England squeak past Slovakia with close 2-1 win

England’s performance against Slovakia should come off as disturbing. It’s unlike the confusion that originated from England‘s tedious win over Serbia, nor the concern from England’s scoreless draws against Denmark and Slovenia. This was disturbing, another shaky performance that saw England relying on its talent to eke out another undeserved win. England looked desperate throughout the match — hindered by tactical confusion and stunned by the resilience of Slovakia.

Slovakia’s low block frustrated England, reduced to desperately flinging crosses into the box and miracle long-shots. It seemed England was nearing its most consequential event in recent memory until its talent — not its tactics — bailed them out from a humiliating loss.

They face Switerland on Saturday with more questions to answer now than before their match against Slovakia. Guehi’s yellow card absence, a disconnect in the attack, confusing tactical decisions? Southgate can count himself as very lucky after his side failed to impress against Slovakia.

Bellingham leads England to win

Surprisingly, Slovakia started as the dominant force in the match. A toothless England dominated possession, but couldn’t create any big chances throughout the match. Slovakia were unstoppable on the counter as a sluggish England backline struggled to keep up.

Slovakia’s opener revealed fluidity in its front line. Slovakia striker David Strelec dropped deep to receive a long ball from the back line and played on a streaking Schranz. One-on-one with Jordan Pickford, Schranz easily converted his chance to score his third goal of the tournament and put Slovakia up 1-0.

England pressed on unsuccessfully for an equalizer, but the closest they came was an offsides goal from Foden and a long-range rocket from Declan Rice that hit the post. They found their big break after a flurry of substitutions, bringing on several attacking players and subbing off midfielders and defenders…


Source link : https://worldsoccertalk.com/uefa-euro/england-squeak-past-slovakia-with-close-2-1-win/

Author : Deolu Akingbade

Publish date : 2024-06-30 22:24:42

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