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      England fans will drink Benidorm dry as they sink £1.30 pints in the sun ahead of Euros clash with Slovenia

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      BOOZED-UP Brit holidaymakers are gearing up for England’s clash with Slovenia tonight – with punters set to pack out Benidorm bars.Die-hard fans kitted out in England gear have been chanting “Come on England” as they down pints in the sun ahead of the final group game.Brits in Benidorm say they’re optimistic about tonight’s game against SloveniaCredit: Louis WoodBen Webber, Andy Matthews and Steve Matthews will start drinking at middayCredit: Louis WoodEda and Elis predict Harry Kane and Bellingham will scoreCredit: Louis WoodJake Nuttall (crouching), Lee Nuttall (middle), Mark (left) and Darren Bambert (right) are excited about England’s matchCredit: Louis WoodBeer is flowing in pubs across BenidormCredit: Louis WoodSun-loving tourists have flocked to the popular Spanish party resort not only to enjoy a holiday but to cheer on England at the Euros.Booze is flowing in pubs across Benidorm – with St George’s flags on every corner adding to the party atmosphere.England are already through to the knockout stages of Euro 2024 – with the Three Lions taking on Slovenia in their final group match in Cologne tonight. But they still need a win to guarantee a top spot – and an “easier” last-16 tie.READ MORE ON EUROSAnd holidaymakers in Benidorm are optimistic the Three Lions will come out on top – with predictions showing Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham as most likely to score.Fans are planning to get the celebrations started early – packing out Benidorm’s bars and pubs to down bargain £1.30 pints.Londoner Steve Mathews, 55, who travelled to Spain for his pal Andy’s birthday bash, said the group will start drinking “early” around 12pm ahead of the much-anticipated game.He told The Sun: “We’re going to the Marina here in Benidorm. I love the Euros I get really excited I’m looking forward to it.Most read in Euro 2024″[We’ll start drinking at] midday. We’ll take it easy as the game is not until 8pm… have a good time and enjoy life.”Speaking about the team’s chances, Steve said: “The performance has definitely got to be better than the last one.’World’s hardest geezer’ tells England heroes they can win Euros in rallying cry as he runs to every Three Lions game in GermanyTourist season has kicked off in BenidormCredit: Louis WoodPubs and bars are getting ready before the gameCredit: Louis WoodSt George’s flags are in every corner of the holiday resortCredit: Louis WoodHe added: “The last one was dreadful – hopefully 3-1 for England and we qualify at top. And we get the easier teams to play.”Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham – two headers I reckon.”Three Lions fans Eda Kazimirczac, 18, and her pal Elis Davidova, 18, said they were excited for England to win.”Kane and Bellingham will score for sure,” they said.Jake Nuttal, 24, from Preston, was positive that England would beat Slovenia.But he wasn’t go sure the team will bring it home in Euro 2024.Jake told The Sun: “I hope we win, but I doubt we are the way Gareth Southgate is going at the minute. But you never know.”Asked about tonight’s clash, he predicted: “England 2-1. Bellingham and Fodden.”‘We’re struggling with and without the ball’, admits Harry KaneHARRY KANE admits England “haven’t been good enoughHere’s what skipper Kane said after the disappointing 1-1 draw with Denmark:”We’re struggling with and without the ball.”The pressing in both games hasn’t been quite right. We haven’t been good enough, from top to bottom, from me to Picks (Jordan Pickford).”Everyone is dropping below their level a bit, in terms of retaining the ball, playing under pressure.”We know there’ll be a bit of noise and disappointment back home.”But it’s a time to stay calm and we’ll get there step by step.”It wasn’t our greatest game but we got away with draw.“We are starting games well. But when the teams are dropping a few players deeper we are not quite sure how to get the pressure on, and who is the one who is supposed to be going.”“In the second half, we changed it with me and Jude (Bellingham)  playing in front of their two midfielders. But it was difficult.”England’s place in the next round has been confirmed by Spain’s 1-0 win over Albania.Southgate’s men go into tonight’s game already on four points after beating Serbia and a draw with Denmark.But England’s clash against Slovenia is still an important game as they will lose their top spot if they lose.A win for Slovenia would see them overtake England and move into first place thanks to their decent performance in the tournament so far.And a draw wouldn’t necessarily be enough for England as Denmark beating Serbia would leave us equal on points.If England go through second, the Three Lions will be forced to face old rivals Germany for a place in the quarter-finals.It means Southgate’s team will need a high-scoring match tonight. No matter what happens tonight, England fans are sending positive vibes from Benidorm.READ MORE SUN STORIESBritish pubs are packed with revellers who fly the England flag high as they anxiously wait until 8pm.Let’s bring it home!The Sun’s Aliki Kraterou has been meeting fans in BenidormCredit: Louis WoodThe popular hotspot is gearing up for tonight’s clashCredit: Louis WoodThe beach in Benidorm is packed with holidaymakersCredit: Louis WoodPubs are packed with revellers who fly the England flag highCredit: Louis Wood More

