Category: EURO 2024

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Gareth Southgate Faces Boos Ahead of Crucial Slovakia Clash

England Fans' Discontent: Southgate Faces Boos Ahead of Crucial Slovakia Clash(PIC: PA)
England Fans' Discontent: Southgate Faces Boos Ahead of Crucial Slovakia Clash(PIC: PA)

At Gelsenkirchen’s Arena AufSchalke, some England supporters showed their displeasure by booing as Gareth Southgate’s name was called over the public address system.

This response, which was timed to coincide with the Three Lions’ last-16 match against Slovakia, demonstrated the growing annoyance of fans with the way the squad has performed under Southgate’s direction.

Fans and commentators have been more critical of Southgate as a result of England’s lackluster performances at the tournament in Germany.

Despite winning their group and moving on to the next round, many England supporters are doubting the head coach’s tactics and choices in light of their team’s drab and uninspired performances.

When Southgate’s name was announced, jeers reverberated throughout the stadium, making their displeasure with him crystal clear.

This response came after a similar incident in which supporters heckled and threw beer glasses at Southgate during England’s goalless draw with Slovenia in their last group stage encounter. Southgate responded by fiercely applauding the travelling supporters in spite of the negative reception.

For the match against Slovakia, Southgate made one alteration to the starting lineup in an effort to rejuvenate the team. In midfield, Kobbie Mainoo, a teenage sensation, took Conor Gallagher’s spot.

In the otherwise lackluster game against Slovenia, where England was unable to muster any originality or cutting edge, Mainoo had looked promising.

This was England’s third midfield switch of the tournament; in the previous game, Gallagher had taken Trent Alexander-Arnold’s position due to the Liverpool star’s lackluster showings in an experimental role.

Ever since the tournament started, many have been questioning Southgate’s strategies. Critics charge him of stunting the inventiveness of a team full of elite players.

Gary Neville bemoaned the “basic” quality of England’s play during halftime against Slovenia, voicing disappointment considering the team’s potential.

The pressure on Southgate, who stated prior to the tournament that his ability to lead England to victory on a major stage would determine his future as manager, has only increased as a result of these critiques.

Southgate highlighted the stakes for the under-fire coach when he said, “If we don’t win, I probably won’t be here anymore,” in an interview with the German newspaper Bild.

Southgate is in his ninth year and fourth major tournament as England’s manager. He guided his team to the Euro 2020 final, where they lost to Italy in a penalty shootout. There’s never been more pressure to live up to the high standards.

The mood was tense as the match against Slovakia drew near, with supporters hoping that England’s fortunes would turn around.

Decisions made by Southgate, especially the choice of Mainoo, were perceived as a desperate attempt to give the team some much-needed originality and vigor.

A ray of optimism was provided by Mainoo’s youthful energy and potential in the face of growing criticism.

The fans’ response is a sharp reminder of how narrow the margins are in international sport. Based on a few performances, fans can turn managers from heroes to villains in their eyes.

The task for Southgate was not only to win games but also to regain the fans’ trust and loyalty.

As the Slovakian match progressed, all eyes were on Southgate and his strategy. The fans’ jeers sent a loud and clear message: performances and results count.

There is a lot of pressure to perform in football, particularly on the international stage, and Southgate’s position with England was in jeopardy.

The game was more than just a knockout encounter; it was a demonstration of Southgate’s leadership and motivational skills in the face of great pressure and expectation.

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Régis Le Bris: The New Dawn for Sunderland

Photo by VALERY HACHE/AFP via Getty Images

One of the longest managerial searches in Sunderland’s history came to a conclusion this past weekend when Régis Le Bris, a former manager of Lorient, was appointed. There is anticipation that the club is about to make a big breakthrough as a result of his arrival.

The hiring of Le Bris represents a significant change in course, which Sunderland almost accepted a year ago. Tony Mowbray was set to be replaced at the time by Francesco Farioli, but the club’s management chose to keep Mowbray in place. But it was always expected that the next permanent manager will come from abroad, and Le Bris is the example of that.

This choice is a new chapter in the history of Sunderland’s objectives. Le Bris is renowned for his capacity to mentor young players, which is important considering the club’s sizable French-speaking player base. His approach and experience fit Sunderland’s demands perfectly right now.

Gaining insight into Le Bris’s stint at Lorient offers important background. It’s important to remember that, despite the team’s Ligue 1 relegation the previous season, he guided them to their greatest top-flight result in ten years. But part of their downfall was the following selling of many of his important players.

Sunderland could have hurriedly appointed someone else and faced the prospect of Le Bris merely observing the final match of the season from the stands. Such a hasty decision might have left the club questioning the rationale if things had gone awry quickly.

Regarding the reasons why other candidates did not win the position, there has been a lot of conjecture and false information.

Many people who claim to have insider knowledge on social media have frequently made false claims in an attempt to gain attention. In all likelihood, the specifics of how near other contenders were to landing the job will stay a mystery.

The hiring of Le Bris is a part of Sunderland’s larger positive trend. The club has also revealed the date for the new home uniform, introduced a new club shop, announced goalkeeper Simon Moore as its first summer addition, and verified that the women’s team, the Lasses, will play more games at the Stadium of Light in the upcoming season.

