The Scots captured a well-deserved point at Wembley in a traditional British duel. England did not present themselves as a title candidate again and disappointed across the board.
London. The world’s oldest football duel (premiered in 1872) brought EM flair to London on Friday more than ever in this final: English and Scottish fans flooded the city, largely watching hordes of Delta version party-goers It was completely forgotten. 22,500 lucky people were allowed to attend the 115th “Battle of Britain” at Wembley Stadium, and the rain was already pouring in the hymns in a real British manner.
The distribution of roles seemed clear: Scotland are back in a tournament for the first time since the 1998 World Cup, with England being the favorites of the title. Initially, the three lions did not live up to this claim. Defender John Stones, one of two newcomers to the starting line-up, headed for the post after a corner kick (12th), but saw little of the highly acclaimed English offensive.
When Scotland Plays Ball Relay
Young stars Phil Foden or Mason Mount didn’t even get down to their tempo dribble, the game was too static and striker Harry Kane was not involved at all except for a header next to the goal (29th). The Scots not only held up against it with the famous fighting heart, but played straight again and again: Steve O’Donnell forced a brilliant save with a volley shot (31st) to goalkeeper Jordan Pickford.
Did Gareth Southgate not have an idea, or couldn’t his team put it into practice? England played fast after the break, but that didn’t make them any more dangerous. Everything just piecemeal, long shots and standard. The pressure was also half-hearted, so Scotland showed ball relays. The fear of embarrassment became increasingly noticeable among the British, but the dismal zero number came close to one anyway. The Three Lions may still win the group against the Czech Republic, but their first title win since the 1966 World Cup is clearly out of reach in this form.
The Scots, however, fell into each other’s arms after the final whistle, with their fans celebrating the 0–0 almost like a win. With complete success against Croatia and a little luck, promotion even to the knockout stage is possible.
Will London lose the final?
It is therefore doubtful whether English fans will still be interested in the long-awaited final (11 July), as well as whether it will go as far as the semi-finals in London with 45,000 spectators. Due to the stringent travel restrictions caused by Delta Mutants, the “Times” reported talks between UEFA and the British government. Above all, it should be about the quarantine exceptions for VIP guests. Otherwise transfer to Budapest may take place. UEFA commented cautiously on the article: “There is always an emergency plan in place, but we are confident that the final week will be held in London.”
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