England suffered a devastating 2-1 loss to Spain in the Euro 2024 final held in Berlin. Despite a valiant effort, the Three Lions were unable to overcome the Spanish team, resulting in a loss in the contest.
The first half of the match remained relatively uneventful, with only one shot on target from both teams, courtesy of Phil Foden. However, Spain quickly gained the upper hand after the break, with Nico Williams scoring within two minutes of the restart. This put Spain in the lead and in a favorable position to score more goals.
In the 73rd minute, England managed to regroup, leading to a stunning equalizer by substitute Cole Palmer. Nevertheless, Spain secured victory with a late goal from Mikel Oyarzabal, just five minutes before the final whistle.
Gareth Southgate made a solitary change to his team from the semi-final, with Luke Shaw coming in for his first start of the tournament, replacing Kieran Trippier.
The England player ratings are as follows:
– Jordan Pickford: 7
Pickford put in a solid performance, making a couple of crucial saves in the second half and being blameless for the goals conceded.
– Kyle Walker: 6
While Walker contained Williams well in the first half, he struggled in the second, allowing the Spanish winger to open the scoring.
– John Stones: 7
Stones displayed a commendable performance in defence, making a crucial tackle early in the game and maintaining solid form throughout.
– Marc Guehi: 7
Guehi delivered an impressive performance, establishing himself as a breakout star of the tournament. However, he let Oyarzabal slip past him for the winning goal.
– Bukayo Saka: 6
Saka showed potential early in the game but failed to contribute significantly after the break.
– Luke Shaw: 6
Shaw excelled in the first half but failed to maintain the same level of performance in the second. He was also out of position for Spain’s first goal.
– Declan Rice: 5
Rice struggled to take control of the midfield, unable to influence the game significantly.
– Kobbie Mainoo: 5
Mainoo had a subdued performance, failing to make an impact and misplacing a few passes.
– Phil Foden: 4
Foden had a frustrating game and struggled to make a meaningful impact going forward.
– Jude Bellingham: 5
Bellingham was assigned a defensive role, limiting his ability to contribute offensively. However, he provided a well-weighted assist for the equalizing goal.
– Harry Kane: 3
Kane’s performance was disappointing, with minimal contribution to the team’s attacking play. He was substituted after an hour and received a booking early in the game.
Substitutes:
– Ollie Watkins: 6
Watkins provided much-needed energy and pushed the team up the pitch, although he was unable to create a goal-scoring opportunity.
– Cole Palmer: 8
Palmer made a remarkable impact, scoring a stunning goal just minutes after coming on as a substitute, leveling the score for England.
– Ivan Toney: N/A
Toney was brought on very late in the game and was unable to influence the result.
Despite the defeat, England showcased commendable resilience and determination throughout the tournament. The team’s players displayed immense skill and talent, highlighting promising prospects for the future.
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