England qualified for the quarter-finals of EURO 2024 after defeating Slovakia 2-1.

After a lacklustre run through the group stage, England showed no signs of improvement in the round of 16. However, with individual brilliance, the defending runners-up struggled to overcome Slovakia and reach the quarter-finals.

Manager Gareth Southgate fielded a familiar lineup. The only change came in the most predictable midfield position. Kobbie Mainoo was picked instead of Trent Alexander-Arnold or Conor Gallagher as in the group stage.

England continue to disappoint in their playing style. (Photo: Reuters)

However, the appearance of the young Man Utd talent did not make a significant difference. The English team still had a deadlock in attack despite having more possession (75% in the first half) than their opponents.

Stuck in attack, the defending champions also failed to maintain their only strength, which was their defense. During the period of pushing up the formation in the first half, England conceded a goal from the opponent’s counter-attack.

With just a long ball from home, a successful aerial challenge, Slovakia opened up a chance when the English defense had not yet closed the gap. Ivan Schranz beat goalkeeper Jordan Pickford in a one-on-one to score the opening goal in the 25th minute.

England were deadlocked for most of the match. (Photo: Reuters)

With the goal, Slovakia proactively retreated to establish a defensive position. England had to attack, but this was still the weakness of the “Three Lions”.

Coach Southgate’s expensive stars still play disjointedly, cannot coordinate with each other and do not have the individual handling skills that are often seen at the club.

England’s best attack of the tournament came early in the second half. Phil Foden cut inside, creating space for Kieran Trippier to charge forward to receive a cross. The defender assisted Foden to finish close range into the Slovakia net.

However, VAR intervened and determined that the English player was offside. The goal was canceled.

After this situation, England did not have another shot on target until the 5th minute of added time (out of the 6 minutes added). Jude Bellingham rescued England with a flying overhead kick that left the opposing goalkeeper standing and watching the ball go into the net.

Bellingham saved England from defeat. (Photo: Reuters)

After equalizing and taking the match into extra time, England took the lead. 3 players on the field in the second half, Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze and Ivan Toney, took turns to touch the ball before the chance fell to Harry Kane. England’s number 9 striker headed the ball into the goal to make it 2-1.

England pressed for a few more minutes before returning to their usual style of play, prioritizing safety. Slovakia pushed up their formation to attack in the second period of extra time.