England must be perfect to beat Spain, admits Southgate

England manager Gareth Southgate has acknowledged the formidable challenge posed by Spain in the upcoming Euro 2024 final, emphasising the need for a flawless performance to secure victory.

The Three Lions earned their spot in the final after a dramatic comeback win over the Netherlands in the semi-finals. Following Xavi Simons’ early goal in the seventh minute, Harry Kane equalised from the penalty spot 11 minutes later. Substitute Ollie Watkins then clinched the win with an injury-time goal.

Southgate has guided England to the semi-final stage in three of the last four major competitions, including the Euros and the World Cup. However, he recognises Spain as the favourites, citing their impressive performance throughout the tournament.

“They would be rightly favorites for what they have done this tournament. They have been the best team,” Southgate admitted. “They have got a day longer, and in the past three finals, maybe more, it has been quite significant, so we have got to get our recovery spot on.”

🚨🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 FA insist on Gareth Southgate to stay, they want him to be England’s manager regardless of the outcome in the Euros final vs Spain.

Internal talks already took place to confirm total confidence in Southgate. pic.twitter.com/71ihPQX8Jw

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 12, 2024

“Tactically, we will have to be perfect as they are such a good side. But, you know, we are here,” Southgate added.

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England, who lost to Italy in the final of Euro 2020, are determined to redeem themselves on Sunday.

On the other hand, Spain, three-time winners of the Euros, have maintained a perfect record in this year’s competition, defeating every opponent in regular time.

While Spain have showcased consistent dominance, England have shown marked improvement with each game, overcoming an underwhelming start to the campaign.

As Southgate’s men bid to win their first Euros title, his focus on tactical perfection and recovery underscores the magnitude of the challenge ahead.