The big match of the summer is finally upon us. At 9pm CEST, Spain and England will face off in the final of Euro 2024, taking place in Berlin. La Roja will stand as marginal favourites because of their superior form throughout the tournament, but the English cannot be ruled out, and they have several matchwinners in their squad.
For Spain, the big question leading up to the final, in terms of team selection, is in defence. Dani Carvajal will return to the right-back spot after suspension, but more uncertainty surrounded the right centre-back position. Robin Le Normand had been a regular starter until the semi-final, but due to a one-match ban, he was replaced by Nacho Fernandez.
Nacho has staked his claim to start in Berlin, but for Luis de la Fuente, it’s not enough. Marca say that Le Normand will be given the nod – he and Carvajal are to be the only two changes from the victory over France.
Throughout the tournament, England manager Gareth Southgate has often kept his line-ups the same, aside from the odd change here or there. He’s expected to name the same XI that defeated The Netherlands in their semi-final clash, meaning that Harry Kane keeps his place – despite pressure from Ollie Watkins. Real Madrid’s Jude Bellingham will be a big threat for Spain.
It should be a fantastic occasion in Berlin. Spain are eyeing up a record fourth European Championship title, and their first since 2012. If they play to their best, England should have no answer – but it won’t be as easy as that for La Roja.
