Euro 2024 final, England v Spain: Gary Neville feels the ‘time is now’ for Three Lions

Former England defender Gary Neville has a feeling that ‘maybe the time is now’ for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions to lift a trophy in Sunday’s Euro 2024 final with Spain.

Spain are the favourites to be crowned European champions having been the tournament’s standout team so far.

They started the group stage with a dominant 3-0 victory over Croatia, followed by narrow 1-0 wins against Italy and Albania, finishing top of Group B​.

In the knockout stages, Spain defeated Georgia 4-1 in the Round of 16, then faced hosts Germany in a dramatic quarter-final that extended into extra time. Mikel Merino's header in the 119th minute secured a 2-1 victory​.

Spain fell behind early in the semi-final with France but rallied with goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo to win 2-1, securing their spot in the final​. Their victory also marked Spain as the first team to win six consecutive matches in a single Euro tournament.

Spain will now face England in the final on July 14 at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, aiming to claim their fourth European Championship title​.

England's journey at Euro 2024 has been a mix of resilience and determination, coupled with memorable moments among underwhelming displays.

Southgate’s men beat Serbia 1-0 and then drew with Denmark and Slovenia.

Jude Bellingham’s breathtaking overhead kick got them out of jail against Slovakia, who were beaten in extra time thanks to a Harry Kane header.

And then Switzerland were seen off in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw in 90 minutes.

England showed their fighting spirit by coming from behind to beat the Netherlands 2-1, with Ollie Watkins climbing off the bench to snatch a dramatic late victory.

Former Manchester United defender Neville has a feeling Euro 2024 might be the tournament England get over the final hurdle having lost to Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.

He told Sky Sports News: "It's going to be a brilliant game on Sunday. The fact we're in there feels sensational.

"Now it feels like - I don't know if it's written in the stars in this last 10 days with the last minute goals, nearly being 80 seconds out of going out of a tournament, Ollie Watkins coming on and scoring a last-minute winner - but all these things give you a feeling that something's happening.

"They have to get through the game on Sunday, they can't rely on that as players, but in sport sometimes you get a sense that maybe the time is now.”

Harry Kane’s role in the England team has come under scrutiny from fans and pundits, with the Bayern Munich striker often looking like he is carrying an injury.

But he is the joint-top scorer at Euro 2024 with three goals and has taken his tally of career international knockout stage goals to nine - more than any other European player in history.

Ivan Toney and Watkins have made impacts off the bench - but Neville says there is no way Southgate would consider not starting his captain and talisman against Spain.

The Sky Sports pundit added: “Harry Kane has been absolutely sensational. I always called him gold when he was at Tottenham, you just know full well that he's going to deliver for you. He's a solid character.

"Harry Kane is someone, ultimately at this moment in time, who will not be dropped by Gareth Southgate.

“I know there is a sense that people think we are better without him, but it wouldn't send a great message to the squad internally. He's very clearly their leader and Southgate has full, total faith in him.

"And I also think if you're the opposition team, he is England's talisman. He's the man who has gone over to Germany this year and has ripped it up from a goalscoring perspective.”

Kane has etched his name into the annals of English football history through his remarkable contributions to the national team. Here, Sports News Blitz outlines his journey so far.

Early Career and Debut

Youth Levels: Kane's ascent through the ranks of England's youth teams, including U17, U19, U20, and U21, was a testament to his prodigious talent.

Senior Debut: On March 27, 2015, Kane made his senior debut in a UEFA Euro 2016 qualifying match against Lithuania. His impact was immediate and unforgettable, scoring within 80 seconds of entering the pitch, heralding the arrival of a new star in English football.

Major Tournaments

UEFA Euro 2016: Although the tournament was challenging for England, Kane's participation laid the groundwork for his future contributions. Despite not scoring, his presence was invaluable as the team navigated through a difficult campaign.

2018 FIFA World Cup: Kane's brilliance shone brightly on the world stage. He emerged as the tournament's top scorer with six goals, earning the coveted Golden Boot.

His leadership and scoring prowess guided England to the semi-finals for the first time since 1990, culminating in a respectable fourth-place finish.

UEFA Euro 2020: Postponed to 2021, this tournament saw Kane captain England to their first major final since 1966.

Despite the heart-wrenching defeat to Italy on penalties, Kane's crucial goals in the knockout stages were instrumental in England's memorable journey to the final.

2022 FIFA World Cup: Kane once again led England with distinction in Qatar, guiding the team to the quarter-finals. His two goals in the tournament saw him ascend to the position of England's joint all-time top scorer.

Achievements and Records

Captaincy: Appointed as the national team captain in May 2018 by manager Gareth Southgate, Kane has embodied the role with grace and determination.

Goalscoring Records: Kane's consistent goal-scoring excellence has seen him become England's all-time leading scorer, surpassing Wayne Rooney's esteemed record.

Key Matches: His career is dotted with extraordinary performances, including hat-tricks and decisive goals in qualifiers and Nations League matches, showcasing his invaluable contribution to the team.

Style of Play and Leadership

Playing Style: Renowned for his clinical finishing, ambidextrous scoring ability, and heading precision, Kane's versatility as a forward is complemented by his work rate, vision, and playmaking skills.

Leadership: As captain, Kane's calm demeanor, professionalism, and dedication have fostered a positive and resilient team spirit, earning him the respect and admiration of team-mates and fans alike.

Influence and Legacy

Role Model: Kane's unwavering commitment, professional conduct, and goal-scoring feats have made him an inspirational figure for aspiring footballers in England and around the world.

Impact: Kane's extraordinary contributions have revitalised England's competitive edge on the international stage, restoring pride and optimism to the nation's footballing ambitions.

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