Greece vs England: Lineups, Team News, Confirmed XI
The stage is set for a crucial Euro 2024 qualifier as Greece prepares to host England at the Olympic Stadium in Athens. Both teams are looking to make a strong statement in Group C, and this clash promises to be an intense and tactical affair. Let's delve into the key information, including confirmed starting lineups, team news, and potential surprises.
England's Momentum: A Dominant Force
England arrives in Greece with a strong head of steam. Their recent victories against Malta and North Macedonia have solidified their position at the top of Group C. Gareth Southgate's side will be looking to maintain their dominance and secure a vital away win.
Key Players to Watch:
- Harry Kane: The captain and talisman will be the focal point of England's attack. His goalscoring prowess and ability to hold up the ball will be crucial.
- Bukayo Saka: The Arsenal winger has been in exceptional form and will be a constant threat on the flanks. His pace and dribbling skills could be decisive.
- Jude Bellingham: The young midfielder is emerging as one of the most exciting prospects in the world. His energy and passing range will be vital in controlling the midfield.
Greece's Resilience: A Test for England
Greece, under the guidance of Gustavo Poyet, is no pushover. They demonstrated their tenacity in their previous qualifier, drawing against North Macedonia in a hard-fought encounter. Expect a tight and organized defense, with the home crowd providing fervent support.
Key Players to Watch:
- Kostas Fortounis: The experienced playmaker will be the key to unlocking England's defense. His vision and passing ability could create opportunities for Greece.
- Georgios Masouras: The versatile attacker will pose a threat on the flanks with his pace and dribbling skills.
- Sokratis Papastathopoulos: The veteran defender will be a crucial figure in organizing Greece's backline and keeping England's attack at bay.
Team News and Confirmed Starting XIs:
England:
- Doubtful: There are no major injury concerns for England.
- Possible Changes: Southgate might consider rotating his squad after the recent international break.
- Expected Line-up:
- Goalkeeper: Jordan Pickford
- Defense: Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, John Stones, Kieran Trippier
- Midfield: Declan Rice, Jude Bellingham, Mason Mount
- Attack: Bukayo Saka, Harry Kane, Raheem Sterling
Greece:
- Injuries: Greece is without key defender, Konstantinos Manolas.
- Possible Changes: Poyet could opt for a more defensive approach, with a focus on countering England's attack.
- Expected Line-up:
- Goalkeeper: Odysseas Vlachodimos
- Defense: Kostas Tsimikas, Sokratis Papastathopoulos, Dimitris Goutas, Panagiotis Retsos
- Midfield: Georgios Masouras, Andreas Bouchalakis, Kostas Fortounis
- Attack: Anastasios Bakasetas, Giorgos Giakoumakis
The Verdict: A Battle of Styles
The match between Greece and England promises to be a fascinating tactical battle. England's attacking firepower and technical prowess will be pitted against Greece's disciplined and organized defense. The home advantage and the fervent Greek support could be a significant factor in the outcome. This is a match where both teams will need to be at their best to secure a vital victory in their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign.
Stay tuned for live updates, pre-match analysis, and post-match reactions as Greece and England lock horns in this crucial encounter.