Finland will be looking to bounce back in their UEFA Nations League clash against England, having suffered a series of defeats, including a recent 2-1 loss to the Republic of Ireland. The side has now lost four matches in a row, including a 2-0 loss to England in September.
England, led by interim manager Lee Carsley, are also reeling from a shock 2-1 loss to Greece in midweek, which has raised questions about his legitimacy to remain in the job permanently.
Finland Predicted Lineup
Finland come into this match with a fairly stable squad, despite their poor recent run. Manager Markku Kanerva will likely stick to the 4-2-3-1 formation but might make a few changes after a disappointing showing against Ireland.
Joel Pohjanpalo, who scored the consolation goal in that defeat, could keep his place up front but was taken off midweek against Ireland, so he may well be rested. Teemu Pukki could be called upon to replace him in the lone striker position on Sunday.
In midfield, Rasmus Schüller and Leo Walta could remain in the starting XI despite both being subbed off against Ireland (potentially to be rested for this game).
At the back, Finland will need to improve defensively, with Arttu Hoskonen and Robert Ivanov tasked with containing England's forwards. Finland will also need goalkeeper Lukas Hradecky to be at his best to deal with England's attacking threat.
Finland Predicted Lineup to face England
Finland (4-2-3-1) Lukas Hradecky; Tomas Galvez, Arttu Hoskonen, Robert Ivanov, Adam Ståhl; Leo Walta, Rasmus Schüller; Topi Keskinen, Glen Kamara, Topi Keskinen; Joel Pohjanpalo
England Predicted Lineup
England, coming off their unexpected defeat to Greece, will likely make some adjustments for this game. With Bukayo Saka limping off injured in that game and Harry Kane a doubt, Carlsey may need to shuffle his forward line. Jude Bellingham, who scored whilst playing in a false nine role against Greece, could drop back into midfield, while Dominic Solanke or Ollie Watkins might start up front.
In defence, England are expected to field their usual back four, with John Stones and Levi Colwill potentially forming the central partnership again. However, Marc Guehi, England's best performer at Euro 2024, might be brought back in to partner with Stones. Jordan Pickford remains the favourite to start in goal, despite Aaron Ramsdale pushing for a spot. England’s midfield will aim to control possession and dictate the tempo of the game, and with Kobbie Mainoo not available it could mean that Bellingham starts alongside Declan Rice.
With Saka out it could mean that Anthony Gordon takes his place on the right alongside Jack Grealish on the left and Cole Palmer down the middle behind Ollie Watkins.
England Predicted Lineup to face Finland
Engand (4-2-3-1) Jordan Pickford; Rico Lewis Marc Guehi, John Stones, Trent Alexander-Arnold; Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham; Jack Grealish, Cole Palmer, Anthony Gordon; Ollie Watkins
England 
Finland 
