Slovakia Stun Europe, Set Sights on England at Euro 2024
In a surprising turn of events, Slovakia have defied the odds and secured a place in the knockout stages of the Euro 2024 tournament. As the only Pot 5 team to reach the finals, they have exceeded expectations and are now preparing to take on England in a highly anticipated showdown this Sunday in Gelsenkirchen.
Less than two years ago, Slovakia’s poor performance in the Nations League, including home defeats to Kazakhstan and Azerbaijan, had condemned them to be drawn at the same levels as teams like Gibraltar, Latvia, and Cyprus. However, the arrival of new manager Francesco Calzona has been a revelation, as he has transformed the team’s playing style and mindset.
“He changed not only the style of the game, but also our way of thinking,” said wicked Lukas Haraslin ahead of the clash with England.
Slovakia’s journey to the last 16 is not entirely new, as they reached this stage in 2016 before being eliminated by semi-finalists Germany. However, the national media back home are warning that the English may be underestimating their opponents, with one headline in the Pravda newspaper reading, “The English do not take the Slovaks seriously,” citing Jude Bellingham’s recent admission that he did not know who England would be facing in their next game.
Facing the Favorites
Slovakia are not intimidated by the prospect of facing Gareth Southgate’s side. In fact, experienced midfielder Ondrej Duda believes they have a chance against the favorites, stating, “They are of course favourites and have great quality, but they haven’t dazzled in Germany yet.” Slovakia’s shock 1-0 win over Belgium in their opening game encapsulated everything many fans hoped England to be at this tournament – high pressing, dogged, and committed.
The Slovakian team is well-drilled in transition and strong at defending their own 18-yard box, with only Portugal, Germany, and Ukraine facing fewer crosses. Their settled team, including former Scudetto winner Milan Skriniar, and directness in attack, with the form of Lucas Haraslin and Ivan Schranz, pose a real threat to England’s defense.
A Chance for Upset
Despite England’s raw attacking talent, Slovakia’s reputation for running out of legs and dropping off may work in their favor. As Napoli midfielder Stanislav Lobotka said, “You can say that England are not at their best, but at some time they will click and kick on, it is just a question of when.” However, Slovakia have the tools to show England that they should not be underestimated, and the match promises to be an exciting and closely contested affair.
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