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      Albania 0 Spain 1: Ferran Torres scores early winner as second-string Spaniards cruise into last 16 with maximum points

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      SADLY for Sylvinho, he was right.The Albania boss had suggested Spain’s second team are good enough to win Euro 2024.Ferran Torres scored a first half winnerCredit: GettyAlbania crash out of the Euros after failing to pick up a winCredit: APSpain have won three games out of three without concedingCredit: AFPBut 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.A brilliant finish by former Manchester City striker Ferran Torres, caressing the ball off the upright with his left peg, proved decisive as Albania’s adventure ended amid the non-stop bedlam of their hordes of fans.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Yet Spain now enter the knock-out stage on cruise control, rested and ready.It is hard to make a case for anyone to stop them.Last night Albania had the flares. And the noise and the smoke.But Spain had the flair and were never going to choke.Most read in Euro 2024Spain dominated the ball and Albania struggled to create chancesEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYFor 10 minutes, Spain let Sylvinho’s men believe. Then they simply upped the gears.Brentford keeper Thomas Strakosha – two Prem appearances for the Bees last term – made a scrambling save to deny Mikel Merino’s header from Spain’s first proper move, sparked by Dani Olmo.Euro 2024’s sexiest players revealedAlbania boss Sylvinho claimed Spain’s second team is good enough to win the EurosCredit: ReutersThere was nothing he could do about their second, though.Aymeric Laporte, the only surviving starter from the Italy win, threaded in to playmaker Olmo, whose own pass inside left back Mario Mitaj was as perfect as the first-time, inside of the boot stroke in off the far post by Torres.A goal of beauty, from a beautiful team.Between those two attacks, Joselu – tipped to be the next on the Saudi gravy train – had flicked a header just too high.Spain’s control was evident. They were happy with all they needed to make it comfortable, the Albanians offering heart and endeavour but nowhere near the same quality.The reality of the action did not dampen the enthusiasm of the Albanian fans who were hanging off the rafters. They had plenty to shout about, at least in their heads.Yet it all felt inevitable, a matter of time before Spain raised the level once more to get the second.Twice in a minute, Olmo thought he was going to score it.First it required a super block from Albania skipper Berat Djimsiti to stop him from close range, before he clipped wide when Strakosha punched the resulting corner straight to the Leipzig man.Arsenal keeper David Raya was enjoying the easiest of nights, although almost embarrassed himself when he thumped a clearance into Laporte, grateful the ball ballooned back into his hands.Albania pressured late on but it was not enoughTorress may have done enough to win a first-team placeAnd he was extended on the break, diving to his left to parry Kristjian Asllani’s 20-yarder.Even so, Spain did not seem concerned and Joselu was inches away from netting at the start of the second period with an acrobatic hook from the latest in a string of crosses by left-back Alejandro Grimaldo.Albania were starting to rock, but responded to the news of Luka Modric’s goal in Leipzig.On came Chelsea’s Slough-born and raised Armando Broja, so nearly transforming the mood with his first proper touch from a quick free-kick, only for Reya to claw the ball away.They kept on trying, too, even as the sands of time slipped away, finally causing some anxiety.READ MORE SUN STORIESNot enough and Olmo and substitute Alvaro Morata had the chances to put the game to bed while there were some glimpses of majesty from Lermine Yamal after the teenager was introduced.We will certainly see more of him in the next few weeks. And a lot more of Spain. More

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      Croatia 1-1 Italy LIVE RESULT: Zaccagni’s 98th minute strike fires reigning champs into Euro 2024 last-16

