England manager Gareth Southgate emphasized that his team needs to be “tactically perfect” to overcome Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday.
England secured their first major final appearance on foreign soil with a 2-1 win over the Netherlands in the semi-final on Wednesday. This marks the third time in the past four major tournaments that Southgate has led England to the semi-final stage of either the Euros or the World Cup.
Southgate acknowledged that Spain, three-time winners, are the “favorites” for the final as England aims to clinch their first Euros title.
“They are rightly favorites for their performance this tournament. They have been the best team,” Southgate stated.
“They have an extra day of rest, which has been quite significant in past finals, so our recovery must be perfect. Tactically, we have to be flawless as they are an excellent team. But, we are ready.”
England Have ‘Unfinished Business’
Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice remarked that the loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final will serve as motivation for Sunday’s match.
Italy defeated England 3-2 on penalties after a 1-1 draw over 120 minutes at Wembley.
“Seeing Italy lift that trophy will haunt me forever,” Rice said.
“We have another chance to make history, but we must respect our formidable opponent. Hopefully, we can achieve it. Not just for ourselves, but also for the manager. He deserves this victory.”
Chelsea’s Cole Palmer expressed confidence that the team can “finish the job” and create a lasting legacy by winning in Berlin.
Palmer, who assisted Ollie Watkins’ last-minute winner in Dortmund, shared the team’s excitement.
“Everyone’s buzzing,” Palmer said on the England YouTube channel. “Last night on the bus, tunes were on, and in the changing room, everyone was enjoying the moment.
“But it’s a quick turnaround, and this is a massive game that could change our lives and make our families proud. That’s our goal.
“If you’ve made it to the final, you have to finish the job. It’s great to reach the final, and you should enjoy it, but ultimately, everyone wants to win.”
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