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      Uefa forced to make late change to stadium ahead of England vs Denmark clash to prevent ‘risk to life’

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      THE BAD WEATHER has forced Uefa into making a late decision regarding England’s upcoming Euro 2024 clash.The Three Lions face Denmark looking to confirm their place in the knockouts with a victory in Frankfurt on Thursday.The roof will be closed in Frankfurt for England’s clash with Denmark at the WaldstadionCredit: GettyHowever, the Group C showdown at the Waldstadion will be played with the stadium roof closed due to stormy conditions in the city.Uefa made the decision today ahead of the clash, which will kick-off at 5pm UK time tomorrow.The roof of the Waldstadion was closed prior to Denmark’s players training on the pitch tonight.The rain storms have already put a dampener on Euro 2024.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Both western and central regions of Germany were issued with weather warnings earlier.That has seen fan zones in Dortmund, Dusseldorf and Gelsenkirchen all being closed due to the harsh conditions.Now, with bad weather already having plagued Euro 2024, Uefa have opted to make an early decision to avoid the game potentially being played in the rain.Cologne was forced to axe a number of fan events on Tuesday due to the weather.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSA statement confirmed: “Due to an official storm warning from late morning with expected heavy rain, hail and heavy gusts of wind, all events and functions of the Host City Cologne associated with the European Championships have to be cancelled for today.“The necessary talks with the security partners were already held yesterday evening and the preparatory measures to secure the venues were initiated.England player ratings: Jude Bellingham delivers masterful Euro 2024 performance but Phil Foden not at his sharpest“The decision to cancel all events was made on Tuesday morning after further consultation with the German Weather Service.”Meteorologist Dominik Jung told BILD stated the closures were necessary and that there had even been a potential “risk to life”.Speaking on Tuesday, he said: “There is a risk to life.“We don’t currently know every place that could get hit, but we do know the region where something could happen.“People will complain again: ‘We didn’t have anything.’ But better safe than sorry.”EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYEngland will be looking to secure their second win of the tournament tomorrow.Gareth Southgate’s side beat Serbia 1-0 on Sunday thanks to a Jude Bellingham header.And they know that a victory would ensure them a place in the knockouts with a game to spare.READ MORE SUN STORIESMeanwhile, Denmark are searching for their first triumph.They were held to a 1-1 draw by Slovenia in their opener and will be desperate to take all three points.Bromances in England squad
      CLIQUES that were commonplace in the England camp in tournaments gone by have been well and truly consigned to history.
      Declan Rice and Ivan Toney? They have never played together at club level and only a handful of times for England, but are thick as thieves.
      Lewis Dunk and Dean Henderson? They play for arch-rivals Brighton and Crystal Palace, but that has not stopped an unlikely alliance from forming.
      Phil Foden and Cole Palmer have relished spending time together again, having done so for years for Manchester City before Palmer was sold to Chelsea for £45million last summer.
      NFL nuts Harry Kane and Anthony Gordon were chucking an American football to each other ahead of a light training session on Monday.
      John Stones and Kieran Trippier gatecrashed Jordan Pickford’s presser to see how their good mate fared, finding it hilarious as he slumped to defeat against talkSPORT.
      Conor Gallagher and Marc Guehi also have a long-standing friendship and have been besties since they were little playing in the Chelsea academy.
      Jude Bellingham and Liverpool man Trent Alexander-Arnold have also become close – evident in the Werewolf celebration they performed against Serbia. More

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      England shouldn’t panic about ‘perfect’ Harry Kane but MUST change tactically to make Phil Foden shine against Denmark