All of these announcements coincide with the appointment of a new manager. These steps collectively foster an atmosphere of optimism that the club desperately needed.

Though there may be some early excitement, it’s important to give Le Bris the time he needs to put his plans into action. Social media users’ irritation and impatience, which implied the club was dormant, are unjustified.

In order to improve the team’s capabilities, Sunderland has hired a reputable manager with decades of expertise in young development, and it looks like he is putting together his own staff.

Le Bris needs and merits the community of Sunderland’s whole support. After a stale 2023–2024 season, the team wants to go forward, and before competitive play starts, there are a lot of things that need to be taken care of. Nonetheless, the team is headed in the right direction based on the early actions, like hiring a new head coach ahead of the preseason.

It is common for supporters to become unduly emotionalized by factors outside of their control; this is especially true when it comes to issues pertaining to the football team.

Rather, fans ought to relish the summer, relish the thrill of the European Championship, and have faith in the process that Sunderland is going through.

With Régis Le Bris leading the team, things appear bright and there’s a newfound optimism that the team will eventually make progress and realize its objectives.

Sunderland will need the community’s assistance as it gets ready for the upcoming season. Accepting this new chapter in the club’s history with Régis Le Bris may prove to be the pivotal moment for which the team has been waiting.

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Poland vs. Austria: Fans’ Reaction on Twitter/X Videos

Poland vs. Austria: Fans' Reaction on Twitter/X

The dramatic match between Poland and Austria in the Euro 2024 group stage ended with Austria winning 3-1 against Poland on June 21, 2024.

As the match progressed, supporters shared their humor, disappointment, and enthusiasm on Twitter/X. This is a compilation of some of the match’s more fascinating and amusing crowd reactions.

Polish football fans singing “Russian Whore” next to Russian the embassy in Berlin just before the Euro 2024 game between Poland vs Austria

The game began exuberantly, and in the fifteenth minute, a spectacular header by Marcel Sabitzer gave Austria the lead. Austrian supporters were overjoyed and flooded Twitter with happy tweets. A fan wrote on Twitter, “A real beauty, Sabitzer! How fitting to begin the match! #EURO2024 #AUTvPOL,” encapsulating the fervor of the occasion.

Poland quickly responded, tying the score with a strong header from their standout scorer, Robert Lewandowski, in the 25th minute. Polish supporters expressed their happiness and relief right away. One well-liked tweet said, “Lewandowski strikes again! Poland has rejoined the contest! ” emphasizing the renewed optimism among the Polish backers.

https://twitter.com/kronesport/status/1804141588131504349
Austria Fans: Berlin

Austria took the lead in the second half of the contest. Austria took the lead once more in the 55th minute thanks to a goal from Christoph Baumgartner, whose accurate shot sparked a wave of praise on Twitter. “Baumgartner’s goal was so sharp, it could cut through butter!” joked one fan in a funny tweet.

With a third goal to complete the victory, Austria enthralled their supporters. Tweets such as “3-1! What a show Austria gave! Moving forth and up! ” demonstrated the team’s resounding backing.

Poland fans in huge numbers around the Brandenburg Gate. Incredible atmosphere across Berlin so far today!

Polish supporters, on the other hand, showed their displeasure and annoyance at the defeat. Their emotions were perfectly captured in a moving tweet: “Heartbreaking loss for Poland.” Although Austria was the superior team today, we played well.

Austrian fans prank Swedish reporter at the Euro 2024

Football as usual With its insightful and entertaining analysis of the game, Twitter did not let down. Lewandowski and Sabitzer memes were extensively disseminated, bringing a playful element to the post-game conversations.

A highly well-liked meme depicted a made-up exchange between the two athletes, in which Sabitzer mockingly teased Lewandowski about the outcome.

Austria got a penalty for Sabitzer kicking Szczęsny in the face!

The Poland vs. Austria game was an exciting display of fan interaction on social media in addition to being a demonstration of skill and strategy on the field.

The fan replies on Twitter/X, which ranged from joyous tweets and emotional emotions to memes and comedy, increased the excitement of an already exciting game. As Euro 2024 goes on, it’s obvious that the fans’ fervor and excitement will play a big role in the tournament experience.

GERMANY : AUSTRIA vs POLAND FANS ENJOYING PRE-MATCH ATMOSPHERE IN BERLIN

Media Source: Twitter/X

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Why Robert Lewandowski was Benched in the First-Half against Austria?

Why Robert Lewandowski was Benched in the First-Half against Austria?

Robert Lewandowski, the all-time leading scorer for Poland, did not start Friday’s Euro 2024 Group D encounter at Berlin’s Olympiastadion against Austria.

Many were surprised by this choice, considering Lewandowski’s standing and track record. Michal Probierz, Poland’s coach, made some calculated decisions, but his recent injury was the main factor in this decision.

Lewandowski, a striker at FC Barcelona, was hurt in his thigh in Poland’s last warm-up before the tournament. He was unable to play in Poland’s first group match against the Netherlands due to this injury, and Poland lost 2-1.

