England topped Group C despite a disappointing 0-0 draw against Slovenia, who made history by advancing to the Euro 2024 knockout stages for the first time. The goalless encounter left England fans frustrated for a third consecutive match, with the pre-tournament favorites managing just three shots on target in a lackluster performance.
Despite having already secured a spot in the last 16, England’s uninspiring display in the group stage ended with just two goals in three games, leading to growing concerns about their form. Meanwhile, Slovenia’s players and fans celebrated wildly as their third-place finish, with three draws, saw them through to the next round.
England captain Harry Kane tried to find positives in the situation, stating, “We can be proud of finishing top, it’s not easy in these major tournaments. It was a tough game but probably our best performance of the three. We pressed better but lacked a bit of magic in the final third. But that will come.”
England’s dominance in possession, holding 72% and completing 694 passes compared to Slovenia’s 208, failed to translate into meaningful opportunities. Slovenia’s defense, particularly Vanja Drkusic and Jaka Bijol, stood firm against the English attack.
A bright spot for England was their favorable positioning in the knockout draw, avoiding early clashes with heavyweights like France, Germany, Spain, and Portugal. Substitutes Cole Palmer and Kobbie Mainoo provided some much-needed energy and creativity, with Palmer injecting flair and Mainoo impressing in the second half.
England manager Gareth Southgate acknowledged the impact of the substitutes, saying, “They had a good impact for us and did good things. There were a lot of things to build on from tonight.” Regarding the fans’ reaction, he added, “It’s so important that they stay with the team, however they feel towards me.”
The match, played on a humid night by the Rhine, saw England’s fans initially in full voice but eventually silenced by their team’s lackluster performance. Bukayo Saka had a goal disallowed for offside in the first half, and England’s first real effort on target came in the 31st minute from Kane, easily saved by goalkeeper Jan Oblak.
Slovenia’s sole attempt on target was a straightforward header by Benjamin Sesko. England’s attacking struggles continued into the second half, despite taking a stranglehold on possession. Palmer’s introduction in the 70th minute brought a spark, but Slovenia’s defense held firm.
Slovenia’s coach Matjaz Kek praised his team’s resilience, saying, “I emphasise again the mental fortitude of this young team. They’ve shown their true colours.”
As England move forward, they must address their attacking inefficiencies to meet the high expectations set for them, while Slovenia celebrate their historic achievement and look to build on their success in the knockout rounds.