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      FEW nations, if any, match England when it comes to self criticism.The 1-0 win over Serbia would have been cause for celebration for many, but instead it only seemed to raise further questions against the Three Lions’ credentials of winning Euro 2024.Harry Kane had a reserved but effective role against EnglandCredit: RexPhil Foden left a lot to be desired from his displayCredit: RexGareth Southgate has a dilemma on his hands against DenmarkCredit: GettyA dominant opening 25 minutes gave way to a sluggish affair that saw Gareth Southgate’s side struggle for control of the match and dangerously teeter towards conceding.Jude Bellingham came out of the game widely lauded for his performance, but Trent Alexander-Arnold, Phil Foden and even captain Harry Kane came in for criticism from fans and media. England face Denmark, who drew their opening group stage match 1-1 against Slovenia, in game two on Thursday at the Deutsche Bank Park in Frankfurt, live on BBC One at 5pm.The Three Lions will come into the match looking to get six points out of six and secure a route into the knockout stages from Group C.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Denmark will not be easy opponents, and their 3-5-2 system with powerful and quick forward players in Jonas Wind and Rasmus Hojlund and the creativity of Christian Eriksen behind them will cause some problems. In this preview though we will concentrate on the lessons that Southgate may have learned from England’s opening match against Serbia.Do not panic about the Harry Kane roleKane only touched the ball in the penalty area once against SerbiaKane was often far away from the danger zones, instead picking up positions deeperDespite the emergence of Bellingham as a superstar on the world stage, Kane remains the talisman for the English national team. The 30-year-old comes into this tournament off the back of an incredible first season in German football with Bayern Munich where he netted 44 goals and 12 assists.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSDespite the narrative surrounding the game that Kane barely touched the ball, he was in fact performing his role perfectly. While previously we have seen Kane drop into deeper to link the play with the midfield, his role in this England team is different and he is being asked to remain high to pin opposition defenders deep. Play Foden & Bellingham centrally & go for it! | Jack Wilshere’s plan to win the EurosKane’s higher starting position pins two defenders back deeper and allows England to attack isolated defendersThis pinning of the opposition central defenders is intended to create space between their defence and their midfield that can be exploited by the likes of Bellingham and Foden.In this setup we are seeing Kane play a very specific role, but the fact he is not looking to drop in to get the ball and play long-range passing does not mean that his performance has dropped off. Indeed, his movement and positioning were effective against Serbia as he forced them to defend in a deeper line than they would have wanted to.This created the space for the likes of Bellingham, Foden and Alexander-Arnold to occupy in the final third. Foden and jude Bellingham are able to rotate into space in midfield as Kane and Bukayo Saka keep their high lineBy pushing higher and maintaining this high position, we saw Kane create the platform for England’s more creative players to occupy and hurt the Serbians with their movement through the lines.It is also worth bearing in mind that had Kane’s header in the 76th minute found the net and not been touched on to the crossbar then the narrative may have been very different.Should Phil Foden start against Denmark?Foden played off the left against SerbiaYes, yes he should. While it is fair to say Foden did not have his best match against Serbia we have to remember his outstanding performances for Manchester City last season. While Foden may not be at his best when asked to play from the left in a rigid system, it is worth noting that he played a different role to Bukayo Saka played on the right wing. While Sake stayed wide and looked to isolate defenders 1v1 on the wing, we saw Foden drift around the pitch in and out of pockets of space and not stay wide.Part of the issues Foden had in the match was down to the fact that he was trying to come inside and occupy the same spaces that Bellingham was taking up in central spaces. Here as England try to build, Foden ends up occupying the same space as BellinghamFoden wanted to receive in these areas, but having another player, like Bellingham, also spaced centrally meant that it was too crowded.At Real Madrid, Bellingham often rotates outside to fill space on the left side of the attack as Vinicius Junior comes inside, but he typically stayed central in the final third against Serbia.So, how do England and Southgate solve these issues to get the best out of Foden? We believe adjusting the shape to have Bellingham starting from a deeper position, as the number 8 beside Declan Rice, and Foden then playing centrally as the 10 would be more effective in terms of finding the combinations and the angles to play through in the central areas. How England should line up to fix Foden dilemmaEngland were far too narrow in possession due to Foden coming insideThis would also allow Southgate to use a more direct winger on the left side to stretch the pitch and create space centrally for their best players.If Foden does play on the left side against Denmark then he will have to stay slightly wider, at the very least in the channels, in order to find the space to play.England Euro 2024 guideGARETH SOUTHGATE is under no illusions coming into this competition – it is win or bust.
      The Three Lions have never had a better opportunity to end their 58-year wait for a major international trophy given the talent and experience they have in their armoury.
      MANAGER: Gareth Southgate
      The former England star has come closer than anyone since Sir Alf Ramsey to ending the Three Lions’ trophy hoodoo.
      Southgate is aware that the nations expects, and has even suggested he will quit if he doesn’t deliver the European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Jude Bellingham
      The Real Madrid star is arguably the world’s best player at the moment and gives England the platform they need to dominate big games.
      How England attack
      England will look to dominate the ball against almost everybody.
      Declan Rice is crucial in progressing the ball, Bellingham, Saka and Foden will rotate to pull defenders out of position and Kane can both score and drop deep to provide chances for others.
      How England defend
      England press man-to-man with the midfield pushing up to support Kane when the ball is lost and look to win it as close to the opposition goal as possible.
      However, the left-back spot could be a cause for concern, particularly with Luke Shaw entering the tournament with fitness worries.
      Read the full England Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.

