Analysis of England's Euro 2024 Semi-Final Victory

Opening Remarks

• Presenter: Adam Cleary from 442 Magazine
• Context: England are through to the final of Euro 2024.
• Opponent: Spain (England are considered underdogs).
• Humorous Mention: Ross Kemp's introduction was referenced.

General Observations

• Many might think there wasn't a major tactical narrative, but there was a significant development under Gareth Southgate.
• England used a back-three, two wing-backs, double-10 system.
  • Similar to the system used against Switzerland.
  • Transitioned to a 4-2-3-1 during the match.

Tactical Analysis

• Dutch System: Left a huge opportunity for England’s midfield.
  • The Dutch press with a front three but their aging center-backs (Van Dijk and DeLigt) don't push up.
  • This creates a gap between the forwards and defenders, giving midfielders space.
  • The Dutch chose to sit back, allowing England possession.
• England’s Usage of Possession: First time England had significantly more possession in a major tournament game.
  • Key Players: Phil Foden and Kobby Mayu.

Key Players Performance

• Kobby Mayu: A Defensive Asset
  • Played higher up the pitch, pressing effectively.
  • Disrupted Dutch counter-attacks by winning duels and reading the game well.
• Phil Foden: Tactical Mastery
  • Impactful in various offensive roles – floating off defense, finding gaps, driving forward, etc.
  • Benefited from a tactical resemblance to his usual playing environment at Manchester City.

Match Dynamics

• First Half Dominance:
  • England capitalized on possession, with a high pass map in the final third.
  • Dutch defensive shape and man-marking allowed England space.
  • Foden and others utilized this space effectively.
• Second Half Adjustments by the Dutch:
  • Dutch realized their initial strategy wasn’t working and pushed up aggressively.
  • Led to England being forced back.
  • Example: Harry Kane’s positioning and lack of pace for running behind defenders.

Southgate’s Substitution Success

• Ollie Watkins Substitution:
  • Replaced Harry Kane (known for not running behind defenses).
  • Watkins’ run behind led to a crucial winning goal.
  • Demonstrates Southgate’s adaptability and ability to make impactful changes.

Conclusion

• Gareth Southgate’s Tactical Choices: Mixed Opinions
  • The substitution of Ollie Watkins was pivotal.
  • Highlighted Southgate’s responsiveness and tactical flexibility.

Final Thoughts

• Fan Reactions and Feedback:
  • Encouraged viewers to share their thoughts on England’s control and performance.
  • Debated the role of luck in the penalty decision.
• Upcoming Content: Encouraged subscriptions and feedback on 442 Magazine’s content.

Social Media and Contact Info

• Social Media: @AdamCleary on various platforms.
• Magazine Info: Available in stores.
• YouTube Channel: Encouraged viewers to subscribe for more content.

Closing Remarks

• Personal Note: Adam expressed his excitement and signed off humorously.