Switzerland will pose ‘big tactical challenge’ for England – Gareth Southgate
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Gareth Southgate understands that England, despite their struggles, must improve their performance if they want to defeat the formidable Switzerland team in the Euro 2024 quarter-final this Saturday.
Get ready for a journey to Dusseldorf because Jude Bellingham saved the day with a spectacular overhead goal in the 95th minute against Slovakia. Harry Kane then secured a 2-1 victory in extra time.
England was very close to being eliminated from the tournament in a very embarrassing way, but managed to narrowly advance to the quarter-finals for the fourth time in a row under Southgate's leadership.
The team showed great determination in their match in Gelsenkirchen, but their performance overall was concerning. They will need to step up their game when they face the Swiss on Saturday, especially after being runners-up in Euro 2020.
"You expand on the determination they have demonstrated, the confidence they have acquired from it," stated Southgate.
Similarly, we are not inexperienced. We are going up against a team that has shown exceptional skill, not only in this competition but also for a long time. This will present a significant strategic test for us.
We understand that we will need to step up our performance, but there was a strong sense of camaraderie and unity that has been growing.
We encountered numerous challenges while preparing for the camp and during the tournament.
We are addressing various issues and providing chances for young players. We are managing to make things work somehow.
I can picture how everyone will respond to that, even though we came out victorious. However, we are still standing and the one thing that no one can doubt is our strong desire, dedication, and character.
Young prodigy Bellingham showcased that determination when he skillfully scored in extra time to rescue England's campaign, then defended his team against critics by calling their comments "nonsense."
"Yesterday he turned 21 and is thriving," Southgate mentioned. "I have a good understanding of his life that not many others do. His life is unique compared to other 21-year-olds."
"He has made a significant difference at his clubs and for his national team, even though he is still young. He is likely to express himself and react to situations in the way that young people typically do.”
"But what he offers us are these instances where he seizes control and the essence of his character, and his persona generates pivotal moments that can alter the outcome of a significant match."
"He has delivered for us once more. He scored two crucial goals for us in this competition already. He's a fantastic person to work with, always striving to succeed."
Furthermore, I believe he is aware that we are offering our support as he navigates the obstacles and changes that come with being part of the national team, as it presents a unique environment.
Few people know this better than defender John Stones, who has moved from Manchester City, a team that regularly wins the Premier League, to his fifth big international tournament.
I believe that the match against Switzerland will present completely new challenges in terms of tactics - equally as tough, equally as intricate, and requiring a different approach to overcome.
The defender, who is 30 years old, stated after the victory against Slovakia that England could "ease up a bit" following the emotional win on Sunday. Southgate seemed taken aback by these comments.
"He said last night's game was a perfect example of cup football. Cup football is often about showing your character, heart, and spirit."
"We weren't able to defend effectively right from the beginning and we had trouble getting past their strong press tactics. It was well-coordinated and we struggled to find a way to break through their initial defensive line."
"That wasn't just a minor issue we could fix easily, it was a major problem trying to advance the ball to the midfield. There is a significant distinction between the two."
I believe that the match against Switzerland will present entirely new tactical challenges - just as tough, just as intricate, and requiring a different strategy to overcome.
"We have some time to recuperate over the next few days, which will be crucial for assessing our energy levels and any potential injuries."
"Clearly, Marc (Guehi) won't be available for the next game either, so we have a lot to consider."
The England team will be without their centre-back Guehi, who received his second yellow card of the tournament and is now suspended. However, there is a possibility that Luke Shaw could play in the upcoming matches as he has recovered from a hamstring injury that has kept him out since February.
Southgate acknowledged that England is facing some challenges with their team balance due to the absence of a left-footed left-back. However, he chose not to substitute him during the match in Gelsenkirchen.
"I believe there is potential in that," he said. "Even though we could have included him, he has not had much experience in full team training, so it would have been a significant gamble."
"Some additional practice and further proof of his current skill level will be beneficial for us."
