Despite the Netherlands’ hopes, it wasn’t to be. On Sunday, July 14, Spain will face England in the UEFA Euro 2024 final at 9.00 pm. This outcome has stirred considerable discussion in the international media, with both teams taking different paths to this ultimate clash.
Spain, under the leadership of Luis de la Fuente, remains unbeaten and has displayed the most impressive football of the Euro 2024 tournament. In contrast, England has struggled through each match, placing their coach under significant pressure.
British media favour Spain
The British press widely acknowledges the strength of the Spanish team, universally agreeing that Spain is the favourite to win the title. This sentiment is based on the merits of Luis de la Fuente’s squad and the weaknesses within the English team.
The Athletic views Spain as the top contender for the victory but cautions against underestimating England. “Spain is the most complete team we’ve seen in the tournament. They are lively, creative, and brilliant in their attacks. However, Southgate’s team has improved during the knockout phase. Spain is the favourite, but England is on the rise.”
The Guardian highlights England’s resilience: “Following Bellingham’s goal against Slovakia and the heroic penalty shootout against Switzerland, we witnessed the last signs of belief in this team.”
Manchester United legend Roy Keane, speaking on Sky Sports, added: “Sometimes the stars align. Spain plays the best football, but there seems to be something special happening with England, which gives confidence.”
ITV Sport states: “Spain is the favourite in the final, but sometimes it’s written in the stars… They should have been eliminated a week ago, but now they have the momentum. It’s going to be a great final against Spain.”
BBC experts also recognise Spain as the clear favourite. Alan Shearer acknowledges that they have everything needed to succeed. Chris Sutton points out that Luis de la Fuente’s team is on a different level compared to any other team in this tournament. Meanwhile, Micah Richards expressed his concerns about Spain’s ability to adapt to any style of play: “They seem to be a very balanced team, and I think they are the clear favourites.”
Spanish performance and English hope
The Express praises Spain’s unbeaten run against strong opponents like Croatia, Italy, Germany, and France: “Now they must ensure the outcome of this final is different from previous encounters.”
Local British media note two faces of England in this Euro. “The team that struggles against low-block defences and the team that thrives with time and space. Spain won’t play defensively, which provides opportunities for players like Phil Foden to shine. Spain is the favourite, but the individual quality of some English players can break the Spanish defence.”
Unwavering confidence from Luis de la Fuente
After reaching the round of 16, Spain coach Luis de la Fuente expressed unwavering confidence in his squad. “I believe no one is better than us,” he stated, noting that the team was improving with each game and had significant potential for further growth. Upon learning that England would be Spain’s opponent on Sunday, he declared: “The two best teams have reached the final.”