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England and Slovakia are both teetering on the edge of elimination in a tight Group B, with a loss potentially ending their tournament. Catch all the live highlights and Euro 2016 action on The Roar from 5am (AEST).
Despite sitting on top of their Pool with a win and draw from two games, England are only holding onto a single point lead over Wales and today’s opponent, Slovakia, in the battle to reach the Round of 16.
A win will secure top spot, while even a draw would leave them a second place finish at worst, but the unexpected loss is always looming around the corner.
This is a factor England manager Roy Hodgson is well aware of.
“There are lots in the Slovakia team who we have to watch out for,” said Hodgson, “The front line are good attacking players. All we can do is hope our performance on the night is good enough to beat them.”
Following a 2-1 win over Russia in their last match, Slovakia are sitting precariously in their debut appearance at the Euros, basically needing a win to advance, otherwise leaving their fate in the hands of the Wales vs Russia game.
The Slovakians have lost all three encounters between the two sides since their split from Czechoslovakia in the 90s, their last effort conceding four goals to nil.
In team news, Hodgson has teased making alterations, especially up front, to his match day squad.
“The players are in good shape and it won’t be a problem if I want to keep the same side – but at same time there others who have been knocking hard at the door.” he teased.
“I have spoken to Harry (Kane), who has been very, very good in training over the last couple of days. I don’t think he has been suffering any more than any others players. But as far as Jamie and Daniel are concerned, they did very well and I’m sure would like another chance. It’s a decision that has to be made.”
Slovakia manager Jan Kozak, on the other hand, was much more blunt about his selections.
“I am going to make some changes to the team again, because the game demands it. England will be a different proposition from Russia,” he said.
“To be honest, we do not have a strong enough team to play an open game against a team like England. We have to focus on our style if we want to be successful.”
Prediction
While Slovakia have played quite strongly throughout the early goings of Euro 2016, it will be hard to see them getting through a side like England.
England to win by 2
Catch all the thrilling live action and highlights on The Roar from 5am (AEST).
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