England must strive for perfection to overcome Spain – Southgate
England's manager, Gareth Southgate, has emphasized the need for his team to be "tactically perfect" to overcome Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday. Following their 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in the semi-final, England reached their first major final on foreign soil. This achievement marks the third time in the past four major competitions that Southgate has guided England to the semi-final stage of either the Euros or the World Cup. SSP reported.
Southgate considers three-time champions Spain as the "favorites" for the final, acknowledging their outstanding performance thus far in the tournament. He acknowledges the importance of recovery, reflecting on the advantage of an extra day that Spain possesses. The England manager also emphasizes the necessity for his team to excel tactically, given the exceptional quality of the Spanish side. Despite the challenges ahead, Southgate exudes confidence, stating, "But, you know, we are here."
Looking back at their defeat by Italy in the Euro 2020 final, Arsenal midfielder Declan Rice describes it as a haunting memory that drives them for this upcoming final. Rice believes they now have an opportunity to create their history, expressing immense respect for Spain as a formidable opponent. He underlines the importance of winning the final, not only for themselves but also as a tribute to their manager, who he believes thoroughly deserves it.
Echoing Rice's sentiments, Chelsea's Cole Palmer asserts that the team intends to "finish the job" and make a lasting impact by clinching victory in Berlin. Palmer, who contributed an assist in the semi-final, emphasizes the collective intent and the significance of changing not only their own lives but also those of their families. The desire to make everyone proud is a driving force behind their determination to secure the win.
Despite a slow start in the tournament, Southgate's side has progressively found their rhythm and reached their second Euros final in two attempts. Palmer, who previously won the Under-21 European Championship with England, believes they have showcased their best performance yet in the tournament, particularly in the semi-final. He acknowledges the immense magnitude of the final, drawing on the previous encounter between England and Spain in the Under-21s final, highlighting the significance of this match.