Concerns about Lewandowski’s health and preparedness to play the entire game played a major role in the decision to bench him.

Instead of running the danger of making his injury worse, Poland’s medical staff and coach Probierz thought it was best to gradually get him back into action.

Poland suffered a major blow when Lewandowski, who has 82 goals for his nation, was out of the game. His ability in front of goal is unparalleled, and his very existence on the pitch usually lifts the spirits of his teammates.

Robert Lewandowski via Twitter/X

Lewandowski scored 26 goals in 49 games, despite Barcelona finishing the season without a trophy, highlighting his reliable play and value to whatever side he plays for.

Adam Buksa, who scored in the 2-1 loss to the Netherlands, was named in the starting lineup in Lewandowski’s place. He was assigned to the attacking tandem of Krzysztof Piatek and Poland.

Robert Lewandowski during Poland-Austria Game (Michael Kappeler/dpa)

Buksa and Piatek were started by coach Probierz in an effort to keep up a potent offensive line while giving Lewandowski more time to heal.

Ralf Rangnick, the coach of Austria, also altered his starting lineup a few times. He replaced Michael Gregoritsch as the lone striker with seasoned striker Marko Arnautovic.

Rangnick also made a change in his center-back lineup, inserting Gernot Trauner and Philipp Lienhart for Kevin Danso and Maximilian Woeber. Austria made these adjustments as part of their plan to bolster their offense and defense in an effort to win after losing to France 1-0 in their opening game.

Poland and Austria had both lost their opening games and were desperate for a victory. With Austria losing to France and Poland losing to the Netherlands, both sides’ chances of making it to the knockout stages depended on the outcome of this match. There was a great deal of strain, and each strategic choice had great consequences.

Lewandowski’s potential impact on the game did not diminish even after he was initially benched. It’s well knowledge that his ability to score goals may alter the course of a game.

Probierz probably left him off the field as a precaution, knowing that he might be added if the circumstances of the game called for him to be involved.

Robert Lewandowski’s recent injury and the necessity to carefully monitor his fitness played a factor in Poland’s deliberate choice to bench him for the pivotal Euro 2024 encounter against Austria.

Michal Probierz, the Polish coach, started Adam Buksa and Krzysztof Piatek in order to keep up a potent offensive line and give Lewandowski more time to heal.

Austria also altered their starting lineup significantly, underscoring the importance of the game for both sides. With Lewandowski prepared to contribute if necessary, Poland aimed to gain a crucial victory to maintain their tournament chances despite the absence of their star striker from the starting lineup.

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Euro 2024: Robert Lewandowski’s Return Strikes Terror into Austria Ahead of Key Match

Euro 2024: Robert Lewandowski's Return Strikes Terror into Austria Ahead of Key Match

As their pivotal encounter against Austria takes place on Friday, Polish supporters are ecstatic about the return of their favourite striker, Robert Lewandowski.

One of the greatest players in the world, Lewandowski, was out for the Group D opening because of a thigh injury. Although his absence was felt greatly, Poland is greatly enhanced by his return.

Against Turkey in the pre-tournament warm-up, Lewandowski suffered a thigh injury. He was not present for Poland’s first game, in which Adam Buksa gave them the lead.

Buksa made an effort, but Poland missed Lewandowski. Positive indications from his most recent workout, though, point to him starting against Austria.

Poland’s custodian, Wojciech Szczesny, highlighted Lewandowski’s influence. He’s the finest player Poland has ever had. His presence alters both our opponents’ and our own game.

It’s a different game when Robert is in the game.” Szczesny’s remarks demonstrate how Lewandowski motivates teammates and intimidates opponents.

Lewandowski was also praised by Michal Probierz, the manager of Poland, as “the world’s best.” Probierz understands the tactical benefit of having Lewandowski in good shape.

“Having the world’s best on the bench is different than having him play,” Probierz said.

This highlights Lewandowski’s contribution to the team’s success in addition to his scoring.

Poland’s hopes of making the tournament depend on the Austria game. Referring to it as “our mini-final,” Szczesny emphasised its significance.

Poland’s final game against France puts them in a difficult group. To maintain their hopes of making it to the knockout stage, they must win against Austria.

As he considered retiring, Szczesny stated that he was determined to go far. “I want to fight for bigger goals, and I believe this team can,” he stated.

Lewandowski took part in a 45-minute training session at the Olympiastadion on Thursday.

Probierz will evaluate Lewandowski’s performance before deciding whether or not to play him. For Polish supporters, the manager’s composed attitude and faith in his star player are encouraging indicators.

Lewandowski is absolutely essential to Poland’s plan. He is an essential component of their strategy because of his ability to score and create opportunities.

Even though players like Buksa have played well, everything changes with Lewandowski’s comeback. Poland is a far more formidable opponent because to his leadership and scoring prowess.

Lewandowski’s comeback is significant not only because of his physical presence but also because of the psychological lift he offers.

Szczesny emphasised the advantage of having more captains on the pitch. In crucial games like the one against Austria, Lewandowski’s leadership and expertise are important.

