The Three Lions were among the favourites to win Euro 2024, but an underwhelming group-stage campaign has changed the perception of Gareth Southgate’s side.
On Sunday, England have the chance to book their place in the quarter-finals of the Euro 2024 when they take on Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen.
England are favored to advance from the round of 16, but the Slovakians will fancy their chances of causing an upset. Read on to discover what our AI algorithm predicts.
The grind doesn't stop 👊 pic.twitter.com/if1DyVJUK1— England (@England) June 27, 2024
The grind doesn't stop 👊 pic.twitter.com/if1DyVJUK1
Despite flattering to deceive in their opening three matches, England still managed to win Group C without tasting defeat.
Following a 1-0 victory over Serbia, the Three Lions played out a 1-1 stalemate with Denmark before being held to a goalless draw by Slovenia last time out.
While Southgate’s men have struggled in attack, only Spain have conceded fewer goals this summer, with England keeping two clean sheets in three matches.
Still, there is a sense that England must improve in all areas if they are to progress to the latter stages and potentially go all the way.
Over in Group E, Slovakia booked their place in the knockout phase after finishing third, with all four teams ending up on four points.
After kicking off their campaign with a shock 1-0 victory over Belgium, the Slovakians suffered a 2-1 defeat against Ukraine before drawing 1-1 with Romania.
Interestingly, Slovakia have scored one goal more than England so far this summer, but they have also conceded two goals more.
When you look at the bigger picture, the Slovakians have lost just two of their last 10 matches across all competitions, securing six wins in the process.
Head-to-head: Slovakia have failed to win any of their six previous meetings with England, suffering five defeats since their first encounter in 2002.
The Three Lions have scored over 1.5 goals in four of their five victories over the Slovakians, conceding just four goals while keeping three clean sheets.
Team news: Southgate has made a solitary change to his starting XI this tournament, with Conor Gallagher replacing Trent Alexander-Arnold last time out.
As for Slovakia, Napoli star Stanislav Lobotka will continue to operate in the engine room, while Ivan Schranz will aim to score his third goal of the tournament.
Despite a string of below-par performances during the group stage, the Three Lions are expected to flex their muscles and get the better of Slovakia.
Forebet predicts that England will clinch a low-scoring victory over Slovakia, keeping their third clean sheet of the tournament in the process.