with the Three Lions at the Euro 2024. However, England will enter the finals in Berlin as a probable underdog after their dismantled performance in the group stages and lagging in every knockout game.
The Spaniards on the other hand have had the most thrilling and exciting campaign they could before the finals, as they entered the finals after defeating the most promising opponents of Croatia, Italy, Germany and France, unlike England who played only against sloppy opponents.
England has often come from the back, but Spain has been the highest scorer as well as the team who has conceded the least goals. Southgate is dreaming of ending their 58-year-long drought of international trophies and that could only be achieved if they inform La Roja who are obviously favourites can be sunk in the Euro 2024 finals.
Best Probable Tactics against the La Roja
Simon to be targeted
The Spanish goalkeeper has had a great season so far, however, he has been the only place the Spaniards have lacked. Playing in whichever tournament for his national side, the Athletic Club goalie has made fumbles in front of goal.
His mistakes have often cost Spain a lot, as sometimes they have cost the match, with the recent most coming in their outing against Croatia. The Croatian legend Modric took a penalty due to Simon’s mistake which was saved by the goalie though.
ALSO READ: Euro 2024: England vs. Spain Key Player Battles
Quick on Counter-attacks
Southgate needs to motivate his side and provide them with players who can match up with Spain’s high-paced game. Though tough, the Spaniards have seemed to trouble on counters whenever they have lost possession over the ball.
England must be looking to get the ball to Bukayo Saka or Phil Foden to quickly transit into an attacking position and not let the Spanish defence reach their mark. Already said under pressure Simon is often seen struggling.
Yamal to be denied liberty
Lamine Yamal, the rising sensation and a superstar in the making, is probably Spain’s unstoppable force in the Euro 2024. Southgate is expected to learn from France’s mistake of letting Yamal have his control over the game.
Whenever on a move, he should be potently blocked and his runs should be restricted, only this could stop the FCB youngster from causing damage at the English goal.
Make use of the bench
La Roja does not have as good a bench as the English, as England’s substitutes Palmer and Watkins contributed to over 66 goals in the PL last season. Watkins will be filled with confidence after being England’s magic sub in the semi-final rescue against the Oranje.
These players alongside Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo and Eberechi Eze will be England’s most exciting talents to appear as Fresh legs. The switching side of England can bring in more pace alongside them.
Disorient Rodri
Though Yamal and Nico Williams have been in the buzz for Spain, the gem who is hidden among the stars, the Man City mid-fielder Rodri is the most vital player of the side. Said to be the talisman, the Man City man holds irreplaceable winning streaks with both his national and club sides.
Rodri can never be made to lose possession, also can he be intercepted is a major question, as he is never restricted on the field. Also, his role play in the defensive half makes him the biggest potent threat to the opposition whom teams often seem to neglect.
Take the Game to Shootouts
The Game to be taken to the penalties is what seems most probable for the English side. Not before for England, but under Southgate they have been quite firm on penalties. And especially with Pickford having the best season in his entire career and having done the homework, England might look to take the game into the shootouts, where they may proceed against the Spaniards who are a bit tumbling in the area.
