England has secured a spot in the last 16 of Euro 2024 with a game left to play in the group stage, thanks to Spain’s 1-0 victory over Albania. This outcome also means that the Netherlands and France will be progressing to the knockout phase from Group D.
Even though England’s final Group C match against Slovenia is scheduled for Tuesday, they are already guaranteed a spot in the next phase. The team, managed by Gareth Southgate, has accumulated four points from a 1-0 win against Serbia and a 1-1 draw with Denmark. Despite the draw, Albania’s loss ensured that England would be among the top four third-placed teams.
If England manages to defeat Slovenia, they will secure the top spot in Group C. However, even a draw could see them finish first if Denmark fails to beat Serbia. In the event of a draw and a Denmark victory, the two teams will be ranked based on goal difference, goals scored, and disciplinary points.
In the scenario where England finishes as group runners-up, they will face hosts Germany in Dortmund on Saturday. If they end up in third place in Group C, England will either play against the winners of Group F, Portugal, in Frankfurt on Monday, or the Group E winners in Munich on Tuesday.
In terms of potential opponents, Austria is currently in third place in Group D, while all four teams in Group E are tied on three points. The Czech Republic holds the third spot in Group F, with a better goal difference over fourth-placed Georgia.
With their qualification already secured, England now has the opportunity to focus on their final group stage match against Slovenia and potentially secure the top spot in Group C. The team and their fans can look forward to the knockout phase with confidence and anticipation as they aim to make a strong impact in the tournament.