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      ITALY are through to the Euro 2024 last-16 but they left it really late!Luka Modric’s second-half strike seemed to be enough for the Croatians to join Group B winners Spain in the knockouts.However, Mattia Zaccagni’s 98th-minute equaliser snatched second place off the Croatia.
      RESULT: Croatia 1-1 Italy
      Live stream: BBC iPlayer
      TV channel: BBC One
      Croatia XI: Livakovic, Juranovic, Sutalo, Pongracic, Gvardiol, Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic, Susic, Kramaric, Pasalic
      Italy XI: Donnarumma, Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori, Darmain, Dimarco, Jorginho, Barella, Pellegrini, Raspadori, Retegui
      LIVE GROUP B TABLEEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from the Red Bull Arena with our live blog below…Luka awarded player of the match
      There is never a sight more downbeat than a player on the losing team being awarded the man of the match award.
      Luke Modric looked as though he wanted to be anywhere but on that pitch as Croatia try to deal with Euro 2024 heartache.
      While there is still a very slim chance they could progress as one of third placed teams, with a measly two points, it seems unlikely.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedItaly secure place in knockout phase
      The Azzurri will now face Switzerland in the ’round of 16′.
      During the group stages they won one game, lost another and today’s draw in the final match seals their progress.
      Luciano Spalletti knows they will have to raise their game to go further in the tournament but for today it is mission accomplished with Spain having already qualified from Group B.
      Copy linkCopiedAzzurri grab point from jaws of defeat
      What a difference a minute can make in football.
      It seemed as though Italy were going to be left with egg on their face as Croatia headed towards victory.
      They capitalised on some poor defending from their opponents and took their chance with almost the last kick of the game.
      As the final whistle blew, you could see just how much this meant to those players and their manager.
      Credit: AP
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedLegends are hard to find and replace
      He gave it his all in this game and was integral in Croatia getting the goal that seemed to be sending them towards victory.
      Modric became the oldest player to score in the Euro finals this evening but you can see the dejection on his face at the final whistle.
      Croatia just could not see the game out and now look unlikely to progress to the next phase.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Croatia 1-1 Italy
      Croatia had a big chance there to book their place in the next round.
      They paid the price for gifting away possession so late in the game.
      It was a sublime goal by Zaccagni and ensures the holders are through to the next round.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Croatia 1-1 Italy
      Once again Croatia are robbed by a late goal.
      The players look dejected out there, knowing that this probably signals their departure from the tournament.
      Spalletti was running down the touchline as that goal nestled in the back of the net.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-1 Italy
      90+8. Just as Croatia had an opportunity to keep the ball in the corner of the Italian half, they give the ball away.
      Italy come forward and the ball is played into the path of Zaccagni who bends it into the far corner.
      If it stays like this, Italy will take second place in the group.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Mattia Zaccagni (Italy)
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      90+6. Croatia are showing their experience now.
      They are playing the ball into channels of space, knowing they are running the clock down further.
      In the other game in this group, it has ended in victory for the Spanish.
      Credit: AFP
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      90+4. Croatia are passing the ball around trying to retain possession.
      As the clock ticks down they know this will just frustrate their opponents more.
      Calafiori was shown a yellow card for a challenge and will miss the next game.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      90+2. Scamacca has a shot from distance but it deflects wide for an Italian corner.
      As the cross comes in, it is well dealt with by the Croatian defence.
      More importantly, they are able to hold onto the ball and draw a foul to run the clock down further.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      90. There are some tired Croatian legs out there now.
      Kramaric is coming off for Juranovic.
      We are going to have eight added minutes in Leipzig.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      88. Italy so close to an equaliser.
      A teasing ball across the six yard box but Scamacca just could not get the required touch to it.
      Croatia breath a sigh of relief.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      86. The Italians certainly know how to milk a foul.
      While in many cases you cannot deny contact, it certainly isn’t enough for them to be rolling around like they have stepped in a bear trap.
      Time is starting to run out for Luciano Spalletti’s side.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      84. Should the unthinkable happen and Albania get two late goals, Italy would be heading out of Euro 2024.
      Croatia are starting to put some pressure on The Azzurri again.
      A second goal for the Croats would surely seal victory.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      82. Fagioli is coming on for Jorginho.
      Both managers are looking to get some fresh legs on the pitch for the final push of this game.
      Stanisic is shown a yellow card for a foul although it seemed the Italian made a meal of it.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      80. Brozovic plays a sublime ball into the box.
      Bastoni does brilliantly to get there first and head out for a throw in.
      If he had not, it seemed a Croatian goal was certain.
      Modric is coming off for Majer.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      78. Pongracic is shown a yellow card for a foul.
      Croatia need to be wary now not to lunge in with the challenges as the last thing they want to do is go down to ten men.
      This game is still finely poised with time starting to run out for Italy.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      76. Italy are looking the more confident in possession.
      They seem more able to guard the ball and make Croatia chase the game.
      As a ball is threaded in between the lines, the assistant raises his flag for offside.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      74. Croatia are having to withstand a lot of pressure now.
      They need to try and control the ball for a spell to give their defence a breather.
      It almost seems that the Croatians are looking to hold onto what they have now.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      72. Italy have a free kick in a dangerous position outside the box.
      The Azzurri have plenty of options for who is going to take this.
      Raspadori strikes it but it deflects off the wall and over the crossbar.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      70. As balls are played into the box, Croatia are starting to snatch at their clearances with no intention of retaining the ball.
      Susic is coming off for Perisic now.
      Zlatko Dalic is looking to get all his experience out on the pitch.
      That said, he is also bringing off Kovacic for Ivanusec.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      68. Italy are starting to ask questions of the Croatian defence.
      Croatia just cannot get out of their own half currently.
      The Azzurri seem to have taken it up a gear now.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      66. Italy try to thread passes through the Croatian defence.
      The ricochet favours the Croats as it runs harmlessly through to the keeper.
      That goal was just what this game needed.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-0 Italy
      64. The pressure is really on Italy now.
      Although they may still qualify, they would have a much tougher game in the knockout phase.
      Croatia will just look to pick them off on the break now as they throw more players forward.
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      Gary Lineker pokes fun at Harry Kane ‘s***’ row with cheeky quip live on BBC during Euro 2024 coverage

