England Sets Sights On Euro 2024 Trophy In Final Against Spain
England's journey to the Euro 2024 final has been a rollercoaster, with Alan Shearer believing they have experienced all the trials that winning teams face. The Three Lions will compete against Spain in Berlin, aiming for their first major international title since the 1966 World Cup.The road to the final has been anything but smooth for England. They secured five points from their three Group C matches and were on the brink of elimination until Jude Bellingham's injury-time equaliser against Slovakia in the last 16. This goal pushed the match into extra time, where England eventually triumphed.In the quarter-finals, England faced Switzerland and found themselves trailing with just ten minutes left. They managed to level the score and ultimately won on penalties after a 1-1 draw. The semi-final against the Netherlands saw more drama, with Ollie Watkins scoring a late winner to secure a 2-1 victory.Alan Shearer believes that despite some unconvincing performances, England have gained enough experience in Germany to succeed in the final. "One of Gareth’s greatest strengths as England’s manager has been recalibrating our expectations," Shearer told The Athletic. He praised Southgate for his humility and good sense, which have helped reduce any sense of entitlement within the team.Shearer also noted that England are no longer perceived as aloof or arrogant. Instead, they are seen as decent competitors who want to be part of major tournaments. "We’re decent and we know it, but we want to be in the thick of tournaments," he added.
Moments of Luck
Reflecting on their journey, Shearer mentioned that luck played a role in their success. He cited Harry Kane's penalty decision as an example of fortunate moments that have gone England's way. "You need a bit of luck and we had it with the decision for Harry Kane’s penalty the other night," he said.Shearer also highlighted how England have navigated various challenges, including a sluggish start and a penalty shoot-out. These experiences have made people believe that this could be England's time to shine.Brace yourself pic.twitter.com/hIugaS3Vaw
— England (@England) July 13, 2024
Personal Hopes
Shearer expressed his personal hopes for witnessing an English triumph. "It might sound a bit morbid but I said to my son not too long ago, that I just want to be around when the Newcastle or England teams I so proudly represented win a f***ing trophy," he shared candidly.As England prepare for Sunday's final, fans and former players alike are filled with anticipation and hope. The team's journey has been marked by resilience and determination, qualities that will be crucial as they aim for glory against Spain.Tomorrow pic.twitter.com/RVWKoav5qu
— England (@England) July 13, 2024
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