England, seeking to end a 58-year drought for a major trophy, will confront a Spain team aiming for a record fourth Euro 2024 triumph in Sunday’s final.
La Roja have dominated the tournament, overcoming champions Italy, hosts Germany, and favorites France en route to the final, while England has progressed more narrowly but boasts an arsenal of attacking talents capable of decisive moments.
KANE VS. LAPORTE
Harry Kane’s quest to claim his first major trophy could culminate dramatically if he leads his team to victory. The Bayern Munich forward, with 44 goals in 45 club appearances during his debut season in Germany, has struggled to replicate that form in the tournament. Despite fitness concerns, Kane has still netted three goals, putting him in contention for the Golden Boot. His history against Aymeric Laporte, whom he faced regularly in the Premier League, includes standout performances, notably scoring twice in a memorable Tottenham win over Laporte’s Manchester City in February 2022. Laporte, now with Al-Nassr in Saudi Arabia, has silenced doubters at the Euros with strong performances.
SPANISH WIDTH VS. ENGLISH DEFENCE
Spain’s dynamic wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams have been pivotal in their attack’s success. They pose a significant threat with their pace and creativity. If Gareth Southgate opts for wing-backs, Luke Shaw and Bukayo Saka are likely to counteract them. Shaw, returning from injury, and Saka, praised for his defensive diligence, face a tough task containing Spain’s potent widemen, especially Williams, who is attracting interest from top European clubs.
SAKA VS. CUCURELLA
Bukayo Saka’s relentless energy makes him a vital asset in England’s attack. The Arsenal winger will go head-to-head with Marc Cucurella, a standout for Spain despite recent challenges at Chelsea. Saka’s ability to cut inside from the right flank, demonstrated by his goal against Switzerland, will be crucial. Cucurella’s aim will be to neutralize Saka’s threat by linking up effectively with Williams and keeping him pinned back.
RODRI VS. BELLINGHAM
The battle between Rodri and Jude Bellingham could influence the outcome and even future accolades like the Ballon d’Or. A linchpin for Spain and Manchester City, Rodri boasts an impressive record with just one defeat in his last 79 matches for club and country. Bellingham, instrumental in Real Madrid’s victory over City in the Champions League, has enjoyed a successful debut season in Spain, adding the European Cup and La Liga to his achievements. His dramatic late goal against Slovakia highlighted his impact for England.
PICKFORD VS. SIMON
Goalkeepers Jordan Pickford and Unai Simon will be pivotal figures under scrutiny at the Olympiastadion. Pickford’s heroics, including a crucial penalty save against Switzerland, have been instrumental for England. Simon recovered from an early tournament error against Croatia to display solidity, notably saving a penalty against Bruno Petkovic. England will look to test Simon, who has occasionally been prone to mistakes, under pressure.