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      GARY LINEKER made a cheeky joke about the furore surrounding his England criticism.The BBC pundit called the Three Lions’ performance against Denmark “s**t” which saw Harry Kane bite back in a press conference.Gary Lineker laughs at his own jokeCredit: BBCHarry Kane took issue with some pundits’ commentsCredit: Paul EdwardsAnd Lineker referenced the headline-grabbing exchange at half-time in Italy’s clash with Croatia, which ended in a dramatic draw.During a segment previewing England’s final Euro 2024 group game against Slovenia tomorrow, Lineker said “If Albania fail to win tonight, England are officially through to the last 16.”Because even if they lose tomorrow they will go through as one of the best third-placed teams.”I wish people would stop being so critical of them.”READ MORE EUROS NEWSEarlier, Three Lions chief Gareth Southgate insisted he had not paid any attention to Lineker’s comments.”I haven’t heard what he said. I have heard one word.”That is the world we are in. I am oblivious to it, it is not important to me at all. “What is important to me is I have to guide this set of players confidently through the terrain that is the tournament.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY”We are a high profile team and we have expectations and we fully understand everything we do will be scrutinised. “I am very comfortable living that life. I don’t need to engage in the external because I am my own biggest critic and I think our players are as well.Harry Kane bites back at Lineker and Co over ‘s***’ Denmark jibes and reminds ex-England stars they never won anything’We’re struggling with and without the ball’, admits Harry Kane

      HARRY KANE admits England “haven’t been good enough” at the Euros.
      Here’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.”

      “There is nothing to be gained from us listening to external criticism. We know what we have done well and are very honest about that. “We know where we need to improve and we are brutally honest about that.”That is how you coach a team and improve performance.”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.” More

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      Heartwarming moment Italy manager Spalletti consoles Sky Sports journalist after death of his wife