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      Jack Wilshere: Stats show England have been long-ball team in Euro 2024… Pickford and Co MUST start playing from back

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      ENGLAND need to find the courage and confidence to start playing out from the back again.That was the approach that brought them success and they seemed to be getting better at it.SunSport’s Euro 2024 expert Jack WilshereCredit: Darren FletcherWilshere has urged Jordan Pickford to start playing out from the backCredit: AFPBut in the last two games they have tried it less and Jordan Pickford has been going long more often.Here’s a simple way of looking at it: Serbia and Denmark played with five at the back and five outfield players pressing — and Denmark did it really well.If we have three up front, we have a seven-to-five advantage — or eight-to-five if you include the keeper as part of the build-up.But to be successful in that phase, you have to have a structure.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLOnce you are in that structure, you can start to move, coming low, or pulling wide, to open up a passing lane.I have been in squads with Gareth Southgate and Steve Holland. I know they will have been working on patterns.Most of the players in the squad play that way with their clubs.They get on the ball and know where the next pass is going because they work on it until it becomes a habit.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSMaybe there’s too much freedom in the England structure. Maybe it’s players working their way into their positions. Probably a bit of both.John Stones and Kyle Walker play together for Manchester City but the picture ahead of them with England is very different.Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the EurosEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYStats show Pickford has played a lot of unsuccessful long ballsCredit: The SunMarc Guehi and Kieran Trippier are building a relationship but them both being right-footed changes the build-up phase, too.But mostly I think the lack of structure and playing out from the back was dictated by how the first two games went. The opponents grew in confidence and started to press a little bit higher.You are going to make mistakes and the pressure at international level, especially at tournaments, is greater.Maybe there’s too much freedom in the England structure. Maybe it’s players working their way into their positions. Probably a bit of both.Jack WilshereWith everything that has been happening around the team, they have ended up trying to eliminate risk by playing it longer.Quite often it’s come from our own open play.We’ve been looking for solutions and ended up going back to Jordan and there’s no option, we’re under a bit of pressure and he has to go long.People have highlighted moments against Denmark when that happened, even though players were offering the short pass.England have received a lot of criticism for their performances in the Euros so farCredit: GettyAnd Wilhere thinks Kobbie Mainoo should get a chanceCredit: GettyI’d say three things: Firstly, we know Jordan can play out for England because he has done it before.Secondly, Jordan is good at reading the game. Sometimes you do have to trust your goalie that it is the right moment for it, even if it can be frustrating as a midfielder to see the ball going over your head.Lastly, as a coach, there’s nothing wrong with playing the ball into your last line.I went to the Belgium-Romania game and Belgium were pressing in a man-for-man shape and being really aggressive, three v three on the last line. At the right time, it’s a good tactic.But more often than not, playing out through the thirds is the way to go. Then we can arrive in dangerous positions with stable possession.Talk of dropping Harry Kane is absurd, says Jurgen Klinsmann
      NO manager in the world will really care about how many touches their centre-forward has, writes Jurgen Klinsmann.
      It’s being widely flagged up that Harry Kane has not seen much of the ball in England’s first two matches but this is not, in itself, going to be a concern for Gareth Southgate.
      It’s a nice thing for the stats fanatics to go on about — and there are obviously more and more of them in and around football.
      But not all statistics are helpful and this one doesn’t mean a great deal.
      Harry has scored one goal, and so nearly two, in two games. It’s not as if he hasn’t been involved at all.
      Everybody in England needs to calm down a little about the captain.
      Some are even suggesting that he should be dropped or rested for tomorrow’s final group game against Slovenia — but that is totally absurd.
      Please stop worrying. He will come good. He always does.
      Read Jurgen Klinsmann thoughts on Harry Kane’s struggles in full.
      Or check out all of Jurgen’s Euro 2024 columns.

