“They would be rightly favorites for what they have done this tournament” : Gareth Southgate says ‘Spain’ favorites to win Euros
Gareth Southgate has stated the Spain are the favorites to win the Euros, ahead of their clash with England in the finals on Sunday evening. The Three Lions defeated the Netherlands 2-1, courtesy of an added time winner by Ollie Watkins.
Spain have been the most consistent side of the tournament so far, beating reigning champions Italy in the group stages. They also defeated hosts Germany in the quarterfinals, before knocking out 2016 runners-up France in the semifinals.
England manager Gareth Southgate acknowledges the challenge they will be up against in the finals. He stated that the Three Lions will have to play a perfect match to defeat Spain, who have been the best side in the tournament so far.
“They are a bloody good side. Let’s pitch it right. We have got to be perfect to win this game and we will have to find everything that we have got from within us,” said Southgate, as quoted by Goal.
Gareth Southgate says England need to focus on recovery ahead of finals
England have had a very nervy campaign this time, as they have come back from a goal down in all of their three knockout matches so far. Jude Bellingham’s equalizer deep into added time against Slovakia helped England reach the quarterfinals.
England have now reached two successive Euro finals, as they were defeated by Italy in the finals in the last edition. Gareth Southgate stated that their focus should be on recovery for the finals, as Spain have an extra day to prepare themselves.
Spain defeated France in Munich on Tuesday evening, as they would have an extra day’s rest ahead of the all-important finals. Gareth Southgate’s substitutions have been on point at the Euros, as his changes have often played a part in England’s progression in the competition.
“They would be rightly favorites for what they have done this tournament. They have been the best team. They have got a day longer and in the last three finals, maybe more, it has been quite significant so we have got to get our recovery spot on. Tactically we will have to be perfect as they are such a good side,” said Southgate.