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      ITALY boss Luciano Spalletti consoled a journalist after the death of his wife shortly before the game against Croatia.The defending champions went into their final group game of Euro 2024 needing a draw to guarantee their spot in the last-16.Italy boss Luciano Spalletti comforted a journalist after the loss of his wifeThe pair embraced ahead of Italy’s Euros clash with CroatiaHowever Spalletti’s immediate thoughts were not on his team or his tactics, but instead on Sky Sports Italia journalist Marco Nosotti.That is because the reporter lost his wife of over 30 years, Silvia, just a few days ago.Nosotti has only recently returned to Germany, and Spalletti sought him out as his team took a pre-match walk around the pitch at Leipzig.The former Napoli boss went up to Nosotti and embraced him warmly as Nosotti buried his face in his shoulder.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Spalletti appeared to say a few words in his ear as he patted the reporter on his back.The veteran boss revealed he would try a different approach against Croatia after the 1-0 loss to Spain.He said: “After a game like that, there is the notion and the idea to try and change the team a little bit.“Now that we’ve noticed there’s a bit of fatigue and rust, we certainly will change things.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY“We’ll change our approach in some ways. We’ll try and have as much substance out there as possible. We’ll try and play uglier but have greater substance so they can’t tap into their ability.“But we want to play in their half of the pitch and not sit on the edge of our penalty area. They’ve got players that can shoot from distance and play between the lines.”Napoli ultras reward departing boss Spalletti for title by giving back his STEERING WHEEL two years after stealing it More

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      Paul Scholes names England team to face Slovenia with another new position for Trent and competitive debut for starlet

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      PAUL SCHOLES wants to see Gareth Southgate make two big changes in England’s final group stage match against Slovenia.The Three Lions are top of the group having beaten Serbia despite then drawing against Denmark. Paul Scholes revealed his preferred England side to play SloveniaCredit: AlamyTrent Alexander-Arnold is set to be dropped by England but Scholes would like to see him in another new positionCredit: GettyTrent Alexander-Arnold started in a midfield pair with Declan Rice in both games but came under fire for his performances. Conor Gallagher is set to now replace the Liverpool full-back – but Manchester United legend Scholes wants to see him stay in the team, albeit in another unfamiliar position for the right-back.The ex-England international called for Alexander-Arnold to instead replace Kieran Trippier on the left of a back four.Kyle Walker has started on the right with Trippier forced onto his unfavoured left in the absence of Luke Shaw.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLBut with Trippier injured, and Shaw still not fit, Southgate needs to find a solution.Another big change Scholes wants to see is United starlet Kobbie Mainoo partnering Rice in midfield. Mainoo has made four international appearances – but not yet in a major tournament. Gallagher is due to come into the starting line up but Scholes – who won 66 England caps – tips Mainoo as the man for the future. Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSHe told TNT Sports: “Obviously, I said I’d like to see Mainoo come into the midfield. “I think he is, along with Declan Rice, probably England’s best midfielder. Tom Barclay reacts to expectation Conor Gallagher comes in v SloveniaTalk 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.

      “To have a right back playing in there in your position and you’ve gone as a central midfielder, that won’t be nice. It will be difficult to take. “I see Kobbie Mainoo in this England squad, in this England team for the next 10 years at least.“He’ll bring quality into that midfield area that we’ve really lacked. He knows the position, he’s played the position. He’ll help Declan Rice. “He’ll help Jude Bellingham and he could possibly knit the whole thing together.” More

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      Euro 2024 fix fears as fans spot a draw will send both teams through and even former star claims result is ‘arranged’

