BLANKENHAIN, Germany — England trained on Saturday at their base camp in Blankenhain, gearing up for their Euro 2024 final against Spain.
Spain enter Sunday’s final as slight favorites, not only for their captivating style of play but also for their undefeated run in the tournament. England faces the challenge of wresting possession from a Spanish side featuring the outstanding Fabian Ruiz, widely regarded as the player of the tournament.
Spain’s attack boasts lightning-fast wingers Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, who turns 17 on Saturday and is the youngest scorer at a European Championship or World Cup. England’s fullbacks will have their hands full containing these dynamic forwards.
For England and coach Gareth Southgate, reaching a second successive Euro final is a significant achievement, despite enduring weeks of criticism for lackluster performances and a perceived lack of offensive power. England’s defense, however, has been solid, with John Stones and Kyle Walker demonstrating their ability to recover quickly when exposed.
Spain’s ball possession and movement will pose England’s biggest test so far. Key to maintaining their defensive shape is the work of Declan Rice, whose anticipation, strength, and determination have made him arguably England’s best player in the tournament, patrolling in front of the back four and addressing threats as they arise.
England’s midfield also stepped up in the semi-finals against the Netherlands, with Kobbie Mainoo, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden all contributing to regaining possession and stifling the opposition.
Southgate will be reassured by the improved offensive display against the Dutch after a group stage in which England scored just two goals in three matches. He will encourage Jude Bellingham to attack defenders he knows well from LaLiga, and remind Harry Kane to focus on his work in and around the box, where he was more effective in the semi-final.
One area of concern is England’s lack of threat from set pieces. While they appeared vulnerable in the air against the Netherlands, this is unlikely to be as significant an issue against Spain.
