Despite leading Group C with an unbeaten record, England manager Gareth Southgate is facing intense criticism from passionate fans following a disappointing 0-0 draw with Slovenia at Cologne Stadium on Tuesday.
The match, which ensured England's advancement to the knockout phase of Euro 2024, was expected to be a straightforward win. However, the lackluster performance left supporters frustrated, with some even jeering and throwing beer cups as the final whistle blew.
Southgate expressed his astonishment at the reaction, stating, \"I've not seen any team qualify and receive similar.\" He reflected on his tenure, noting, \"We've made England, over the last six or seven years, fun again. I think it has been enjoyable for the players. We've got to be very, very careful that it stays that way.\"
England's journey in this tournament has been underwhelming, with only one victory against Serbia, a 1-1 draw with Denmark, and the recent stalemate with Slovenia. Former captain and BBC presenter Gary Lineker didn't hold back, using strong language to describe the team's performance against Denmark.
Looking ahead, Southgate remains optimistic about the knockout stages, especially after securing a favorable draw away from football powerhouses like Spain, France, Germany, and Portugal. Captain Harry Kane echoed this sentiment, saying, \"That was the aim before the start of the tournament. Come top of the group and control our destiny. I thought we played a lot better than the other two games. We just couldn't find that final finish.\"
As England prepares for the challenges ahead, all eyes will be on the team's ability to elevate their performance and live up to their status as tournament favorites.
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England boss Southgate targeted after 0-0 draw with Slovenia at Euros
cgtn.com
