The Three Lions host Spain in their first match since the World Cup

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The Three Lions take on Spain at Wembley Stadium on Saturday for the UEFA Nations League. After a successful World Cup for England, they are in a tough group with Spain and Croatia. Spain will aim to pick up the pieces after a unsuccessful World Cup in Russia. England head coach Gareth Southgate will be looking to build on the Three Lions World Cup success.
Harry Kane has a shot in a friendly match against Spain
Image Source: Sky Sports
         
In goal, England have Everton keeper Jordan Pickford who had a fantastic World Cup for the Three Lions as he made crucial saves against Columbia and Sweden to reach the semi finals. Leicester City centre back Harry Maguire was a key player in the Three Lions World Cup success as he kept the back line solid. Another player who has been on great form is Tottenham right back Kieran Trippier, who scored a brilliant free kick against Fulham two weeks ago, and in the WC semi finals against Croatia. In the middle, England have Dele Alli who had a 78% pass accuracy rate at the World Cup and helps England play attacking football. And up front is Harry Kane who scored six goals for the Three Lions and won the Golden Boot.
Harry Kane celebrates after he scored the winning goal against Tunisia at the World Cup
Image Source: talkSPORT

Despite Spain having a disappointing World Cup in Russia, they have a fighting chance of winning this match and making their fans proud again. The captain Sergio Ramos is a player that can influence the game by keeping the back line solid, and scoring crucial headers. Chelsea left back Marcos Alonso, is having a great season in the Premier League and has a 86% pass accuracy rate for The Blues. As Alonso didn't play in the World Cup, this is his chance to secure his spot on the national team and potentially bring Spain back to glory. The player to watch for Spain is attacking midfielder Isco who has played a key role in helping his club team Real Madrid win multiple Champions League and La Liga titles. Isco hasn't had the same success with the national team, however with hard work anything is possible.
Sergio Ramos is devastated after his side lose on penalties to Russia in the World Cup
Image Source: NDTV Sports

This match will be interesting as we will be able to see the level that these teams are at after the World Cup. Since there are only three teams in the group, a loss could cost the team already. For me it is unclear who the favorite is to win this match, so do not miss this game.


Sources:
  1. Onefootball
  2. https://www.theguardian.com/football/2018/jul/15/harry-kane-world-cup-golden-boot-john-stones 
  3. Flashscore

Comments

  1. AnonymousSeptember 18, 2018 at 3:22 PM

    Thank you for letting me use your blogs as a teaching tool for English B.

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