Spain and England are set for an exciting showdown in the final of EURO 2024 in Berlin on Sunday, with numerous tactical and individual battles to watch.
Key questions include whether England will maintain their three-at-the-back formation, if Spain will reinstate their suspended key players, the fitness of Alvaro Morata, and whether Luke Shaw will start for England.
Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente and England’s manager Gareth Southgate face the challenge of selecting the optimal team and tactics to secure victory in the final at the Olympiastadion.
Both teams have navigated different paths to reach the final. Now, their focus is on assembling the right lineup, employing the best strategy, and perhaps even relying on a bit of luck.
Predicted Lineups:
Spain (4-2-3-1)
— Simon —
— Carvajal — Le Normand — Laporte — Cucurella —
— Rodri — Ruiz —
— Lamal — Olmo — Williams —
— Morata —
Morata’s fitness is a concern after an incident with a security guard during the celebrations of their semifinal win against France. If unfit, Ferran Torres or Joselu are alternative options, each offering different strengths. Meanwhile, Carvajal and Le Normand are expected to return to the defense after serving their suspensions, and their contributions will be crucial. Rodri and Fabian Ruiz have been exceptional in midfield, with Lamal, Olmo, and Williams forming a dynamic trio in attack.
England (3-4-2-1)
— Pickford —
— Walker — Stones — Guehi —
— Saka — Mainoo — Rice — Shaw —
— Foden — Bellingham —
— Kane —
Southgate is likely to retain the three-at-the-back system that has revitalized England’s performance in the tournament. The key selection dilemma revolves around whether to start Shaw or Trippier at left back. Shaw’s attacking prowess could help pin back Spain’s Yamal, with Trippier coming in later as a more defensive option. Mainoo and Rice will be tasked with controlling the midfield and disrupting Spain’s flow. Kane, despite fitness concerns, remains a central figure in the attack. Southgate will depend on his most experienced players to start, with the likes of Watkins, Ivan Toney, and Cole Palmer ready to make an impact off the bench.