      Let’s do it, let’s go and be brave and dominate the ball. Then we can bring Kane into the game, find Phil Foden in the pocket, get Jude Bellingham running in behind.I reckon Kobbie Mainoo would be the best choice to play alongside Declan Rice.Mainoo has proved he can hold, he can play on the half-turn and he can get forward.He has also shown great personality. He was the shining light for Manchester United in a difficult season.At 19, Mainoo won’t be worrying, ‘This might be my last tournament, I don’t want to make a mistake’.I reckon Kobbie Mainoo would be the best choice to play alongside Declan Rice.Jack Wilshere But it can still be hard for players to find the confidence and courage to play the way they know they can.As Harry Kane said, some players aren’t used to this level of scrutiny and pressure.Social media makes it hard to get away from it, so there will be a little bit of performance anxiety around the camp.This is where the senior players come in and I’m sure they are doing their job. As far as the outside world is concerned, Kane and Walker had to be the guys to front up to the media.Inside the group, they have to make sure the players are calm.I played with Kyle and he’s great around camp, the younger, less experienced players should listen to him. Like Harry, he’s been there for good and bad moments at tournaments.Rice is also a leader but he is among the players who have only really seen the good side of it.The message from the manager and coaches will be to keep calm.This game, against what I think is a very beatable team in Slovenia, is a good chance to turn the corner.I genuinely believe that if we can get that momentum and confidence, we still have a chance of winning this tournament.One thing that will help is the return of left-back Luke Shaw, who is fit enough to train with the squad.It’s good news for Southgate, for the team and Foden in particular. And for Luke, of course.We’ve been mates since the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.READ MORE SUN STORIESWe don’t know if he’s fit to start yet but as soon as he is, I would play him.Luke will bring the best out of Foden. He provides natural width, he can go on the outside, get crosses in and create space and time for Foden.Who is Euro 2024’s sexiest star?
      EURO 2024 has something for everyone from stunning goals, thrilling matches… and the continent’s biggest hunks, writes Jack Figg.
      Several stars have lit up the group stages with their skills on the pitch – but others are also catching the eye for their looks.
      But who is the sexiest?
      Thankfully AI boffins have carried out an analysis on the facial attractiveness of all players at the tournament.
      And it’s bad news for Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions who are the fourth UGLIEST in the competition – one place below Scotland.
      In fact it’s England’s group rivals Serbia who have fans swooning the most – boasting an average score of 77.90/100 with defender Strahinja Pavlovic deemed their most attractive.
      While Turkey defender Mert Muldur has been ranked as the tournament’s BEST-LOOKING player.
      But who is England’s sexiest star, and who makes the Euros’ hunkiest XI? Read our full story. More

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      Euro 2024 Group B LIVE TABLE: Latest standings as Italy leave it late to join Spain in last-16 while Albania go OUT

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      ITALY have left it late to join Spain in the Euro 2024 last-16.Spain completed a flawless group campaign after beating Albania 1-0 in their final match.Spain won all three group gamesCredit: EPAWhile Zaccagni’s 98th minute strike fired the Italians through after Luka Modric had initially put the Croatians ahead.LIVE Group B table below (as of June 24)…What happens if teams are tied on points?If two or more teams are level on points at the end of the group stage, a head-to-head record is used as the first tie-breaker to determine their final rankings.This is followed by goal difference and goals scored in the matches between the teams in question, followed by most wins and then disciplinary records across the group as a whole.Should two teams be tied on points, goals scored and conceded at the end of the group stage – with no tiebreaker separating them from any other team – a penalty shootout will dictate their final placings.Group B fixtures and resultsJune 15
      Spain 3-0 Croatia
      Italy 2-1 Albania
      June 19Most read in Euro 2024
      Croatia 2-2 Albania
      June 20
      Spain 1-0 Italy
      June 24
      Croatia 1-1 Italy
      Albania 0-1 Spain
      Round of 16June 29
      1A vs 2C (Dortmund, 8pm)
      2A vs 2B (Berlin, 5pm)
      June 30
      1B vs 3A/D/E/F (Cologne (8pm)
      1C vs 3D/E/F (Gelsenkirchen, 5pm)
      July 1
      1F vs 3A/B/C (Frankfurt, 8pm)
      2D vs 2E (Düsseldorf, 5pm)
      July 2
      1E vs 3A/B/C/D (Munich, 5pm)
      1D vs 2F (Leipzig, 8pm)
      Quarter-finalsJuly 5
      W39 vs W37 (Stuttgart, 5pm)
      W41 vs W42 (Hamburg, 8pm)
      July 6
      W43 vs W44 (Berlin, 8pm)
      W40 vs W38 (Dusseldorf, 5pm)
      Semi-finalsJuly 9
      W45 vs W46 (Munich, 8pm)
      July 10
      W47 vs W48 (Dortmund, 8pm)
      READ MORE SUN STORIESFinalJuly 14W49 vs W50 (Berlin, 8pm) More

