England by way of to Euro 2024 knockout phases with out taking part in closing group sport
England have secured their place in the Euro 2024 last 16 even before their final group match against Slovenia, thanks to a little assistance from Spain.
Despite receiving criticism for their performance against Denmark last week, Gareth Southgate’s squad, led by captain Harry Kane, have guaranteed their spot in the knockout stages with a game to spare.
The Three Lions currently lead Group C with four points from two matches ahead of Tuesday night’s clash.
This is due to Albania’s failure to defeat a significantly altered Spanish team in Group B. Spain made 10 changes following consecutive victories over Croatia and Italy.
This means that even if England face defeat on Tuesday, they cannot drop below third place in their group.
(Image: Anadolu via Getty Images)
Even in the worst-case scenario – losing to Slovenia and Denmark defeating Serbia – England would still be among the top four third-placed teams in the tournament, having already accumulated four points. This is more than what third-placed teams in Group A (Hungary) and Group B (Croatia) have managed, with both groups now completed, reports the Mirror.
Despite a whopping 10 changes made by head coach Luis de la Fuente to the team that triumphed over Italy, La Roja proved too powerful for Sylvinho’s squad in Dusseldorf. Albania, needing a win to progress, had lost all their previous eight encounters with Spain.
From the moment Ferran Torres netted the first goal in the 13th minute – marking his 20th goal in 44 games for his nation – they never seemed likely to turn the tide.
Albania’s only significant opportunity came just past the hour mark when a swift freekick caught Spain’s defence off guard, but Armando Broja’s attempted lob was deflected by David Raya.
Despite a late push, they failed to score, let alone the two goals they required.
They return home. Spain advance to the knockout stages.
