Published on: Oct 10, 2024 1:20 pm IST|Updated on: Oct 10, 2024 1:20 pm IST
England will look to extend their perfect start under interim manager Lee Carsley when they take on Greece at Wembley Stadium in the UEFA Nations League on Thursday.
Date: 10 October 2024 Venue: Wembley Stadium, London Competition: Nations League – League B, Group 2
Historically, England have dominated this fixture, with seven wins from their last nine meetings against Greece, including a memorable 4-0 friendly win in 2006. However, Greece’s newfound confidence and their current top-of-the-table position suggest this could be a much more competitive affair.
England’s recent form: WWWLWW Greece’s recent form: WLLWWW
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After two victories in September, Carsley’s side is aiming for another win to top the group, but they face stiff competition from a Greek side that also boasts two wins from two games. The midweek clash promises to be an intriguing battle between two teams fighting for dominance in Group 2.
Since taking the reins as interim manager, Lee Carsley has brought a fresh, organized approach to England’s game. Despite being constantly questioned about his future in every press conference, Carsley has managed to stay focused and lead England to back-to-back 2-0 wins over the Republic of Ireland and Finland. Declan Rice and Jack Grealish helped secure the victory against Ireland, while Harry Kane celebrated his 100th appearance with a goal against Finland.
Although Carsley has made an excellent start, England’s interim boss will know that maintaining momentum is key, especially with Greece now standing in their way. Carsley’s chances of landing the job full-time could heavily depend on England’s ability to secure top spot in the group, and with Greece leading by goal difference, Thursday’s game has added importance.
Greece have emerged as serious contenders in League B after comfortably dispatching Finland (3-0) and Ireland (2-0) in September. Under their new manager, Ivan Jovanovic, the Greeks have demonstrated that they belong in the higher echelons of European football. Jovanovic replaced Gus Poyet in August and has already guided his team to two impressive victories. Despite being recently promoted from League C, Greece’s early results suggest that they are well-equipped to challenge for promotion to League A.
With 13 Nations League victories since the tournament’s inception — more than any other team — Greece have consistently performed well in this competition. However, they face a daunting task in London, where England will have home advantage and an attacking unit that can test any defense.
Pickford; Alexander-Arnold, Stones, Colwill, Lewis; Rice, Bellingham; Saka, Palmer, Foden; Watkins
Vlachodimos; Rota, Mavropanos, Koulierakis, Tsimikas; Siopis, Kourbelis; Masouras, Bakasetas, Tzolis; Pavlidis
GK: Pickford
DEF: Mavropanos, Alexander-Arnold, Stones
MID: Bakasetas, Rice, Bellingham, Kourbelis
FW: Tzolis, Saka, Masouras
Despite Greece’s early success in the Nations League, England’s superior firepower and home advantage should be enough to see them through. Even without a fully fit Harry Kane, the attacking talent of players like Foden, Alexander-Arnold, and Watkins should give the Three Lions the edge. Greece will struggle to break through England’s solid defense, and without Ioannidis, their attacking threat will be significantly diminished. We predict England will maintain their 100% record under Carsley with a 2-0 win.