England analysis: Cole Palmer provides a moment to remember on a night to forget

Gareth Southgate admitted ‘Spain were better’ after seeing England fall at the final hurdle once again, losing 2-1 in the Euro 2024 showpiece in Berlin on Sunday night.

The Spaniards went into the final as clear favourites having been the tournament’s standout team, and they dominated possession from the first whistle.

Southgate’s Three Lions have displayed resilience and bravery throughout Euro 2024, however, and kept Spain at bay in the first half, with Phil Foden firing a late chance straight at the keeper.

Spain broke the deadlock two minutes after the restart, though, with Nico Williams coolly slotting the ball past Jordan Pickford to spark wild celebrations among the Spanish fans.

Southgate sent on Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer, who had combined for England’s late winner against the Netherlands, but this time it was Chelsea star Palmer who found the net, steering home a clinical finish on 73 minutes.

Spain recovered their composure, however, and broke England fans’ hearts with a winning goal from Mikel Oyarzabal with just four minutes remaining.

Spain saw out the closing stages to ensure England lost back-to-back European Championship finals, having lost to Italy on penalties in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

And a dejected Southgate told ITV Sport: "We had a decent period and got the equaliser, but I think the physical toll of the issues we came into the tournament with, the extra-time periods, having as little of the ball as we did ultimately took a big toll and I think that was part of the reason why legs started to go and you start to make mistakes.

"That physical toll was definitely an issue for us with others in the group as well. Of course, that's exacerbated when you don't keep the ball earlier in the game.

"There was a lot stacked against us, with having a day less to recover from the previous game and the extra time periods we did, but we have to hold our hands up - Spain were better."

Southgate admitted his side’s plans had been hampered by injury problems and fatigue, with Luke Shaw only able to start in the final and Harry Kane looking well off the pace in every game.

The England boss added: "There's no hiding we've had some issues coming into the tournament, we've managed to deal with most of them and got Luke [Shaw] out, but we've just fallen short in the end.

"The players have got to take enormous credit to get us to the point we did, but when you get as close as that you've got to take your chances.

"The character, the resilience they've shown, I just think we didn't keep the ball well enough. They had more control of the game and that was probably the main difference. I just think against Spain, they press well, you have to keep the ball when you win it back.

"Defensively we were fine in the first half, you just have to retain the ball a little bit better. In the end, maybe that's the bit that takes a little bit out."

Attention now turns to whether Southgate will extend his managerial tenure with England, with his contract due to expire in December.

Here, Sports News Blitz takes a look at Southgate’s managerial record so far.

Early Management

Middlesbrough: Southgate began his managerial career with Middlesbrough in 2006, shortly after retiring as a player.

His tenure there until 2009 demonstrated his early promise as a manager.

England U21

England U21 Manager: Southgate took charge of the England U21 team in 2013, guiding them to the 2015 UEFA European Under-21 Championship.

Despite a challenging tournament, he earned respect for his ability to develop young talent.

England Senior Team

Appointment: Southgate was appointed as the interim manager of the England senior team in September 2016 following the departure of Sam Allardyce.

His appointment was made permanent in November 2016.

Philosophy: Known for his calm demeanour and emphasis on nurturing young talent, Southgate has been widely praised for creating a positive team culture.

Achievements as Manager

2018 FIFA World Cup:

Performance: Southgate masterfully led England to the semi-finals, their best World Cup performance since 1990.

England finished fourth after a valiant effort against Croatia in the semi-finals and Belgium in the third-place playoff.

Impact: His leadership and the team's success revitalised national interest in the England team, earning him widespread acclaim and admiration.

UEFA Euro 2020:

Performance: Southgate guided England to the final, their first major tournament final since 1966.

England's journey, although ending in a penalty shootout defeat to Italy, was a testament to his outstanding leadership.

Recognition: His exemplary management throughout the tournament further solidified his revered status, despite the final loss.

UEFA Nations League:

2018-19: England reached the semi-finals of the inaugural UEFA Nations League under Southgate, finishing third, marking another significant achievement.

2022 FIFA World Cup:

Performance: Southgate led England to the quarter-finals, where they were narrowly defeated by France.

The team displayed strong performances, maintaining their competitive stature in international football.

Legacy

Development of Youth: Southgate is celebrated for integrating young talents into the national team set-up, providing a nurturing platform for future stars.

Cultural Impact: His approachability and articulate nature have made him a respected and beloved figure, both within football and in broader English society.

Tactical Acumen: Southgate has demonstrated tactical flexibility and intelligence, adapting his strategies to different opponents and circumstances with remarkable skill.

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