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      Albania 0-1 Spain LIVE RESULT – Torres’ tidy finish fires La Roja to a flawless Euro 2024 group campaign

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      SPAIN have won ALL three of their Euro 2024 group by beating Albania 1-0 tonight.La Furia Roja sealed qualification after beating reigning champions Italy 1-0 in their second group fixture.And Ferran Torres’ tidy finish fired La Roja to a flawless campaign who now await their opponents in the knockouts.
      RESULT: Albania 0-1 Spain
      Live stream: BBC iPlayer
      TV channel: BBC Two
      Albania XI: Strakhosa; Balliu, Djimisti, Ajeti, Mitaj; Laci, Ramadani, Asllani; Asani, Manaj, Bajrami
      Spain XI: Raya; Navas, Vivian, Laporte, Grimaldo; Zubimendi, Merino; Torres, Olmo, Oyarzabal; Joselu
      LIVE GROUP B TABLEEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from the Dusseldorf Arena with our live blog below…Streets ahead
      Match report from our man, Martin Lipton.
      Sadly for Sylvinho, he was right.
      The Albania boss had suggested Spain’s second team are good enough to win Euro 2024.
      But what will really worry the rest is that the first choice 11 is a street ahead of the reserves.
      And they are the ones who will play the rest of the tournament.
      In Dusseldorf, Luis de la Fuente’s shadow side clipped the Eagles’ wings to send Albanian home and make it three wins out of three.
      Read the full report HERE
      Spain have won three out of three at Euro 2024Credit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedThe greatest
      Spain match-winner Ferran Torres, who has now scored 20 in 44 appearances, said: “We wanted to make it nine points out of nine to send out a message and that’s what we did.
      “I have always said I want to be among the greatest scorers in Spain history and I’m not going to stop until I have achieved it.
      “I talked to Olmo about giving me those balls into space and when I saw that he gave it to me I didn’t hesitate.”
      Almost a goal a game for Ferran TorresCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedWho else is through?
      England, France and the Netherlands have all gone through to the last 16 tonight without playing tonight.
      They join Germany, Switzerland, Spain and Italy, who have already progressed.
      In terms of the best third-placed side, they will have to clinch three points and a goal difference better than -3 to head to the knockout phase.
      Credit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedWhere do we stand?
      We have our first confirmed last 16 match. And it’s… Switzerland vs Italy!
      That contest will take place on Saturday June 29 at 5pm in Berlin.
      Big interest in that one given the winner would play the winner of England’s group and a third-placed team in the quarter-finals.
      Copy linkCopiedCredit due
      Euro 2016 winner with Portugal Jose Fonte thinks Albania deserve a good amount of credit for their performances in this tournament.
      He said: “Albania gave it a really good go, they were positive and tried to make something happen for them which is something we have to give them credit for.”
      Copy linkCopiedGroup B
      This is how Group B has finished tonight.
      Italy are into the last 16 as runners-up, and Croatia are very likely to go out after Mattia Zaccagni’s 98th-minute equaliser. I should say that’s it’s still possible for Croatia to advance depending on other results – but extremely, extremely unlikely having failed to win any of their three games and a -3 goal difference.
      Spain top the group and Albania are definitely out of the competition.
      Credit: UEFA
      Copy linkCopiedDominant Spain
      Spain win then. Three from three. Five goals scored, none conceded and every single outfield player has featured already. They’ll be many people’s favourites now, surely?
      I suppose the only thing you could criticise is the lack of ruthlessness in the last two games?
      Copy linkCopiedWould you believe it?!
      Oh my… Italy have just scored with virtually the last kick of the game against Croatia. It’s now 1-1 with seconds left on the clock.
      The Croatian substitutes were all on their feet ready to run onto the pitch but Mattia Zaccagni has just scored for Italy in the 98th minute!
      Scenes. Absolute scenes.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      FT: And that’s that. Spain, who were already winners of Group B, finish with a flourish and win all three of their group matches.
      The last time they did that, they won the whole darn thing.
      As for Albania, they’ve contributed a lot to the enjoyment of this competition and their fastest ever goal at the Euros will live long in the memory.
      Spain through, Albania out.
