Greece vs. England: Lineups, Team News, & Injuries
The stage is set for a crucial Euro 2024 qualifier as Greece hosts England at the Olympic Stadium in Athens. Both teams are locked in a tight battle for top spot in Group C, with the Three Lions currently leading the pack. This clash promises to be a thrilling encounter, and fans worldwide are eagerly anticipating the action.
Greece Team News & Injuries
Greece comes into this match with a strong defensive record, but they will be without key players due to injuries. Manolis Siopis is ruled out with a hamstring injury, while Georgios Masouras is also sidelined with a knee problem. The absence of these key players will undoubtedly impact the Greek lineup.
Expected Lineup:
- GK: Vlachodimos
- RB: Tzavellas
- CB: Mavropanos
- CB: Retsos
- LB: Kyriakopoulos
- CM: Bakasetas
- CM: Kourbelis
- RM: Fortounis
- LM: Paltsios
- ST: Pavlidis
- ST: Gyakoumakis
England Team News & Injuries
England is brimming with confidence after a dominant 7-0 victory over North Macedonia in their last qualifier. However, manager Gareth Southgate faces some selection headaches as several key players are nursing injuries.
Raheem Sterling, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka are all doubtful due to knocks picked up in recent matches. Kyle Walker remains sidelined with a groin injury. Despite these absences, England boasts a wealth of talent, and Southgate will be confident in fielding a strong starting XI.
Expected Lineup:
- GK: Pickford
- RB: Trippier
- CB: Stones
- CB: Maguire
- LB: Shaw
- CM: Rice
- CM: Bellingham
- RW: Mount
- LW: Grealish
- ST: Kane
- ST: Calvert-Lewin
Key Matchups
The match will likely be decided by the battle in midfield, where Declan Rice and Jude Bellingham will aim to control the tempo for England. Greece will look to Andreas Bouchalakis and Sotiris Alexandropoulos to disrupt the flow of the game and create opportunities for their forwards.
Another key area will be the battle between the English wingers and the Greek fullbacks. Harry Kane's movement and goal-scoring instincts will be a constant threat to the Greek defense.
Prediction
This match promises to be a tight and tense encounter. While England is the favorite on paper, Greece's strong defensive organization and home advantage cannot be overlooked.
Ultimately, England's superior individual talent and depth might just be enough to secure a hard-fought victory.
Prediction: Greece 1-2 England
This clash will undoubtedly be a fascinating tactical battle, with both teams looking to secure three crucial points. Stay tuned for updates and analysis as the match unfolds.