Poland’s objective is apparent as they get ready for their crucial match against Austria: win and advance to the next round. The squad is in a lot better position to succeed because Lewandowski is anticipated to return to the starting lineup.

The team, the manager, and the supporters can’t wait to see their favourite player back in action, prepared to change the game and guide Poland to victory.

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EURO 2024 Sports News

EURO 2024: Christian Eriksen Equals Denmark’s Appearance Record in Emotional Euro 2024 Match

Christian Eriksen Equals Denmark’s Appearance Record in Emotional Euro 2024 Match

On Sunday, Christian Eriksen made a spectacular return to the European Championship by participating in his first game since suffering a heart arrest during Euro 2020.

The incident that took place during Denmark’s match against Finland had a long-lasting effect on the football community. Eriksen made his comeback to the European stage in Denmark’s opening Group C match against Slovenia.

He not only left his mark, but also changed history! In addition to scoring the game’s first goal, Eriksen became Denmark’s oldest-ever goalscorer in the European Championship.

The below Twitter/X Video shows Kyle Walker Praises Manchester United Star Christian Eriksen Amid Friendly Rivalry

Kyle Walker piles on praise for Manchester United star who he has a “catch up” with from “time to time”

This performance was a potent demonstration of his fortitude and tenacity, showing his amazing recovery from such a horrible experience and his return to elite football.

On Thursday, Eriksen matched Simon Kjaer’s record for the most international appearances for Denmark, continuing his incredible journey.

In Denmark’s Euro 2024 Group C encounter against England, Eriksen earned his 132nd cap. Eriksen’s participation in the starting lineup cemented his crucial place in the Danish team, even if Kjaer started the game on the bench.

For years, Eriksen has been a pillar of Danish football, so reaching this milestone is an enormous accomplishment for him.

It is incredibly remarkable how he recovered from his cardiac arrest to such a high degree. It says a lot about his commitment, level of physical fitness, and extraordinary mental fortitude.

The match against Slovenia held considerable importance. Eriksen had a significant impact on the field to make it memorable. It was his first time playing in Europe since his near-death encounter.

Not only did it increase Denmark’s chances, but Eriksen’s first goal was also a symbol of his victory against hardship.

Eriksen’s narrative will surely inspire as Denmark advances in Euro 2024. From the terrifying moments of Euro 2020 to matching the record for national appearances and being the oldest Euro scorer, his story is one of optimism and tenacity.

Christian Eriksen’s return to Europe has involved several important milestones, both personally and professionally.

His appearances and performances bear witness to his enduring brilliance and unwavering spirit, serving as a role model for athletes worldwide regarding the importance of perseverance and hard work.

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EURO 2024 Sports News

High Stakes in Group C: Slovenia and Serbia Vie for Victory at Euro 2024

High Stakes in Group C: Slovenia and Serbia Vie for Victory at Euro 2024

On Thursday, Slovenia and Serbia will play their second Euro 2024 Group C encounter at Munich’s Allianz Arena. Following poor beginnings to their campaigns, both teams are keen to get a victory.

Slovenia came back from behind to draw 1-1 with Denmark, demonstrating their tenacity. Conversely, Serbia lost 1-0 versus England and could never bounce back from Jude Bellingham’s early strike in the 13th minute.

Dragan Stojkovic, the manager of Serbia, said that his team’s performance suffered as a result of their over-deference to England.

He underlined that Serbia needs to play Slovenia with less respect and more confidence. As the game against England went on, in Stojkovic’s opinion, Serbia performed better, and they should take that improved play into the encounter against Slovenia.

Petar Stojanovic, a winger for Slovenia, is excited about the encounter and calls it a “phenomenal” contest. After their tie with Denmark, Slovenia’s confidence has marginally increased, and they hope to build on that success.

Both Slovenia and Serbia have an identical head-to-head record, with one victory apiece and six draws in their meetings. Based on previous matchups, this statistic indicates that the forthcoming game may be hotly contested with no obvious favorite emerging.

Both teams are under pressure to win in order to maintain their position in the competition. Slovenia will rely on their strong defense and counterattacking skills, spearheaded by their ace goalkeeper Jan Oblak. Aleksandar Mitrovic, the team’s forward, will lead Serbia’s offensive attack as they attempt to penetrate Slovenia’s defense.

Serbia under Stojkovic needs to get past the mental obstacle that hindered them against England. They must get out to a fast start and keep up their intensity throughout the game.

Slovenia under Stojanovic, on the other hand, will try to control the game’s tempo and take advantage of any holes in Serbia’s strategy.

For both teams, the game at Allianz Arena is expected to be crucial. Serbia and Slovenia will put everything on the line to earn a vital win since their prospects of qualifying for Euro 2024 are on the line. The result of this match will have a big impact on their hopes of moving on in the competition.

Serbia and Slovenia have a balanced head-to-head record and are evenly matched. After a lackluster start to their Group C campaigns, both clubs are under pressure to win.

Slovenia wants to build on their draw with Denmark, while Serbia wants to move on from their defeat to England by being more self-assured and disrespectful of their opponents. Both teams will be fighting for a vital win to maintain their hopes of qualifying for Euro 2024, so the game is sure to be fiercely contested.

