Sports journalist Oli Kay, football analyst Jack Pitt-Brooke, and sports commentator Tim Spiers discuss if England's success at Euro 2024 is due to luck or skill. They analyze England's journey to the final, Gareth Southgate's role, and the team's mentality. The podcast delves into England's strategic improvements, historical patterns, and luck with refereeing decisions, while also discussing strategies to beat Spain in the upcoming match.
England's success in Euro 2024 reflects resilience and improved decision-making under Gareth Southgate's leadership.
Gareth Southgate's strategic substitutions highlight his flexibility and team-focused approach in England's victories.
Deep dives
Babe Dietrichson Zaharius' Versatility in Sports
Babe Dietrichson Zaharius showcased exceptional versatility in sports by excelling in various disciplines, winning gold in the 80m hurdles, javelin throw, and a silver in the high jump at the 1932 Summer Games. Beyond these accomplishments, she ventured into billiards, professional golf with 10 major championships, and even made pitching appearances in Major League Baseball Spring Training Games.
England's Winning Mentality and Improved Performance
England's remarkable transformation under Gareth Southgate's leadership is evident through their comeback victories and late goals in the Euro 2024 tournament. Despite past struggles, the team has shown resilience and a newfound winning mentality, delivering compelling performances and demonstrating improved decision-making in crucial moments.
Impact of Substitutions on England's Success
Gareth Southgate's strategic substitutions, like bringing on Olly Watkins and Cole Palmer to secure crucial wins, have been pivotal in England's success. These timely changes have showcased Southgate's flexibility and ability to utilize his squad effectively, emphasizing a collective team effort rather than reliance on individual star players.
Southgate's Effective Management and Tactical Adaptability
Southgate's managerial skills have been crucial in reshaping England's team culture, fostering unity, and instilling a winning mentality. Despite tactical critiques, Southgate's clear vision, bold squad selections, and adaptability to changing game dynamics have propelled England to the Euro finals and instilled confidence in the team's capabilities.
England left it late, but thanks for Ollie Watkins' last minute winner are through to the final at Euro 2024.
So are they now good, or just really lucky having relied on a number of big moments throughout the tournament?
Ayo Akinwolere is joined by The Athletic's Oli Kay who was in Dortmund for the 2-1 win over the Netherlands as well as Jack Pitt-Brooke and Tim Spiers to analyse England's route to the final and the role of manager Gareth Southgate.