Prediction, Odds and Line-Up
All eyes are on Munich on Sunday for the eagerly anticipated Euro 2024 final clash between Spain and England. Spain made history in their matchup against France in the Semi-Final, becoming the only team to have won all six of its matches before any Euro final. Meanwhile, England’s journey in this tournament has been inconsistent, but they were able to see off a stubborn Netherlands side in the final minutes. Will the Three Lions end their 58-year trophy drought on Sunday? Let’s preview this interesting clash.
About the game
Spain’s Performance
La Roja navigated a challenging group with Italy, Croatia, and Albania. They defeated Georgia, Germany, and France during the knockout stages to reach the final. Despite an early setback against France in the semi-final, Spain triumphed 2-1 with goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo. Spain will aim for their fourth European Championship title, which they previously won in 1964, 2008, and 2012. No European team has ever won four European Championships.
England’s Performance
England topped a group featuring Serbia, Denmark, and Slovenia. They then defeated Slovakia, Switzerland, and the Netherlands to reach the final. Ollie Watkins was the semi-final hero, scoring a 90th-minute winner after Xavi Simons’ early goal and Harry Kane’s equalising penalty. With that victory, England marks its second consecutive qualification to the Euro final. It also marks their second major tournament final under Gareth Southgate, surpassing their single final appearance in their first 23 World Cup/Euros attempts.
Head-to-Head History
This is the third Euro clash between Spain and England. England won in 1980 and advanced on penalties in 1996. England failed to score in three of their four World Cup/Euro games against Spain, with the last two ending 0-0. Spain has won seven of their previous 14 meetings with the Three Lions.
Key Players to Watch
Yamal’s goal against France made him the youngest scorer at the Euros. With three assists already in Germany, he’s on the brink of a Spanish record if he provides his 4th on Sunday, which could be crucial at this stage. He will be supported by Nico Williams on the other side of the pitch, with Rodri anchoring the midfield.
Declan Rice and Kobbie Mainoo formed the steel in their Semi-Final clash with the Dutch; they could be pivotal once again. The three-man defence of Stones, Walker, and Guehi should keep things tight for the Three Lions at the back, with captain Kane leading the attack.
Possible Team Lineups and Changes
Spain’s fiery quarter-final against Germany saw Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand suspended, missing the semi-final. Carvajal will likely replace Jesus Navas, while Le Normand will likely push Nacho to the bench. However, Pedri remains sidelined with a knee injury, and Ayoze Perez is out with a quadriceps tear.
With Luke Shaw fully fit, England heads to Berlin with no injury concerns. Shaw replaced Kieran Trippier at halftime in the semi-final and performed well; he’s likely to start here. Southgate is expected to maintain a 3-4-2-1 formation, keeping captain Harry Kane upfront, supported by Bellingham and Foden.
Spain vs. England Betting Odds and Predictions
The Spanish team have been outstanding so far, winning six consecutive games at the Euro is not a small feat. They will be the favourite to win on sunday, but I feel this might be England’s night. Reaching two consecutive European final for England is an achievement on its own. My gut says England to lift the trophy @ 2.15 but my pick will be over 1.5 match goal
The Best Betting Odds
Conclusion
Southgate admits that only perfection will end England’s 58-year drought, but recent performances in Germany have been far from flawless. England struggled creatively against the Netherlands until Palmer and Watkins’ crucial link-up. Despite recent tenacity from England, Spain’s firepower should prevail, leading to another heartbreak for the Three Lions as La Roja make history.
Samuel Okunsolawo is an iGaming expert with over six years of experience in content writing. His passion for simplifying complex concepts makes his articles accessible and useful for beginners and experts alike. With a focus on sports betting trends and reliable betting sites, Samuel’s articles are an excellent resource for those seeking guidance and staying up to date in the world of iGaming.