Today’s Match Overview:

  • Match Details: Slovenia will play against Serbia at the Allianz Arena in Munich on June 20 as part of their second Euro 2024 Group C clash.
  • Current Standings:
    • Slovenia: Drew 1-1 against Denmark in their opening match.
    • Serbia: Lost 0-1 to England in their opening match.

Head-to-Head Record:

  • Total Matches: 8
  • Wins:
    • Slovenia: 1
    • Serbia: 1
  • Draws: 6
  • Goals Scored:
    • Slovenia: 11
    • Serbia: 13

UEFA Euro Record:

  • Slovenia:
    • Wins: 0
    • Draws: 3
    • Losses: 1
    • Goals For: 1.25 per match
    • Goals Against: 1.50 per match
  • Serbia:
    • Wins: 3
    • Draws: 2
    • Losses: 10
    • Goals For: 1.47 per match
    • Goals Against: 2.67 per match

Insights from Managers and Players:

  • Serbia’s Manager Dragan Stojkovic: He acknowledged that his team showed England “too much respect” in their 1-0 defeat. He emphasized the need for Serbia to play with more confidence against Slovenia, drawing on their improved performance later in the match against England.
  • Slovenia’s Winger Petar Stojanovic: He expressed optimism about the upcoming match, anticipating a “phenomenal” game. Slovenia aims to build on their positive result against Denmark.

Key Players:

  • Slovenia:
    • Goalkeeper: Jan Oblak
  • Serbia:
    • Forward: Aleksandar Mitrovic

Match Significance:

  • Both teams need a win to stay competitive in Group C after their initial setbacks. The match is crucial for their hopes of advancing in the tournament.

Light Analysis:

  • Slovenia: Their ability to come from behind and secure a draw against Denmark demonstrates resilience. They will look to leverage this strength against Serbia.
  • Serbia: The need to overcome their initial psychological barrier is critical. Serbia must start strong and maintain intensity throughout the match.

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EURO 2024 Sports News

End of an Era? Croatia’s Aging Star Face Harsh Reality at Euro 2024

End of an Era? Croatia's Aging Star Face Harsh Reality at Euro 2024

Croatia’s aging golden generation, led by Luka Modric, faced a crushing 3-0 defeat against Spain. Modric, now 38, who has been a stalwart for his national team, experienced a bittersweet milestone.

Playing in his ninth major tournament, Modric joined an elite group of European players alongside Cristiano Ronaldo and Lothar Matthaus.

Despite this historic achievement, the match underscored the inevitable challenges of aging for both Modric and his team.

The clash between experience and time’s inexorable passage was brought to light by the Croatian captain’s performance.

It is amazing how long Modric has stayed in the game; he made his FIFA World Cup debut in 2006 as a substitute and has since grown to be a representation of skill and tenacity.

But against Spain, there was a clear disparity between youth and experience. The youngest player in the competition, 18-year-old Lamine Yamal, stood out with a performance that epitomized the new generation of talent that is dominating.

Not only did Spain’s victory mean that Croatia was defeated, but it also might have marked the end of an era. Modric, who defies aging with his young body and baggy shorts, found it difficult to keep up.

With 375 caps between them, the Croatian midfield demonstrated its passing prowess but fell short of applying enough pressure.

The lack of speed and intensity, especially on the wings, was called out by manager Zlatko Dalic, underscoring the difficulties faced by an aging team.

The wider problem of Croatia’s reliance on its experienced players is shown by this loss. The core of the team has been formed by Modric, Marcelo Brozovic, and Mateo Kovacic as a midfield trio.

However, their combined expertise was insufficient to make up for the lack of youth required to equal Spain’s dynamism.

Dalic made the wise tactical choice to replace Modric and Kovacic after 65 minutes in order to save their legs for the forthcoming games against Italy and Albania.

At Real Madrid, Modric now frequently plays as an impact replacement and splits responsibilities with Toni Kroos.

This adaptation recognizes his physical limitations while yet reflecting his enduring quality. Modric is adamant about pushing the limits of his career in order to continue being a vital member of his national team, in contrast to Kroos, who intends to retire after UEFA Euro 2024.

The future of Croatia seems dubious. With the exception of exceptional defender Josko Gvardiol, the next generation has not yet shown the same caliber of brilliance as their forebears.

Their prospects are further complicated by the team’s difficulty replacing important players like Mario Mandzukic and Ivan Perisic.

The team’s shortcomings have been made evident by Dalic’s tactical changes, which have included trying Gvardiol in an offensive left-back role. However, the changes have not produced the expected results.

Croatia’s current situation serves as a sobering reminder of the cyclical nature of sports, despite their historical fortitude.

As a squad that has frequently exceeded expectations, they find themselves at the bottom of their group, a situation they are unfamiliar with. Dalic expressed regret for the subpar performance and emphasized the need to identify and fix the issues.

More than just a setback for Croatia, the defeat by Spain at Euro 2024 served as a painful example of the difficulties facing an aging golden generation.

