Gareth Southgate had demanded of England after their lackluster performance against Denmark that they take a more assertive approach against Slovenia – and this happened, though with some false starts along the way.
Gallagher replaces Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield and helps improve England’s work without the ball; however, England are struggling to connect their passes together successfully. For those interested in comparing performances, England national football team vs Slovenia national football team stats provide insights into how both teams have fared in previous encounters.
England
England have held 74% possession in the first half, but were unable to break through Jan Oblak of Slovenia’s goalkeeper’s defences. When Cole Palmer attempted a late shot from outside of the box however, Oblak made an excellent save before being forced into making one more from Cole Palmer himself late on. Substitute Kobbie Mainoo provided some respite as soon as he replaced Conor Gallagher on the pitch.
The Three Lions were dismal on Thursday evening and looked tired and lackluster at times, with Jordan Henderson and Jack Wilshere failing to dictate play in midfield and Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka doing what they could but overall the level of play was poor.
Kieran Trippier began strong, charging forward before making an early mistake and fouling near Slovenia’s box. Their free kick was easily cleared away as they struggled against an organized opponent.
33 minutes: Kane spins and shoots from the edge of the box but his shot is blocked. England recover the ball and Rice passes it off to Foden who turns well and squares for Saka but is offside!
35 mins: Bellingham loses the ball and then confronts Janza with some pretty petulant body language, one yellow card away from suspension he seems close to blowing up completely.
37 minutes: Foden attempts to outwit his opponent but gets tackled from behind by Kane; protests were waved away by the referee and Foden tried attempting to pass to Kane himself but again offside!
45 mins: Bellingham loses the ball and then strikes out with another forearm at Cerin. England do not need another red card and Real Madrid’s star seems very close to receiving one.
46 mins: England supporters were left bemused after hearing the final whistle, as their side put up an uninspiring performance against Denmark in their final group game.
England will qualify for the last 16 with either a draw or victory, leading their group with two points and ahead of Denmark after they lost to hosts Germany. They will face third-placed teams from Group D, E or F in their next matchup.
A win would have assured England of their spot in the quarter-finals but is unlikely against an organized Slovenian side. Additionally, their home nation are currently struggling with injuries; Daniel Sturridge remains absent while Harry Kane and Marcus Rashford may both suffer calf problems in future games; Luke Shaw, Jordan Henderson and Adam Wharton all out due to illness or injury are missing from their lineups.
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