The anticipation is building for the upcoming European Championship clash between England and Slovenia, set to take place on June 25, 2024, at the RheinEnergieStadion in Cologne.
Both teams have much at stake, with England aiming to secure their place in the last 16 and Slovenia striving for their first victory in the tournament. Here’s a comprehensive preview of the match, including predictions, team news, and form.
England’s Form and Prospects
England, under the guidance of Gareth Southgate, have accumulated four points from their first two games.
Despite a somewhat uninspiring start, they managed a win against Serbia and a draw with Denmark. The key to their success has been a robust defence and Harry Kane's finding the net again in their second group game.
However, their performance has been criticised for lacking cohesion and creativity, with the team often appearing uncertain about their roles and Phil Foden looking especially lost at sea out on the left.
Slovenia’s Challenge
Slovenia, led by Matjaz Kek, have shown resilience, drawing both of their matches against Denmark and Serbia.
They are currently in third place in Group C and are eyeing a spot in the knockout stages.
Despite their underdog status, Slovenia's recent form is impressive, with an eight-match unbeaten streak.
However, their historical record against England is not favorable, with five losses in six encounters.
Team News
England
Gareth Southgate has a relatively fit squad to choose from, though Luke Shaw remains a doubt due to injury.
The midfield experiment with Trent Alexander-Arnold has not yielded the desired results, and changes are expected.
Conor Gallagher or Jude Bellingham might drop deeper, allowing Phil Foden to play centrally with Anthony Gordon or Eberechi Eze on the wings.
Slovenia
Slovenia’s key attacker Benjamin Sesko is expected to be fit despite muscle cramps in the last match.
Goalkeeper Jan Oblak missed training but is anticipated to play. Midfielders Timi Max Elsnik and Adam Gnezda Cerin are doubtful, which could see Jon Gorenc Stankovic step in.
Predicted Lineups
England: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier; Bellingham, Rice; Saka, Foden, Gordon; Kane
Slovenia: Oblak; Karnicnik, Brekalo, Bijol, Janza; Mlakar, Elsnik, Cerin, Stojanovic; Sporar, Sesko
Prediction
While Slovenia’s form suggests they could pose a significant challenge, England's superior squad depth and individual talent make them favourites.
A narrow victory for England is anticipated, with our predicted scoreline being 1-0, ensuring their progression as group winners.
England 
Slovenia 