After so many amazing successes and years of success, Modric’s remarkable career is now at a crossroads. The game was a sobering reminder that even the most durable legacies eventually have to face the passage of time, as Croatia struggles to usher in a new era.

Croatian football’s future will rely on how well they can create a new direction by combining their seasoned veterans with up-and-coming potential.

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France Team Captain Mbappé Rallies Young Voters to Defend Democracy in Snap Polls

France Team Captain Mbappé Rallies Young Voters to Defend Democracy in Snap Polls (PHOTO: AFP)

Ahead of France’s approaching parliamentary elections, Kylian Mbappé, the captain of the national football team, issued a passionate statement encouraging youth to vote and cautioning against the spread of radical beliefs.

The 25-year-old Mbappé emphasized the value of taking part in the political process and the important role that youth can play in determining the direction of the nation.

He made these remarks at a press conference in Duesseldorf, Germany, as France is getting ready to play Austria in their opening Euro 2024 match.

Mbappé made it clear that he opposed radical and polarizing beliefs while remaining independent of any political party.

He supported Marcus Thuram, a teammate, who had earlier urged the French people to actively prevent the far-right National Rally (RN) from taking power.

Thuram’s remarks had caused considerable controversy, but Mbappé defended him, saying that in light of the present political atmosphere, Thuram’s remarks were appropriate and justified.

Mbappé emphasized how crucial the next elections are and said that the state of affairs is unlike anything that has ever happened in French history.

He underlined that the players are still citizens first and need to maintain a sense of reality in the outside world, regardless of how important their jobs and the forthcoming Euro 2024 competition are to them. With his recent move from Paris Saint-Germain to Real Madrid, Mbappé’s impact and speaking platform have grown even further.

Mbappé made it apparent in his call to action that young people should exercise their right to vote and understand its power.

He made the argument that radicals were on the verge of taking control and that it was up to the young people to decide how their nation would develop.

He emphasized that tolerance and diversity ought to serve as the nation’s guiding ideals and made an appeal to them.

Since the far-right groups, like Marine Le Pen’s National Rally, won almost 40% of the vote in the most recent French EU elections, Mbappé has not openly spoken politics until now.

Following these results, President Emmanuel Macron announced a quick poll for the National Assembly, which might pave the way for the RN to overtake the other parties and take the lead.

The French Football Federation (FFF) released a statement in response to Thuram’s remarks, advising the team to maintain their neutrality and resist any use or pressure from politics.

The FFF underlined their respect for the right to free speech but asked that the squad’s impartiality be upheld. Mbappé argued that talking politics will not have an impact on their play on the field, despite this.

He emphasized that one problem would not obstruct the other and that the impending vote was more important than the game itself.

Source: AFP

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EURO 2024 Sports News

From Mbappe’s Speed to Griezmann’s Grit: Why France is the Team to Beat Everyone at Euro 2024

From Mbappe’s Speed to Griezmann’s Grit: Why France is the Team to Beat Everyone at Euro 2024 [Clodagh KilcoyneReuters]

With a wealth of talent and a competent coach in Didier Deschamps, the France national football team is on the verge of winning its first European Football Championship in 24 years.

France is the clear favorite going into Euro 2024 because to stars like Antoine Griezmann and Kylian Mbappe, carrying on their tradition of being the favorites going into important competitions.

Table of Contents

⚽France’s Historical Performance and Current Squad⚽

The European Championship has a rich history for France, as they have won the competition twice (1984 and 2000). The team this year is especially powerful because it is made up of both young, talented players and seasoned veterans.

The team’s depth is demonstrated by the ease with which rising talents like Mike Maignan and William Saliba have replaced retired legends Hugo Lloris and Raphael Varane. Paul Pogba’s absence in midfield has been adequately covered by Aurelien Tchouameni.

Marcus Thuram, the probable replacement for the seasoned Olivier Giroud, has demonstrated strong play at Inter Milan, suggesting a smooth transfer in the forward line. This steady stream of talent highlights the strength of France’s player development system, which is essential to their long-term success.

⚽Team Culture and Management⚽

Deschamps has fostered a culture within the team where success as a whole is valued above individual recognition. His capacity to control egos and promote a cohesive team environment has been essential.

His tactical style is demonstrated by the reintegration of players who had previously been at odds, such as Adrien Rabiot and Karim Benzema, before to Euro 2020.

Deschamps’ efficient management is seen in Benzema’s four goals in four games during that tournament and Rabiot’s rise to prominence as a vital midfield player.

Considering his injury history and few Chelsea appearances, N’Golo Kante’s selection for Euro 2024 is a testament to Deschamps’ ability to combine meritocracy and faith.

After Kante moved to Al Ittihad and got back to form, Deschamps realized how important he was to the team. Deschamps makes decisions by combining strategic vision with faith in his players’ skills.

⚽Teams Integration of Youth and Experience⚽

Young players like Bradley Barcola and 18-year-old Warren Zaire-Emery are also part of the Euro 2024 squad. Together with more experienced players like Griezmann and Kante, this youthful addition makes for a well-rounded and exciting squad.