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      FANS are preparing for a Euro 2024 ‘fix’ storm with a draw suiting both Romania and Slovakia ahead of Wednesday’s clash.All four teams in Group E, which also includes Belgium and Ukraine, are on three points going into the final games.Romania are closing in on a spot in the last 16Credit: RexSlovakia also have a great chance to make it throughCredit: APEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYFour of the six third-placed teams in the tournament going through to the last-16.With Hungary and Croatia already finishing third with three and two points respectively, it is now GUARANTEED four points will be enough for both Romania and Slovakia.And former Romania star Danut Lupu, 57, claims that a convenient draw has been “arranged” between the two sides.Per AS.Ro, Lupu, who played 14 times for Romania between 1989 and 1998, said: “We will qualify, draw with Slovakia.READ MORE IN FOOTBALL”It’s arranged, it would be a shame if we both didn’t go. Why risk it? Would be a shame! “At that level the players get along very well! Why risk it? Why get in an accident?”There has been no indication that Lupu’s comments are supported by either country.And Romania forward Valentin Mihaila has insisted his side will be playing to win… until the final few minutes at least.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSHe told reporters: “You can’t go into a match mentally as a player, as a team, with the thought of drawing.”If it is 0-0 in the 91st minute and the tied score qualifies us both, yes … but I don’t want to do calculations.Euro 2024’s sexiest players revealed”We have to go in with the mindset of winning the game and I think we can do that.”Romania’s 3-0 win over Ukraine, leaving the Ukranians the only team in Group E with a negative goal difference, means NEITHER them or Slovakia could finish bottom of the group with a draw.In that scenario, Ukraine or Belgium would finish top with a win… or be eliminated with a defeat.While a draw would be curtains for Ukraine.Romania Euro 2024 guideFORMER World Cup quarter-finalists Romania are back after eight years without qualifying for a tournament.
      They aren’t pretty to watch but they are effective and topped their qualifying group unbeaten ahead of Switzerland.
      MANAGER: Edward Iordanescu
      His father Anghel managed them at the 1994 World Cup where they reached the last eight. Tough act to follow.
      STAR MAN: Radu Dragusin
      Has struggled to win a first team place at Spurs but has been a stalwart at international level.
      How Romania attack
      Romania will play out from the back and play one or two-touch passes to break between the lines.
      However, they can run out of ideas when faced with a low block.
      How Romania defend
      Romania do not tend to press high as a unit and their players can be dragged out of position up the pitch.
      However, they are far more effective close to their own goal with the midfield dropping deep to support the back four.
      Read the full Romania Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups and latest odds

      Obviously a win for either Romania or Slovakia in the Frankfurt clash would improve their group table, and theoretically an easier knockout tie.But fans are convinced the pair will play out a draw.One fan posted on X: “Is the Romania v Slovakia draw odds on yet? “Surely the lads play out an entertaining 2-2 which looks like a lovely coincidence where they both qualify.”Another added: “If ever there was an argument to not have 3rd place teams qualifying, it’s group E in this tournament. READ MORE SUN STORIES”You’re in a scenario now where Romania play Slovakia on the final game. “If they draw, they’ll both qualify no matter what the other result is. Absolutely ripe for a draw.”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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      ‘How poetic’ – Scotland fans brutally trolled over anti-England chant after Steve Clarke’s bizarre Argentine ref rant

