Spain and England will face off in the EURO 2024 final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday. “Will Spain win a fourth European title? Can England’s men’s team win their first?”
Spain is considered the favorite heading into the final due to their impressively incisive pressing style that has impressed everyone during this tournament. Luis de la Fuente’s young team defeated France in the semifinal, with the 16-year-old Lamine Yamal (who turns 17 the day before the final) making a significant impact, and Dani Olmo scoring the winning goal during the comeback. Spain still maintains control over the tempo of play, but their counterattacks and transitions are devastating, making them a threat in many different ways.
England is surprising everyone by making it to the final, showing incredible resilience under Gareth Southgate’s leadership. Despite being behind in their last 16, quarterfinal, and semifinal games, they managed to win all of them. Their best performance was in the semifinal against the Netherlands, and they continue to improve with each game. Ollie Watkins, coming off the bench, was the hero once again by scoring a late goal. The underdog tag should suit England, as they play in their second straight European Championship final.
Spain Team News, Focus
The main injury concern is Alvaro Morata, who was injured when a security guard slipped and hit him during the post-match celebrations following Spain’s semifinal win against France. They are already missing Pedri after he was injured in the quarterfinal against Germany, but Olmo has come in for Pedri and had a huge impact.
The big question is whether Robin Le Normand and Dani Carvajal will come straight back in after missing the semifinal against France due to suspension. Jesus Navas and Nacho used all of their experience to step in, but it feels like Luis de la Fuente will go with Le Normand and Carvajal from the start.
The young duo of Lamal and Nico Williams have been a revelation out wide, and if they play well, Spain play well. Fabian Ruiz and Rodri also have a wonderful understanding in central midfield and will look to wrestle control of the engine room and push Spain high up the pitch.
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England Team News, Focus
The English national team has a pretty settled lineup at this point. The main question is whether Luke Shaw is fit to start the game. He came on at halftime for Kieran Trippier in the semifinal and gave England natural balance as a left wing-back in their 3-4-2-1 system.
There is also the possibility that England could switch to a back four to prevent Spain from finding space out wide behind their wing-backs. However, considering how well the back three has worked over the last two games – in terms of maintaining defensive solidity and allowing England’s talented attackers more freedom – it is likely that Southgate will stick with that formation.
England vs Spain Prediction
This match is a clash of styles, but it seems like Spain will have the edge. Their ability to transition quickly can win them the game at any moment. England will have chances, but this will be their toughest test of the tournament by far. Prediction: Spain 2-1 England.
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