      Sylvinho’s side are out of Euro 2024Credit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      92: And that’s likely to be Albania’s last shot on target at the 2024 Euros. Armando Broja prods a loose ball towards goal and David Raya flies to catch it.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      90: Four minutes of added time.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      88: Some anxious Albanians in the crowd. Not entirely sure why. They are heading out and it’s not really looking like that’ll change in these final stages. They win a free-kick near the left touchline and load the box with only four players?! Don’t understand it myself. The ball goes out of play.
      Berisha is booked for a high arm. Play is also suspended while a fan runs onto the pitch to try and grab a selfie with someone. Jermaine Jenas on commentary suggests getting the stewards some studs…
      Cheers JJ.
      Credit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      85: Alex Baena replaces Dani Olmo. Most assists in LaLiga last season with 14 for Baena. You’ve been warned.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      83: Oh behave, Lamine Yamal. The 16-year-old brings the ball down from the sky and skips past two Albanian defenders in the same motion. Shame about the next bit but you’ll be seeing that in YouTube highlights packages for years to come.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      80: Kristjan Asllani sees another half-chance blocked from the edge of the penalty area. That’s his fifth shot of the night! Morata then heads a Spain corner over.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      78: It’s got a bit of Hungary vs Scotland about it now, albeit Spain have far more control. Albania are finally committing more bodies forward with Kristjan Asllani firing just wide of the target. Does feel like we’ll see at least one more goal here.
      Lamine Yamal of SpainCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      75: Just 15 minutes of normal time remaining. Still no sign of a miracle.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      73: Where’s this Albania been all night? Kristjan Asllani drills a speculative one from distance that David Raya simply falls on.
      Manager Luis de la Fuente looks to remedy the situation by throwing on Lamine Yamal and Alvaro Morata. Not a bad bench to turn to, eh?
      Laci and Bajrami are off for Hoxha and Muci for Albania.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      70: Oh this doesn’t look good. Substitute Armando Broja takes a bang on the knee from fellow substitute Robin Le Normand and hits the deck. Fortunately the Chelsea striker is up and about a little while after.
      Credit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      68: And now a corner for Albania. There’s way too much on it and it bounces near the opposite corner flag. Signs of life here folks. Signs of life.
      Too many signs of life from Nedim Bajrami, who tries to buy a free-kick near the penalty area. He’s booked.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      65: I suppose it’s all well and good your fans urging you to go forward, but this is just so difficult for these Albanian players. It’s hard enough for them to wrestle the ball back let alone go on and score twice.
      Armando Broja shuts me up immediately with a fierce strike from distance that David Raya palms away. Albania have to build on that.
      Credit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      63: Chelsea’s Armando Broja replaces Rey Manaj. Sylvinho had to do something because Spain are knocking it around for fun. Fermin Lopez comes on for Mikel Oyarzabal, who was my disastrous tip for Spain top scorer at 12/1. Never again.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      60: The Albania supporters have caught wind of that Croatia goal. They cheer and celebrate because if they win, Italy will be dumped out of the competition.
      So as things stand Croatia are through in second place behind Spain and Italy have to hope three points is enough to take them through as one of the best third-placed teams.
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      57: Folks, I have news from the Croatia vs Italy game.
      Croatia have themselves a penalty after the ball struck Davide Frattesi’s arm. After all the usual VAR stuff, Luka Modric sees his penalty saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma.
      But hold on… seconds later Modric makes amends when thumping home from close distance. That certainly puts the cats amongst the pigeons.
      Modric boshCredit: GETTY
      Copy linkCopiedALBANIA 0-1 SPAIN
      54: Oh we’ve got a booking. And it’s for… Albania manager Sylvinho. The Brazilian tactician barely takes notice and continues his anger towards the fourth official. Not entirely sure what he’s mad about in all honesty.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      ‘World’s hardest geezer’ tells England heroes they can win Euros in rallying cry as he runs to every Three Lions game