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      ODE dear! England fans reckon their Scottish counterparts suffered “poetic” justice with a controversial Euro 2024 exit.Steve Clarke blasted the use of an Argentinian referee after the Tartan Army were denied a “100 per cent” penalty in Hungary’s 1-0 win.Scotland fans sung and danced to taunt England over Diego Maradona’s notorious role in the Three Lions’ 1986 World Cup quarter-finals exitSteve Clarke is sure Scotland were wrongly denied a penaltyBut some Three Lions’ supporters claimed the Scottish misfortune was “karma”.That’s because just days earlier Tartan Army followers in Munich had chanted their joy at England’s notorious 1986 World Cup quarter-final defeat against Argentina.The Scots spiced up the Hokey-Cokey with the line: “Oh, Diego Maradona. He put the English out, out, out!”Maradona’s wrongly-allowed “Hand of God” goal set Argentina up for a 2-1 victory on the way to winning the tournament in Mexico almost 38 years ago to the day. READ MORE EURO 2024 NEWSAnd a fellow countryman of the Napoli legend also had a contentious role as Scotland again failed to progress from the group stages.Ref Facundo Tello ignored appeals for a spot-kick at 0-0 in the second half.Manchester United’s Scott McTominay slipped Stuart Armstrong through, with the Southampton midfielder surging in front of Willi Orban but going down under the defender’s challenge.VAR assessed the incident but declined to recommend an on-field review.MOST READ IN FOOTBALLStuart Armstrong was furious not to get a spot-kickCredit: EPAEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYAnd in the end Kevin Csoboth fired a breakaway winner for Hungary 10 minutes into stoppage time.The match had needed a lengthy hold-up as Hungarian forward Barnabas Varga was knocked unconscious in a sickening collision with Scotland keeper Angus Gunn.Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the EurosVarga was taken to hospital and has had surgery for a fractured cheekbone.Afterwards, Clarke had no doubts his team were robbed of a spot-kick – but the extent of his outburst still surprised many.The ex-Chelsea defender and former Reading manager, 60, said: “It’s 100 per cent a penalty and someone has to explain to me why it’s not. “Because otherwise I’m thinking there’s something wrong.“Did I have a conversation with the officials? What’s the point, he’s from Argentina. “What’s the point? Why is it not a European referee? Trying to be clever, I dunno, I don’t understand.  “I don’t understand why he’s here and not in his own country refereeing a game. “I don’t understand how VAR can look at that and say it’s not a penalty.  That’s just my opinion.  It’s 100 per-cent a penalty.”Meet Germany’s Euro 2024 Wags
      Germany’s Wags range from a glam architect to a leading equestrian and a fashion model.
      Dani ter Stegen (Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s wife)
      One of Germany’s most popular Wags with over 600,000 Instagram followers. Earned a degree in architecture after moving to Barcelona with her husband.
      Sara Gundogan (Ilkay Gundogan’s wife)
      Italian model was never shy to pop a dig at Manchester while Ilkay was at Man City, but has changed her tune and said she misses the city since his move to Barcelona.
      Jessica Kroos (Toni Kroos’ wife)
      Couple first met when Toni was 18 and she was 20. Jessica is credited with convincing the soon-to-retire Germany star to sign a new Real Madrid deal at a time when he was wavering.
      Candice Brook (Leroy Sane’s girlfriend)
      American model helped Harry Kane get used to Germany and overcome the language barrier following his move to Bayern Munich.
      Sophia Weber (Kai Havertz’s fiancee)
      Soon-to-be Mrs Havertz has struck up a close friendship with Martin Odegaard’s partner Helene Spilling. Sophia recently enjoyed a hen party in Ibiza.
      Lisa Muller (Thomas Muller’s wife)
      Lisa is a famous dressage rider in Germany and reportedly convinced her husband not to join Man Utd.
      Find out more about the Germany Euro 2024 Wags here

      But Clarke received little sympathy from England fans who had viewed the Hand of God Hokey-Cokey from Scottish counterparts.Sharing a clip of that dancing, one Three Lions’ supporter posted: “How poetic is it that an Argentinian referee denied them a stonewall penalty to send them out after this video. See ya lads airports that way.”Another wrote: “Karma is a b****.”And a third taunted the Scots further by joking: “Gave it their best shot … well one shot anyway.”READ MORE SUN STORIESBut plenty of viewers insisted the spot-kick was far from clear-cut, with many arguing that in fact Armstrong had been the initial offender.Ex-England frontman Alan Shearer backed Clarke’s verdict on the penalty – slamming Orban’s “terrible challenge” – but fellow BBC pundit Chris Sutton was certain the ref’s decision was correct.The stats show what little impact the Scots made going forward More

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      Barnabas Varga gives health update as he shares emotional post from wife after sickening collision at Euro 2024

