Euro 2024: England group winners but questions remain
England 0 - 0 Slovenia
England secured a spot in the Euro 2024 last 16 as the top team in Group C.
Gareth Southgate's squad showed some improvement compared to their dismal performance against Denmark, yet it still fell short of justifying their status as pre-tournament favourites.
Their play was laboured, with only occasional flashes of quality, notably in the first half when a smooth passing sequence led to Bukayo Saka's goal. This was disallowed for offside. Conor Gallagher's inclusion failed to make an impact, resulting in his replacement at half-time. The introduction of Manchester United teenager Kobbie Mainoo brought more urgency after the break.
England struggled with creativity in a group where no team scored more than one goal in any game, marking a first in the competition's history.
Denmark's 0-0 draw with Serbia saw them finish second, while Slovenia qualified as one of the best third-placed teams.
There was good news for England elsewhere, as results meant that the formidable quartet of France, Spain, Germany, and Portugal were placed in the other half of the draw.
United star impresses England fans
Mainoo's introduction at half-time underscored a significant issue within Southgate’s England team. The talented Manchester United youngster became Declan Rice’s third midfield partner in just two-and-a-half games, following the unsuccessful trial of Trent Alexander-Arnold and Gallagher's disappointing performance.
Mainoo brought some energy to England's display, but it was still the third consecutive subpar performance in Euro 2024. Despite dominating possession with nearly 74%, Slovenia's goalkeeper Jan Oblak remained largely untroubled, save for a smart late stop from substitute Cole Palmer's low shot.
Mainoo's performance suggested he might partner Rice in England's last-16 match, unless Southgate decides to change a system he seems committed to. The manager has tried various options, with only Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton yet to be tested, rapidly cycling through his choices.
Southgate has been seeking solutions throughout Euro 2024, and Mainoo has given him something to ponder after the failures of Alexander-Arnold and Gallagher.
England's morale received a boost from the news that Germany, France, Spain, and Portugal are on the other side of the draw. However, they will need to significantly improve their performance to capitalise on this stroke of luck.
If England aimed to silence their critics with a strong performance, this match was not the answer. They struggled to break through Slovenia's organised and determined defence, led by the outstanding Oblak, even when the solution seemed clear and came in a moment of disappointment.
Saka's goal was ruled out for offside after 20 minutes, but it was at least the result of quick, slick passing between Rice and Phil Foden to get behind Slovenia's defence.
It was a promising approach, but England failed to exploit it further. The second-half display was better, but Southgate's side still lacked the cutting edge, as seen in their games against Serbia and Denmark.
Best reaction
Thomas Jones posted the following on his LinkedIn profile. Thomas was happy with some aspects of England's performance.
Gary from Bury in Greater Manchester told us: "We have Pickford, Stones, Rice and Kane for an experienced spine, so having those young lads around them will actually be really helpful. We couldn't get control of the midfield in a way that helps us, and Kobbie Mainoo is a far better option than past solutions we have used so far."