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      ENGLAND’S self-styled Hardest Geezer issued a rallying cry to the Three Lions stars while he jogged to tonight’s match: “Keep going boys and you’ll reach the finish line.”Russ Cook, 27, made history by completing the equivalent of 377 marathons in Africa as he ran 9,891 miles from Cape Town to Tunisia over 352 days.England’s self-proclaimed Hardest Geezer rallied the Three Lions stars while running to today’s match, saying: ‘Keep going, boys, and you’ll reach the finish line’Credit: Paul Edwards’Hardest Geezer’ Russ Cook is now running to every England game in Germany after setting off from Wembley Stadium a fortnight agoCredit: Paul EdwardsRuss previously set himself the ultimate test — running the length of Africa, aboveCredit: GiveStarHe is now running to every England game in Germany after setting off from Wembley Stadium a fortnight ago.As he headed to Cologne for tonight’s final group game against Slovenia, the long-distance specialist took a brief rest to give skipper Harry Kane and co a lift after their painful draw against Denmark.Russ, who was joined by Sun mascot Harry Mane when he set off, said: “Tournament football is tough.“It’s a long hard slog, just like an ultra marathon, and you’ve got to stay focused. The team have got to keep putting one foot in front of the other and just keep going.READ MORE ON ENGLAND EURO 2024“They can make it. We’ve got the stamina and dedication — we can win the Euros. Come on England!”Former boozer and gambler Russ, who once dubbed himself the hardest geezer in his home town of Worthing, Sussex, turned his life around at 19 after a pal challenged him to run ­the Brighton Half Marathon.He said: “I was in a bad place, I was unfit and drinking and blowing money in the bookies, so I agreed.“Through training, I learnt the values of running and discipline and self-belief, which empowered me, and I applied it to other things in life.”Most read in Euro 2024After completing a series of endurance challenges, he set himself the ultimate test — running the length of Africa. He completed it in April, taking 19million steps in 20 pairs of trainers to cross 16 countries.He battled injuries, food poisoning, extreme heat, a kidnapping and robbery to become the first to do it.Chesney Hawkes trains on the beach with Harry Mane before England’s crunch World Cup clash with FranceHis magnificent efforts raised ­£1million for charities which help the homeless and refugees.The huge red beard and ponytail he grew during the trek earned him the nickname “Africa’s Forrest Gump”, in a nod to the Tom Hanks movie.Brighton fan Russ was looking forward to watching the Euros on TV until he was offered the chance of going to games — by running to them.Russ, sponsored on the run by Sports Direct, said: “I ran from ­Wembley Stadium to Harwich, got the ferry over to the Netherlands, then ran from the Hook of Holland to ­Gelsenkirchen for the first game.“Then I went from there to Frankfurt and now to Cologne.”England are top of their group with four points and are almost guaranteed a place in the knockout stage.But it feels as if the team has hit the wall early. Critics such as Gary Lineker blasted their display in the 1-1 draw against Denmark and a row blew up between players and ex-internationals working as TV pundits.But Russ is confident England can keep going and cross the finishing line first. He said: “I’m fine with how things have gone. We’ve got four points from two games, we’re top of the group.”READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd he is hoping he is still running when the final takes place in Berlin on July 14.ENGLAND fans arriving in Cologne were relieved last night after brewery bosses rushed in extra beer supplies. A crisis was feared after Scotland fans drank bars dry. Back home, up to 25 million pints will be downed today in pubs and homes.MEDIUM IN PLEA TO TAKE RISKSTHE Sun’s medium Chloe Smith yesterday urged England boss Gareth Southgate to “take risks and don’t overthink”.
      She pulled a “fool” tarot card ahead of tonight’s clash with Slovenia.
      But she said the “strong card of energy is actually a good omen — as long as the fans keep the faith in the team”.
      Chloe, 26, of Uttoxeter, Staffs, said: “Stay open and embrace the unknown. Football is bringing the nation together, it’s time to take this new path of love, take risks and don’t overthink. What will be will be.”
      Meanwhile, The Sun’s druid, King Arthur Pendragon, backed England to win 1-0 tonight.
      And he cast a spell from Stonehenge “using our nation’s natural energy to fire up the lads to beat Slovenia and top the group”. More

