As the Euro 2024 final approaches, football fans around the world are eagerly anticipating the clash between Spain and England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. Here’s a comprehensive preview of what to expect in this historic match.
Match Details
- Date: Sunday, July 14, 2024
- Kick-off: 8:00 PM BST (9:00 PM local time)
- Venue: Olympiastadion, Berlin
- TV Coverage: BBC One & ITV (UK)
Head-to-Head History
This will be the third meeting between Spain and England at the UEFA European Championship. Their previous encounters resulted in an England win in the 1980 group stage and an England victory on penalties after a 0-0 draw in the 1996 quarter-final.
Road to the Final
Spain
Spain has been in formidable form, winning all six of their matches at Euro 2024 – a record for a single edition of the tournament. They’ve scored 13 goals, conceding just four, showcasing both their attacking prowess and defensive solidity.
England
England’s journey has been more dramatic, with the team conceding first in all three of their knockout stage games. However, they’ve shown remarkable resilience, remaining unbeaten when conceding first in their last six Euro matches.
Tactical Analysis
Spain (4-3-3)
Spain is expected to maintain their 4-3-3 formation, with Unai Simon in goal, a back four of Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, and Cucurella, a midfield trio of Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, and Olmo, and an attacking trident of Yamal, Morata, and Williams.
England (3-4-2-1)
England is likely to stick with the 3-4-2-1 formation that has served them well in the knockout stages. The predicted lineup includes Pickford in goal; Walker, Stones, and Guehi in defense; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, and Shaw as wing-backs and central midfielders; Foden and Bellingham supporting Kane up front.
Key Players to Watch
- Lamine Yamal (Spain): The 17-year-old sensation has been a revelation, providing three assists in the tournament.
- Harry Kane (England): The England captain has scored more knockout stage goals at major tournaments than any other European player (9).
Managers’ Experience
Luis de la Fuente will be the third-oldest manager to take charge of a Euro final at 63 years and 23 days. Gareth Southgate becomes only the third manager to lead a team in consecutive Euro finals, following Helmut Schön and Berti Vogts.
With Spain’s perfect record and England’s resilience, this final promises to be a thrilling encounter. Spain aims to become the first team to win the Euros four times, while England seeks to end their 58-year wait for a major trophy. The stage is set for a historic night in Berlin.