England Prepares For Historic Knockout Clash With Slovakia At Euro 2024

Gareth Southgate remains resolute and confident as England gears up for their first knockout match against Slovakia on Sunday at Euro 2024. Despite being among the pre-tournament favourites and topping Group C, England's performance has been underwhelming. They managed a narrow 1-0 win over Serbia but followed it with lacklustre draws against Denmark and Slovenia.

Jude Bellingham scored in the opening match, while Harry Kane netted in the 1-1 draw with Denmark. The goalless game against Slovenia raised questions about Southgate's ability to harness the attacking talents of players like Bellingham, Kane, Bukayo Saka, and Phil Foden. However, Southgate remains unfazed by critics. "I won't be backing away from anything," he stated. "Whatever the feeling is towards me, you've got to get behind the team, and that's crucial."

The left-back position has been a point of contention, with Kieran Trippier filling in while Luke Shaw remains unfit. Shaw has not played since February but might be available for the next game, according to Southgate after the Slovenia draw. England aims to reach the quarter-finals of consecutive European Championships for the first time ever.

Slovakia barely made it through Group E on goal difference, finishing level on points with Romania, Belgium, and Ukraine. Slovakia's head coach Matjaz Kek acknowledges England's strength. "We are playing against one of the favourites for the tournament," Kek said. "We respect England very much. We know their strengths and their individuals."

ENGLAND: HARRY KANE

Kane faces scrutiny over his pressing and speed but has an impressive record in knockout stages. He scored six goals in his last six knockout appearances at major tournaments (two at the 2022 World Cup and four at Euro 2020). His seven knockout stage goals are a record for any England player.

SLOVAKIA: MILAN SKRINIAR

Milan Skriniar will lead Slovakia's defence against Kane. Skriniar has excelled in other areas too; only Germany’s Toni Kroos made more forward passes than Skriniar’s 92 during the group stage. His 203 successful passes are a record for any Slovakian player in a single major tournament edition.

Match Prediction: England Win

Opta's data-led predictions favour an England win with a 65% probability. This is based on their strong head-to-head record against Slovakia, winning five out of six encounters. Their only failure was a goalless draw at Euro 2016 despite having their most shots (29) in a European Championship match.

Slovakia tends to start strong, having scored first in three of their six clashes with England but losing each time 2-1: twice in Euro 2004 qualifiers and once in a 2018 World Cup qualifier.

The Opta win probability stands at:

The Three Lions will hope to build on their historical success against Slovakia as they aim for another deep run in this tournament.