England vs Slovakia Predicted line-ups and latest news, – June 30, 2024

Today, the Round of 16 matches of the European Championship continue in Germany, with four teams competing for two spots in the quarter-finals. The first match of the day features tournament favorites England against Slovakia.

Before the tournament and after the group stage, England was considered the main favorite to win. However, in the previous stage, the Three Lions did not fully demonstrate the expected level. They started with a narrow victory over Serbia (1-0) and then recorded two draws: first against Denmark (1-1) and then against Slovenia (0-0).

Slovakia ended up in an interesting group where all teams finished with four points. In their first match against the group's main favorite, Belgium, they showcased excellent play and secured a narrow win (1-0). This was followed by a defeat to Ukraine (1-2), and finally, a draw with Romania (1-1). Based on additional parameters, Slovakia finished third in their group and advanced to the playoffs.

England suffered some setbacks before the match, with one of Manchester City's main stars, Phil Foden, having to leave the Three Lions' camp. He returned yesterday, but it is still unclear if he will play today. Additionally, Newcastle's forward Anthony Gordon sustained minor injuries from a bicycle fall but is expected to be fit for the match. On the positive side, Newcastle defender Kieran Trippier has returned to training and is likely to help his team today.

Ahead of the match, Crystal Palace and England central defender Marc Guéhi mentioned that his team has done significant work in preparing for penalty shootouts. Given England's group stage results, this could be essential.

"Yes, we've done a lot of work. The work on penalty execution within the team is going very well. It's important to make sure we're ready.

We enjoy practicing this element of the game. We've been training shots after practice, with some players staying on to work on penalties. We're not thinking about beating Slovakia on penalties on Sunday. But if it comes to a penalty shootout, we'll be well-prepared."

PSG and Slovakia defender Milan Škriniar also spoke before the match. He acknowledged that his team faces a challenging game against strong players but expressed confidence in their ability to cope.

"I've played against Harry Kane several times and know how strong he is. It will be a great match that we have to handle as a team.

We managed to hold Romelu Lukaku well, so I'm confident we can do the same against Harry Kane, although he is obviously a huge threat. England really needs to convince the world that they came here to win the Euro. Before this match, we were the team with the lowest percentage of advancing from the group stage, but things change quickly."

Both teams will give their all in the fight for points. The English must prove their status as the tournament's main favorites, while Slovakia will try to break their Euro record and reach the quarter-finals for the first time in history. Coaches will undoubtedly field their strongest players.

The Dailysports team has prepared information on the probable starting line-ups based on previous coaching decisions.

Predicted England line-up

Pickford – Trippier, Guéhi, Stones, Walker – Rice, Alexander-Arnold – Foden, Bellingham, Saka – Kane

Predicted Slovakia line-up

Dúbravka – Hancko, Škriniar, Vavro, Pekarík – Duda, Lobotka, Kucka – Haraslín, Boženík, Schranz

The match will take place today at 19:00 Central European Time. The Dailysports team has also prepared information on where you can watch this match in your country.