Even at 33, Griezmann continues to be the team’s vitality, filling in in different capacities as required. At the 2022 World Cup, he proved his versatility by playing a superb midfield role and proving how valuable he is.

⚽Important Figures and Tactical Dynamics⚽

Unquestionably the team’s focal point, Mbappe led the team in assists and goals during the qualification campaign.

But Griezmann is just as important because of his versatility as a playmaker. He had to play on the left side at Euro 2020 in order to make room for Mbappe and Benzema. He successfully switched to a midfield position in the 2022 World Cup.

The way that Clark contributes to the dynamics of the team and how Angel Reese dominates in securing double-doubles both show the individual contributions that make up the team effort.

The tactical advantage that Chennedy Carter offers off the bench is essential for getting over attacking stutters and poor starts.

⚽Upcoming Matches and Prospects⚽

The matches that France has in its group include those against Poland, the Netherlands, and Austria, all of whom provide different difficulties.

The team is prepared and has the right mix of youth and experience to take on these opponents. Heartbreak has marked France’s recent European Championship campaigns: a surprising departure in the 2020 round of 16, followed by a loss in the 2016 final.

Nonetheless, their supremacy over the previous 10 years is highlighted by their World Cup victory in 2018 and their steady results.

  • June 17: Austria vs France (Dusseldorf Arena, Dusseldorf, 9pm local/19:00 GMT)
  • June 21: Netherlands vs France (Leipzig Stadium, Leipzig, 9pm local/19:00 GMT)
  • June 25: France vs Poland (BVB Stadion, Dortmund, 6pm local/16:00 GMT)

⚽ France’s final squad for Euro 2024 ⚽

Captain: Kylian Mbappe

Goalkeepers: Alphonse Areola (West Ham United), Mike Maignan (AC Milan), Brice Samba (Lens)

Defenders: Jonathan Clauss (Marseille), Ibrahima Konate (Liverpool), William Saliba (Arsenal), Jules Kounde (Barcelona), Theo Hernandez (AC Milan), Ferland Mendy (Real Madrid), Benjamin Pavard (Inter Milan), Dayot Upamecano (Bayern Munich)

Midfielders: N’Golo Kante (Al Ittihad), Eduardo Camavinga (Real Madrid), Adrien Rabiot (Juventus), Antoine Griezmann (Atletico Madrid), Aurelien Tchouameni (Real Madrid), Warren Zaire-Emery (Paris Saint-Germain), Youssouf Fofana (AS Monaco)

France has a fantastic chance to establish themselves as one of the greatest national teams in history in Euro 2024.

France is the clear favorite and poised to add another European Championship to their impressive record because of their well-rounded team, capable management, and emphasis on team success.

SOURCE – aljazeera

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Why Spanish Football Players Don’t Sing Their National Anthem Before Games? Researched!

Why Spanish Football Players Don't Sing Their National Anthem Before Games

National anthems are a potent representation of pride and unanimity in the world of international sports. Both players and fans frequently sing them with a lot of emotion and zeal.

The Spanish national football team is a noteworthy exception, though, since its players stay mute throughout the playing of their national anthem before to games.

One of the few national songs in the world without official words is “La Marcha Real” (The Royal March), the national anthem of Spain.

Originally intended to be a military march, it was composed in the 18th century. “La Marcha Real” has always been instrumental, despite numerous attempts to add lyrics over the course of its lengthy history.

“La Marcha Real”‘s lack of lyrics can be attributed to its genesis and the convoluted past of Spain. The anthem’s words were introduced during the Francoist era, but they were removed once democracy took hold.

Because of Spain’s numerous and sometimes divisive regional identities, attempts to restore lyrics have frequently encountered opposition.

With distinct languages and cultures, Catalonia, the Basque Country, and Galicia are just a few of Spain’s many strong regional identities.

It has proven difficult to write songs that fairly portray all Spaniards without singling out any particular group. This sensitivity to cultural and political differences is a major factor in the anthem’s continued use.

The Impact on the Spanish National Football Team

The instrumental anthem sets Spanish football players apart from many of their peers in their pre-match ritual. The players for Spain pause for thought or silence when other teams may be belting out their anthems.

Notwithstanding this distinction, Spanish athletes and supporters nevertheless find other ways to show their enthusiasm in their country, like chanting, flag waving, and other demonstrations of support.

There is no proof that the absence of lyrics affects the team’s performance or morale. Conversely, Spain has had a great deal of success in the international arena, having won the UEFA European Championship in 2008 and the FIFA World Cup in 2010. This accomplishment shows that the lack of sung lyrics does not lessen the team’s passion and togetherness.

In spite of—or maybe precisely because of—its lack of lyrics, the Spanish national song, “La Marcha Real,” continues to be a source of pride for the country.

Spain’s intricate historical and cultural background has helped to preserve its instrumental form. The quiet power of the anthem is a distinctive symbol of Spanish football players’ and supporters’ identity and solidarity.

What Google says about – “Why Spanish Football Players Don’t Sing Their National Anthem Before Games?”

