Watch England vs Slovenia full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 19:00 (GMT) on 25th June 2024
The referee for this match is C. Turpin
Game played at Cologne Stadium
This is a match in Europe – UEFA European Championship, Group C, Season 2024
England 0-0 Slovenia: Three Lions Top Group C Despite Stalemate
England secured the top spot in Group C at UEFA Euro 2024 with a 0-0 draw against Slovenia, extending their unbeaten H2H streak to seven matches. Despite a lackluster performance, the result ensures both teams progress to the knockout stages.
First Half: Sluggish Start and Disallowed Goal
Already assured of a place in the Round of 16, England needed to use this match to build momentum. However, the opening stages were marked by sloppy play and misplaced passes.
England started to find their rhythm 20 minutes in, culminating in a disallowed goal by Bukayo Saka, flagged offside after a promising move. Creativity remained scarce, but Kieran Trippier’s dangerous cross just before halftime nearly found Harry Kane at the far post.
Second Half: Tactical Changes and Continued Struggles
Gareth Southgate introduced Kobbie Mainoo at halftime in place of Conor Gallagher, seeking to inject energy into the team. The change had little immediate impact, with England continuing to struggle in the final third.
Southgate then brought on Cole Palmer for his tournament debut 20 minutes from time, yet England’s attacking woes persisted. Slovenia, equally ineffectual up front, failed to capitalize on England’s vulnerabilities.
Key Moments
- Disallowed Goal: Bukayo Saka’s first-half goal was ruled out for offside, highlighting England’s lack of cutting edge.
- Substitutions: Southgate’s halftime change and subsequent introduction of Palmer failed to significantly improve England’s performance.
- Nervy Ending: With the score level, both teams faced a tense final 10 minutes, but neither could break the deadlock.
Implications
- England’s Progression: England top Group C and will face a third-placed team in the Round of 16 on Sunday evening.
- Slovenia’s Qualification: Slovenia advance as one of the best third-placed teams, continuing their Euro 2024 journey.
Conclusion
England’s performance against Slovenia was far from inspiring, but securing the top spot in Group C provides a favorable path in the knockout stages. Both teams will need to improve their attacking play to progress further in the tournament.