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England's Stalemate with Slovenia Exposes Tactical Uncertainties Ahead of Knockout Rounds

Posted : 26 June 2024

England’s recent 0-0 draw with Slovenia in Cologne confirmed their top spot in Group C, but also highlighted the ongoing uncertainties in Gareth Southgate’s team selections. The match saw the abandonment of the experiment to use Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield, with Conor Gallagher stepping in.

 

This was the only change from the previous 1-1 draw against Denmark, which had raised significant questions and criticism from former captain Gary Lineker. Despite pre-match promises of a better performance, England’s display was only marginally improved.

 

There was a slightly more cohesive structure as England shifted from a 4-2-3-1 to a 4-3-3 formation, with Marc Guéhi providing a solid defensive presence, barring one second-half mistake. Declan Rice regained some of his Arsenal form, contributing to better ball retention. However, the attacking players struggled once again to showcase their individual talents as a cohesive unit against a relatively weaker opponent compared to Denmark.

 

The match felt disjointed, with players like Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka failing to find their rhythm or tempo. The hot weather was a factor, but it didn’t account for the conservative play and lack of innovation.

 

Southgate, known for his meticulous planning, has brought England closer to success than any manager since Sir Alf Ramsey. Yet, the team seems less likely to win a trophy now than at the last World Cup, and the bond with the fans is strained, evident from mixed reactions and some boos from the crowd.

 

Southgate faces a crucial decision post-Euros about his future, with many believing the team has outgrown him. Despite the disappointing performance, there were some positives, such as the promising second-half substitutions, including Kobbie Mainoo and Cole Palmer.

 

England’s path forward in the tournament appears less daunting, with major contenders in the opposite half of the draw. Harry Kane emphasized that England has traditionally improved in the knockout stages, and they need to find the right formula quickly for the upcoming match in Gelsenkirchen, as the margin for error is rapidly diminishing.

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