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      BARNABAS VARGA has issued his first update on his condition in hospital after a sickening collision that overshadowed Hungary’s Euro 2024 game with Scotland.The striker was carried off on a stretcher following an aerial challenge with Scottish keeper Angus Gunn in the second half of the Group A finale.Team-mates have waited anxiously for more news on Barnabas VargaCredit: GettyThe Hungary striker was carried off, with players from both sides shockedCredit: PABarnabas Varga shared a touching message from his wifeCredit: Instagram varga.barnabas_Varga and wife Laura Skrapits celebrate after he won the Hungarian top flight this yearCredit: Instagram: varga.barnabas_And today he shared an Instagram post from his wife Laura Skrapits.She shared a picture of her holding Varga’s hand at his bedside.Her post was captioned: “Thank you for your kind, supportive messages. Barni is over the surgery.”A little rest is waiting for him but he’ll be fine!”READ MORE TOP STORIESHungary team-mates huddled around to protect the Ferencvaros star from view as he was treated on the pitch for several minutes.Players from both sides were clearly anxious over his condition.It was later revealed the 29-year-old had fractured a cheekbone, which rules him out of the rest of the tournament and his dad Andras revealed he underwent surgery.After Kevin Csoboth had hit the only goal in the 10th minute of stoppage time it was immediately obvious where the thoughts of the Hungarian players were focused.Most read in Euro 2024They wore shirts with Varga’s name on it as they walked around in muted mood despite winning.Skipper Dominik Szoboszlai – the Liverpool midfielder – led the way.Tartan Army begins mass exodus from Germany as thousands of Scotland fans head home after Euro 2024 heartbreakAnd even as he raised his arms to acknowledge fans, the expression of the 23-year-old showed he was mirroring their concern over Varga.The 13-cap frontman was reportedly conscious and able to communicate with medics taking him to hospital.Varga was carried off on a stretcher and able to communicate with medical staff on his way to a hospital in StuttgartThe Hungarian camp and Ferencvaros both then issued statements to say he was conscious and in a “stable” condition.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYLiverpool midfielder Szoboszlai highlighted the concern for VargaCredit: GettyHungary boss Marco Rossi said his players had been ‘really worried’Credit: GettyDominik Szoboszlai showed his team’s priority was Varga’s condition as he wore the frontman’s top after the 1-0 win over ScotlandCredit: GettyHis club also promised to update concerned supporters “immediately” when they receive more news.Hungary manager Marco Rossi told BBC Sport on Sunday night: “Varga is okay.”Unfortunately he will be operated on because he suffered a fracture. “We will see, if we progress in the tournament for sure he will not be with us.”Rossi also revealed the fears of his players at the time of the incident.He said: “What I heard from the players is that Barney looked unconscious.”Everybody was really worried about his condition, and worried that the doctors arrived a bit late. Probably they didn’t realise it was a dangerous situation.“We can say now that Barney is not under any kind of risks. “Probably he will be operated on in the coming hours because he suffered a fracture here (cheek), but he’s healthy.”Man of the match Roland Sallai spoke of the ‘terrible incident’Credit: GettyMan of the match Roland Sallai also spoke of the “terrible moment”.He said: “He’ll have to go tough, a minor operation, but we cross our fingers for him that he can return. “Naturally it was a terrible incident. Of course we were fighting for him in the remaining minutes and this win is dedicated to him.”Varga, who has played all his club football in his home country and Austria, was Hungary’s four-goal top scorer in qualifying for the Euros.He started all three of their group matches in Germany this month.And he netted the first of their only two goals so far.Varga gave the Hungarians’ brief hope in their opening match, a 3-1 loss to Switzerland.READ MORE SUN STORIESHe neatly finished off a sublime pass from Szoboszlai when they trailed 2-0.Then came a 2-0 loss to Germany and the 1-0 defeat of Scotland that saw his horrific accident.Hungary Euro 2024 guideA DECADE ago Hungary’s glory days seemed gone forever, but they’ve now qualified for three European Championships in a row.
      A 4-0 win away to England and an unbeaten qualifying campaign shows how dangerous the Hungarians can be on their day.
      MANAGER: Marco Rossi
      One of five Italian coaches at Euro 2024, Rossi has been granted Hungarian citizenship after revitalising the national team during his six years in charge.
      STAR MAN: Dominik Szoboszlai
      Hungary’s captain had a fine start to life at Liverpool before getting injured and losing his form.
      How Hungary attack
      Hungary will slow things down in possession as they look to draw an opposition press.
      From there, they will then tend to his a longer ball over the top of through the opposition defence.
      How Hungary defend
      Hungary will tend to split their press with three players engaging the opposition defence on the ball and the rest sitting deep.
      When this is unsuccessful, it can lead to the opposition finding plenty of space to attack.
      Read the full Hungary Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags More