Spain enjoyed the lion’s share of possession but had little to show for it against England as the score remains locked 0-0 at half time of the Euro 2024 final in Berlin.
Although Spain have failed to create many clear-cut opportunities in the opening 20 minutes, they have patiently worked the ball up into the final third on multiple occasions.
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La Roja’s best chance came from when Nico Williams received the ball wide on the left and drove towards goal with only John Stones in his path.
However, the England defender made a perfect sliding challenge to intervene and halt Williams’ advances.
England have found success down their right flank when Bukayo Saka gets the ball and drives towards Marc Cucurella, but their star forwards have largely struggled to get involved thus far.
The Three Lions did manage a shot on target, but only in first half stoppage time when Phil Foden lashed a volley but Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon saved it.
Prior to the game, England boss Gareth Southgate made a bold selection call by handing Luke Shaw his first start since February in their only change.
The Manchester United left-back has only recently returned to fitness after a long spell on the sidelines with a hamstring injury but has appeared as a substitute in the quarter and semi-finals.
Shaw replaces Kieran Trippier and has the unenviable task of stopping Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The Barcelona winger, who turned 17 yesterday, became the youngest player to ever score at a Euros in La Roja’s 2-1 semi-final win over France.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente makes two changes as Robin Le Normand and Dani Carvajal return from suspension in place of Nacho and Jesus Navas.
TEAMS
England: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Rice, Mainoo, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
Spain: Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Ruiz; Yamal, Olmo, Williams; Morata
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