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      Croatia 1 Italy 1: Zaccagni scores dramatic 98th-minute equaliser to secure last 16 spot and break Modric & Co’s hearts

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      ITALY crushed Croatian hearts with a dramatic late leveller in Leipzig to regain a Euros last 16 spot.The Azzurri looked to have surrendered second place in Group B after Croat pensioner Luka Modric scored in the 55th minute – seconds after missing a penalty.Mattia Zaccagni celebrates his winnerCredit: ReutersItaly looked to be down and outCredit: EPAThe goal that won it for Italy was a beautyCredit: ReutersBut in the dying moments, Mattia Zaccagni curled in a 98th-minute beauty to ensure the reigning European champions will play Switzerland in the knockout stage.As for Croatia, unbelievable heartbreak. They are not mathematically out, but it is incredibly unlikely that they will make it through as a ranked third-place side on two points.What a way for Modric to potentially end his international career on his 178th appearance having become the oldest scorer at a Euros at 38 years and 289 days.But Croatia can hardly complain. The World Cup finalists from 2018 had been woeful in their opening two outings – smashed by Spain before conceding a late leveller to Albania – and not a lot better here, much to boss Zlatko Dalic’s dismay.READ MORE EUROS NEWSThe ultimate major tournament warriors came agonisingly close to proving everyone wrong yet again only to fall at the final hurdle having given their all to hang on.Luka Modric celebrates his strikeCredit: ReutersCroatia went wild after taking the leadCredit: ReutersModric fires past Gianluigi DonnarummaCredit: APDalic made four changes, including two of his back four – unsurprising given his men had already shipped five goals in two games in Germany.Luciano Spalletti also pulled out a few surprises with his team selection, switching to a three at the back, as well as dropping forwards Federico Chiesa and Gianluca Scamacca.The former Napoli boss was clearly still irked by his side’s 1-0 loss to Spain last week, intent on giving his squad a chance to right some wrongs.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSIt looked like that decision could backfire in the opening 15 minutes.Italy barely got a sniff such was Croatia’s dominance and control on the ball from back to front.And yet, other than a 25-yard belter from Luka Sucic that was tipped over by Gianluigi Donnarumma, they still lacked a real goal threat.As a result, the Azzurri gained confidence, carving out some chances of their own as Mateo Retegui headed just wide and had a volley blocked.Nicolo Barella’s beautiful dink towards the back post then found an unmarked Alessandro Bastoni in the 27th minute.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYLuka Modric saw his penalty saved by Gianluigi DonnarummaCredit: GettyIt could be Modric’s last game for CroatiaCredit: ReutersThe header from the Inter Milan defender was straight at Dominik Livakovic, producing a stunning reaction stop that left several Italian players on their knees.Croatia rallied through who else than Modric, finding space in the box and forcing Donnarumma to palm away a dangerous low cross.The little Croat magician was trying his best to conjure something up for his beloved nation on his 178th appearance, but those around him lacked any sort of spark or belief.Heading into the break, Italy looked comfortable. Croatia looked resigned to their fate.What they needed was a helping hand, and that’s literally what they got in the 52nd minute as Davide Frattesi – who was subbed on at half-time – appeared to block a cross with an outstretched arm.Luka Modric rolled back the years against Italy but it was not enoughPlay continued before VAR advised Dutch referee Danny Makkelie to go to the monitor. He was not there long before pointing to the spot.There was no question who was going to take it, that was until he missed – Modric’s tame spot-kick easily saved by Donnarumma down to his right.But the Italian No1 barely had time to catch his breath before watching Modric fire into the top corner in the 55th minute, having just got down to deny Ante Budimir from a cross.READ MORE SUN STORIESCroatia looked to have withstood all the might of Italy, only to fall asleep during a late counter attack in injury time and Livakovic had no chance to stop his net from rippling. More

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      England THROUGH to Euro 2024 knockouts without playing their final group game despite underwhelming tournament

