Slovakia Seeks Historic Upset Against England.

England and Slovakia are set to face off in the UEFA EURO 2024 round of 16 on Sunday, June 30th at the Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen.

England, despite not being at their best, topped Group C with five points from three unbeaten matches.

Slovakia, on the other hand, pulled off a stunning upset by defeating Belgium 1-0 in Group E, showcasing their ability to take down bigger nations.

England's performance in the group stage was not convincing, with a stalemate against Slovenia sparking frustration among some fans. However, they remain undefeated at Euro 2024 and will be confident of reaching their fourth consecutive major international quarter-final, having beaten Germany at this stage in EURO 2020.

Slovakia, meanwhile, has a historic opportunity to reach their first quarter-final at a major tournament since gaining independence in 1993. They have shown impressive form, setting national records for shots taken (37) and shots on target (13) during the group phase.

The two teams have met six times before, with England winning five of those encounters. However, Slovakia's recent form and England's struggles suggest that this match could be a closely contested affair.

England coach Gareth Southgate acknowledges the challenge ahead, stating that Slovakia

"press high, they're aggressive in their defending, and you've got to find a way of breaking through that press."

He emphasizes the need for his team to find their next level and play at a high enough level to beat a strong opponent.

Slovakia coach Francesco Calzona, on the other hand, is confident in his team's ability to dictate the pace of the game and take the initiative. He notes that England are one of the tournament favourites but believes his team can cause an upset.

The possible starting lineups for both teams suggest a strong contest, with England's Harry Kane and Slovakia's Marek Haraslin likely to be key players. The match promises to be an exciting encounter, with both teams fighting for a spot in the quarter-finals against either Denmark or the Netherlands.

In conclusion, this round of 16 match promises to be a thrilling encounter between two teams with different strengths and weaknesses. Will England's experience and talent be enough to overcome Slovakia's determination and aggressive defending? Or will Slovakia pull off another upset and make history by reaching their first quarter-final at a major tournament? 

England possible starting lineup:
Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi, Trippier; Mainoo, Rice; Saka, Bellingham, Foden; Kane

Slovakia possible starting lineup:
Dubravka; Pekarik, Vavro, Skriniar, Hancko; Kucka, Lobotka, Duda; Schranz, Bozenik, Haraslin