England scraped past Slovakia 2-1 in extra time and progressed to the Euro 2024 quarter-final.
Slovakia opened the scoring against the Three Lions in the 25th minute after a dominant opening from Francesco Clazona’s side. A collision between Marc Guehi and Ivan Schranz gave the Slovakian forward space to receive the ball in the England box and poked it past Jordan Pickford into the back of the net.
Gareth Southgate’s side had little response for most of the game besides a disallowed Phil Foden goal. In the 95th minute just before the final whistle, a last-ditch throw into the Slovakian box was met by Jude Bellingham who scored in spectacular style with a bicycle kick.
Early into extra-time, a header from Ivan Toney fell into the path of Harry Kane to head away the winner in the 1st minute of extra time.
In yet another underwhelming display from the Three Lions, Southgate’s team despite their progress to the quarterfinals have failed to impress in this tournament. Southgate has been criticised for his hesitation to take risks, it was evident against Slovakia as he selected the same front three of Foden, Kane and Bukayo Saka who have struggled playing together throughout this tournament. His substitutions also puzzled fans as he brought on Ivan Toney with only two minutes left in the second half, Toney played a pivotal role in both of England's goals. Had Toney been brought on earlier along with other proactive subs, England may not have had to rely on a last-minute equaliser.
Kobbie Mainoo replaced Connor Gallagher in the starting XI and the Manchester United midfielder was arguably the brightest spark for the Three Lions as he showed energy and directness as a midfielder that Gallagher and Trent Alexander-Arnold failed to show in their previous appearances.
England fullbacks Kyle Walker and Kieran Trippier disappointed against Slovakia as they lacked attacking support going forward and were both very fragile defensively. Trippier’s lack of confidence in his left foot slowed down multiple England attacks and eventually was forced off with an injury that he had been nursing throughout the tournament. With Luke Shaw’s fitness still in the balance despite making the squad on Sunday, Southgate might look towards Saka at left-back. Especially as he was more than adept at playing that role after Trippier’s substitution.
Similar to the fans’ reception of the group stage, further progression to the next stage of the Euros will be rightly celebrated and enjoyed. However, England’s next opponent Switzerland will be a very challenging opponent for the Three Lions and if they play as they did against Slovakia, England would be very fortunate to make it through to the Semi-Finals.
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