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      ENGLAND are already through to the knockout stages of Euro 2024 – thanks to tonight’s results in Group B.The Three Lions take on Slovenia in their final Group C match in Cologne tomorrow evening. England booked their place in the last 16 with a game to spareCredit: APGareth Southgate will want an improved performance and win against SloveniaCredit: GettyThey need a win to guarantee top spot – and therefore an ‘easier’ last-16 tie.However, their place in the next round has been confirmed by Albania’s loss to Spain.England go into the Slovenia game already on four points from beating Serbia and a draw with Denmark. Gareth Southgate’s men cannot finish bottom of the group – even a defeat can only see them drop to third because Denmark and Serbia cannot both win and overtake England’s points tally.READ MORE ON EURO 2024And with the four best third-placed teams in the six Euro 2024 groups going through, those four points are already enough to get through.In Group A, Germany and Switzerland are through with Hungary taking third on three points.And in Group B tonight, Spain beat Albania 1-0, while Italy scored a dramatic 98th-minute goal to draw 1-1 with Croatia. Spain were already group winners by virtue of beating Italy, but they finished the group with maximum points.Most read in Euro 2024And the late drama meant Italy went through in second with four points, while Croatia are all but out in third place with just two points.That result was irrelevant for England, with the Three Lions just needing Albania not to win. That’s because it wasn’t possible for Italy and Croatia to both reach four points as they were playing each other. And therefore England will be at worst the fourth-best third-placed team at Euro 2024 and safely into the last 16.EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSSunSport’s Dan King on why Luke Shaw’s return is so big for EnglandEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYOf course, Southgate is desperate to finish top of Group C with seven points from a possible nine by beating Slovenia. His tactics, the team selection and the players have been widely criticised for their performances so far.But Harry Kane and Declan Rice bit back in a defiant response, with the skipper reminding the likes of Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer that they did not win a major tournament for their country.England have turned into a long-ball team, that has to change, says Jack Wilshere
      ENGLAND need to find the courage and confidence to start playing out from the back again, writes Jack Wilshere.
      That was the approach that brought them success and they seemed to be getting better at it.
      But in the last two games they have tried it less and Jordan Pickford has been going long more often.
      England’s lack of structure and playing out from the back was dictated by how the first two games went.
      The opponents grew in confidence and started to press a little bit higher.
      And, as England have made mistakes, they have ended up trying to eliminate risk by playing it longer.
      We’ve been looking for solutions and ended up going back to Jordan and there’s no option, we’re under a bit of pressure and he has to go long.
      But, more often than not, playing out through the thirds is the way to go.
      Let’s do it, let’s go and be brave and dominate the ball.
      Read Jack Wilshere’s tactical analysis in full.
      Or check out all of Jack’s Euro 2024 columns.

      Trent Alexander-Arnold’s experiment in midfield is set to be cut short – with Conor Gallagher coming in to take his place in the starting XI. And fans hope the dreaded ‘ITV curse’ doesn’t strike again.England have won seven, drawn 13 and lost ten of their 30 major tournament matches on the channel since 1998 – but have won 20 out of 29 on the BBC in that time. Pundits and legends lay into EnglandENGLAND’s lifeless display in the 1-1 draw with Denmark left pundits and legends queuing up to take a dig at Gareth Southgate’s team.
      Here’s the best of what was said…
      ALAN SHEARER
      “Awful performance, particularly after going up in the game.
      “I don’t think one England player can look at themselves and say, ‘I’ve done my job tonight’.
      “England were all over the place, far too sloppy in possession, gave the ball away too much and got caught too many times.
      “There was no energy, no pace, no guile — Southgate is simply not getting the best out of England’s best players.
      “It’s concerning and Gareth will get some serious questions.
      “You saw England players lying on their backs — they look absolutely shattered but there’s no excuse for that.”
      GARY LINEKER
      The BBC host called the performance “lifeless and tepid”.
      On Harry Kane he said: “He needs his manager to ask more of him. I would have expected that if I’d put in that kind of performance.”
      RIO FERDINAND
      “The players don’t look the same as they do for their clubs. It is a big concern.”
      ROY KEANE
      “Courage and bravery, we’re not really seeing it.
      “There’s something amiss with the balance. Bellingham is waving his arms.
      “This is a big test for Gareth. It looks like he’s overthinking things.”
      JAMIE CARRAGHER
      “My big worry watching this and for the rest of the tournament?
      “England look absolutely knackered. They can’t get close to the ball.
      “The surest sign of fatigue is dropping deep.
      “Declan Rice is having to cover so much ground. No-one can convince me this is a strategy.”
      JACK WILSHERE
      “It’s strange that we have taken the lead in both games so far, yet instead of it settling us down and giving us the confidence to play, we have failed to take control.
      “But what was most worrying was that Denmark had a clear way of playing — while we didn’t.”

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