They've had the habit in these last two matches of sitting on a lead. Didn't work against Germany, but did today against a malfunctioning France. I'd be worried about doing that against the Netherlands.
England, on the other hand...if Spain could work them over that would be an all time great event.
and remember, were without Carvajal, big difference between him and Navasl. Schmiechel or Chiellinisaid it best: Spain is the most interesting, the most entertaining, and the best team in EURO 24. Terps is right though, mistake to count out the Dutch, who I picked last week to make it to Berlin.
Tip of the hat to Pepe, at 41, and.Carvajal, not as old, they have been fantastic, Pepe in particular thwarting chances and running even with players 15 years younger and ‘much faster’. He was shattered on Saturday. Ronaldo, maybe not so much.
I loved the Tiki Taka style of play in the late 00s/early 10s, but the national teams/clubs adapted, better positioned their defense, and countered more effectively. Spanish matches at times became more boring and predictable as they struggled to break down compact final thirds. Spain would grind out 1-0 victories particularly in the 2010 WC.
They have been searching for a new identity after 2012 when their Golden Generation midfielders and attackers in particular began to cycle out.
These young wingers have added a directness and more width to the Spanish side that has been lacking in the past. Would love to see Nico join the Blaugrana despite more pressing needs.
I think ESP can be even more dangerous: Nico was almost an after thought last night as the focus seemed more on Lamine Y, better--less predictable--distribution from MFs and utilize L and R wings equally and both OBs are capable on overlap, esp. now on Sunday with Dani (Carvjal) back
Spain and France have the best squads and best starting XI's,
followed by England.
France have been a bit flat throughout. England have raised themselves at just the right moment.
But I can't really see England beating Spain. I reckon Spain will score at least two, so England will have to put away their chances to match that. I also think they can't afford to carry Kane, but Southgate will unfortunately stick with him.
England, on the other hand...if Spain could work them over that would be an all time great event.
Soccer is a fickle game.... Best or not ....
But I still like Spain.
Tip of the hat to Pepe, at 41, and.Carvajal, not as old, they have been fantastic, Pepe in particular thwarting chances and running even with players 15 years younger and ‘much faster’. He was shattered on Saturday. Ronaldo, maybe not so much.
They have been searching for a new identity after 2012 when their Golden Generation midfielders and attackers in particular began to cycle out.
These young wingers have added a directness and more width to the Spanish side that has been lacking in the past. Would love to see Nico join the Blaugrana despite more pressing needs.
need a manager who sees and harnesses
I think ESP can be even more dangerous: Nico was almost an after thought last night as the focus seemed more on Lamine Y, better--less predictable--distribution from MFs and utilize L and R wings equally and both OBs are capable on overlap, esp. now on Sunday with Dani (Carvjal) back
France have been a bit flat throughout. England have raised themselves at just the right moment.
But I can't really see England beating Spain. I reckon Spain will score at least two, so England will have to put away their chances to match that. I also think they can't afford to carry Kane, but Southgate will unfortunately stick with him.