This blog post was written by Priya Singhania, author @09sports.com

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EURO 2024 Sports News

Last 5 Champions of Euro 2004-2021 | EURO 2024

Last 5 Champions of Euro 2004-2021 | EURO 2024

It is a great moment to look back on the last five European Championship winners from 2004-2023 as we get ready for Euro 2024. Every one of these competitions added a distinct flavor to the football globe with moments to remember and exceptional plays. This is an in-depth look at the winners from Euro 2004 to Euro 2021, accompanied by my opinions about their victories and the influence they had on the game.

EURO 2004: Greece’s Unforgettable Miracle Run

Cristiano Ronaldo after the 2004 final (Getty: Images)

One of the most incredible competitions in football history took place in Portugal during Euro 2004. Under Otto Rehhagel’s leadership, Greece overcame all obstacles to win the championship. Their voyage served as a master class in tactical discipline and defensive resiliency. Greece defeated the defending champions, France, in the quarterfinals after first defeating the host country, Portugal. They defeated the Czech Republic in the round of sixteen before meeting Portugal once more in the championship game. One of the greatest underdog stories in sports was achieved when Angelos Charisteas’ header sealed a 1-0 victory.

Greece’s victory demonstrated the value of planning and teamwork over individual talent. It demonstrated that even the most unlikely teams could succeed if they had the correct attitude and structure. Smaller footballing nations continue to draw inspiration from this success.

Euro 2008: Spain’s Tiki-Taka Revolution

With Spain’s victory in Euro 2008 in Austria and Switzerland, international football entered a new era. Under Luis Aragonés’ management, Spain popularized “tiki-taka,” a style defined by quick passing and holding onto the ball. The Spanish team, which included players like David Villa, Andrés Iniesta, and Xavi, dominated the competition. In the end, they triumphed 1-0 over Germany, with Fernando Torres scoring the game-winning goal.

Football was changed by Spain’s win. Numerous teams throughout the world were impacted by their emphasis on skill and ball management above physicality and direct play. Spain’s golden age, which saw them win the 2010 World Cup and Euro 2012, began with this victory.

Euro 2012: Spain’s Dominance Continues

During Euro 2012, which Poland and Ukraine co-hosted, Spain maintained their supremacy. Spain’s performance under Vicente del Bosque was even more brilliant as they held onto the crown. They produced some of the most captivating football the competition had ever seen, which led to a 4-0 annihilation of Italy in the championship game. Their attacking capabilities were demonstrated by goals from Juan Mata, Jordi Alba, David Silva, and Fernando Torres.

Spain became the most successful international team in history after winning the 2010 World Cup and winning back-to-back European Championships. Their superior tactical adaptability and midfield domination allowed them to dominate games.

Euro 2016: Portugal’s Grit and Glory

Cristiano Ronaldo limped out of the final but Portugal prevailed thanks to a typically tough performance by Pepe. (Getty: Images)

Portugal won their first major international trophy at Euro 2016 in France. Portugal’s campaign, led by Cristiano Ronaldo, was marked by tenacity and willpower. They put on tough performances to go through the knockout stages, despite coming in third in their group. Ronaldo’s injury early in the tournament dealt Portugal a serious blow in the final against France. But they persevered, and in extra time, Eder’s long-range goal gave them a 1-0 triumph.

Portugal’s victory was a tale of tenacity and cohesion. Ronaldo’s guidance was crucial, both on and off the field. This victory not only enhanced Ronaldo’s legend but also demonstrated the value of mental toughness and squad depth.

Euro 2021: Italy’s Resurgence

The COVID-19 pandemic forced a postponement of Euro 2020 to 2021, but Italy made a triumphant return to the top of Eurofootball, with several nations hosting the competition. Italy demonstrated a combination of their newfound attacking flair and conventional defensive solidity under Roberto Mancini. They fought off England in the Wembley final, emerging victorious 3-2 on penalties following a 1-1 deadlock. Those crucial moments came from Leonardo Bonucci’s equalizer and Gianluigi Donnarumma’s heroics in the shootout.

Italy’s triumph represented a stunning comeback after their 2018 World Cup qualifying defeat. Mancini’s ability to combine seasoned players with up-and-coming talent gave the Italian game a welcome twist. Their accomplishments proved how crucial smart team rotation and tactical creativity are.

Euro 2024: Final Thoughts

Italy team celebrates with the trophy after winning the Euro 2020 final against England at Wembley stadium in London, England, July 11, 2021. (AP Photo)

These previous winners serve as a reminder of the unpredictable nature of Euro 2024 as well as the variety of winning styles. Every tournament has added a different chapter to the history of European football, from Greece’s underdog tale to Spain’s tiki-taka dominance, Portugal’s tenacity, and Italy’s comeback.

Opinion: It looks like another exciting race for Euro 2024. We might have a fascinating tournament with countries like Denmark and Croatia emerging as dark horses and teams like France, Germany, and Belgium displaying impressive form. Considering previous winners teaches us important lessons about strategy, collaboration, and how the beautiful game is always changing.

As a sports journalist, I am eager to witness which team will leave their mark on the history of European football as the countdown to Euro 2024 approaches.

*This article was made by Tushar, author @09sports.com

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