After a narrow win in the round of 16, England will face Switzerland in the quarter-finals of the Euros early on July 7th. In an article titled “Why England still have a chance to win the European Championship”, the BBC outlines three factors that could help the Three Lions lift the trophy.
The article points out that Jude Bellingham’s last-minute overhead kick saved England from a humiliating exit at the hands of Slovakia. Their next opponent, Switzerland, is a team that eliminated the reigning champions Italy in an impressive manner. England’s poor performances have diminished their chances of winning. So, why does the BBC still believe England has a chance?
One reason is that “Southgate has the resources to correct his mistakes.” The match against Switzerland will be Southgate’s 100th game in charge of England. So far in the tournament, Southgate has been searching for solutions to the midfield problems. He tried Arnold and Rice in the second group game, Gallagher against Slovenia, and Mount against Slovakia. He may now consider a three-at-the-back formation. England’s good fortune is that the coach has a wealth of options at his disposal, a luxury not enjoyed by many teams.
The second reason is “the Bellingham factor.” The media points out that Bellingham is England’s “X factor,” and his brilliant goal with 86 seconds remaining against Slovakia proved it. The 21-year-old Bellingham, who won the La Liga and Champions League in his first season at Real Madrid, has further enhanced his confidence and composure. If there is one player who makes you feel anything is possible, it is Bellingham for England.
The third reason is “a replication of history, England’s form is improving.” In the 1990 World Cup, England started their campaign with a 1-1 draw against Ireland, prompting the Italian newspaper La Repubblica to headline “Is this all England has got?” However, Robson’s side switched to a five-man backline in the tournament, which helped them reach the semi-finals, only to be eliminated by West Germany on penalties. In the 2024 European Championship, England has followed the same path, drawing consecutive group stage matches and struggling in the first knockout round. They will try to make changes to address their balance issues, and making bold alterations midway through a tournament is risky but, as history shows, it can work.
In conclusion, the BBC points out that England should not underestimate Switzerland. But if the team can unleash its potential, it can go all the way!
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