Gareth Southgate, the manager of England’s national football team, emphasized that England must execute their tactics flawlessly to overcome Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday.
After securing a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in the semi-final, marking England’s first major final appearance on foreign soil, Southgate acknowledged Spain’s status as favourites due to their strong performances throughout the tournament.
“They would be rightly favourites for what they have done this tournament. They have been the best team,” Southgate commented. “Tactically, we must be perfect as they are such a good side. But, you know, we are here.”
Reflecting on England’s journey and the motivation from their defeat to Italy in the Euro 2020 final, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice highlighted the team’s unwavering determination to rewrite history in Berlin.
“Seeing Italy lift that trophy will haunt me forever,” Rice admitted. “We are now presented with another opportunity to write our history, but we are up against another top side that we must respect massively.”
Echoing the sentiment of seizing the moment, Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, who played a pivotal role in England’s semi-final victory, emphasized the significance of Sunday’s match.
“It’s a massive, massive game to change our lives, our family’s lives, and to make everyone proud. That’s what we’re trying to do,” Palmer said. “If you’ve got to this final, you have to finish the job, hopefully.”
Southgate’s squad, overcoming a slow start in the tournament, has progressively found their stride, with Palmer noting their improved performance as the competition advanced.
“In the first few games, we didn’t play the best we could, and everyone knew that,” Palmer reflected. “But now I think as the tournament’s gone on, especially yesterday, we had our best game, and that’s what you want going into the later stages.”
The upcoming final against Spain holds special significance, especially for Palmer, who previously faced Spain in the Under-21 European Championship final. The intensity and stakes are higher now, with England aiming to clinch their maiden Euros title.
Southgate and his team are focused on delivering a flawless performance against Spain, hoping to lift the trophy and make history for themselves and their country.