      Have England solved their defensive problems?While England came into the tournament with fans and pundits alike praising their attacking options, there was real concern about the squad from a defensive perspective.While long-term Southgate favourite Harry Maguire was left out of the final squad there was a question mark as to who would start as the left-sided central defender in their back four?In the end, Southgate decided to go with Crystal Palace star Marc Guehi, and the 23-year-old defender barely put a foot wrong. In possession, he was safe and secure but also displayed the ability to progress the ball through the lines.Marc Guehi had a strong display against SerbiaCredit: APGuehi was consistently brave and comfortable in possessionDefensively he was solid as he dealt with the threat of the dangerous Serbian forwards.Juventus ace Dusan Vlahovic, in particular, looked to play on Guehi’s side of the pitch.But we saw the defender play effectively whether he was defending tight or in space as he stopped Vlahovic from receiving the ball in dangerous positions.And this was key in helping earn a clean sheet.Here Guehi looks to fire the ball into the feet of Foden as he drops back to receive the ballKeeping the partnership of John Stones and Guehi at the centre of the defence might be one of the keys for England if they are to be successful in this tournament.Of course, different opponents will require different remedies. Denmark Euro 2024 guideTHE winners of Euro 1992 will be hoping for another unlikely surge to the latter stages under boss Kasper Hjulmand.
      The spirit of the squad cannot be questioned after they recovered from Christian Eriksen’s collapse to make it to the Euro 2020 semi-finals and give England a scare.
      MANAGER: Kasper Hjulmand
      Played in America for North Florida Ospreys and became Thomas Tuchel’s successor at Mainz in 2014. 
      KEY MAN: Rasmus Hojlund
      One of few bright sparks as Man Utd finished a dismal eighth in the Premier League. Can cause problems with his tireless work ethic and clinical finishing.
      How Denmark attack
      Denmark are very structured and patient in the way they attack.
      They will often push a midfielder up to join the three strikers and attempt to create a four-man overload.
      How Denmark defend
      While Denmark attack in a 4-3-3, or even a 4-2-2, they will drop into a deeper 5-4-1 out of possession.
      They will wait patiently for the right moment to press and recover quickly if the opposition attempt to play over the top.
      Read the full Denmark Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags

      Denmark will be dangerous oppositionDenmark have a tall and quick front line in Rasmus Hojlund and Jonas WindCredit: RexDespite only coming out of their opening group stage game against Slovenia with one point, Denmark will still be difficult opposition for England. Their strikers, Wind and Hojlund, are both over 6ft with pace and power and the ability to run in behind the defensive line. They have experience and technical quality throughout their squad and they will have studied the Serbia match to understand the threat England pose.The key for England will be in finding ways to apply pressure to the Danish build-up.The likes of Foden, Saka and Bellingham will have to be ready to join Kane in pressing high against the three-man Danish backline to prevent them from building their attack.READ MORE SUN STORIESConclusionAt the end of the day, England are the only side in Group C to come through the opening round of fixtures with three points and they have put themselves in the driving seat to secure qualification.Beating Denmark will see England through to the knockout stages, where the margins grow even finer. EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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      Putin CENSORS the Euros as Georgia fans’ VERY rude chant during Turkey clash is suddenly scrubbed from Russian broadcast

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      VLADIMIR Putin has censored a Euros broadcast to stop Russians from hearing a rude chant about him at the tournament.Georgian fans loudly chorused “Putin is a ****head” around the 38th minute of their team’s game against Turkey before it was scrubbed in a cowardly move.Putin censored a ‘very rude’ chant during a Euros matchCredit: Kommersant Photo / Polaris More

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      Croatia 2-2 Albania LIVE RESULT – Modric and Co’s Euro 2024 hopes hang by a thread after gruelling draw – updates

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      CROATIA’S Euro 2024 knockout stage qualification hopes are hanging by a thread after being held to a chaotic draw by Albania.Luca Modric and Co were stunned when they saw Qazim Laci sneak in behind their defence before nodding Albania ahead.But Andrej Kramaric’s tidy finish followed by a calamitous own goal saw Croatia close in on three crucial points.Until Klaus Gjasula scored an equaliser in the dying minutes of stoppage time.
      RESULT: Croatia 2-2 Albania
      FREE live stream: ITVX
      TV channel: ITV1
      Croatia XI: Livakovic, Juranovic, Sutalo, Gvardiol, Perisic, Modric, Brozovic, Kovacic, Majer, Petkovic, Kramaric
      Albania XI: Strakosha, Hysaj, Ajeti, Djimsiti, Mitaj, Ramadani, Asllani, Laçi, Asani, Manaj, Bajrami
      EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from The Volksparkstadion with our live blog below…Good result for group favourites
      Both Spain and Italy will be pleased to see a draw in this game.
      While they play each other tomorrow, that result aside, it means that both Croatia and Albania would need to pull off unlikely victories.
      For Albania, this result is a huge positive but Croatia are facing the harsh reality of an early exit.
      Copy linkCopiedFalcons pick off their prey
      Albania have left Croatia feeling like they have suffered defeat there.
      Having worked so hard to turn the game around, the late equaliser from Gjasula left the ‘Checkered Ones’ dead on their feet.
      The Falcons meanwhile, have shown in this tournament that they are nobody’s pushovers.
      Credit: AP
      Credit: AP
      Credit: AFP
      Copy linkCopiedHamburg serves up meaty battle
      What a game of football we were treated to there.
      In different phases of the game, both of these sides were brilliant and looked sure to go on and dominate the game.
      However, we just saw how a game of football can change in an instant.

      Copy linkCopiedSome players cannot be replaced
      When Luka Modric steps away from international football, he will leave a huge hole in this Croatian side.
      Even at the age of 38-years-old, he continuously pulls the strings for Croatia.
      His vision, passing and composure was key for them to get back into this game and almost win it.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Croatia 2-2 Albania
      This is what tournament football is all about.
      Albania deservedly led before Croatia completely turned the game on its head in a matter of minutes.
      Deep into added time, The Falcons score to leave Croatian fans feeling sick to their stomach.

      Copy linkCopiedFT: Croatia 2-2 Albania
      The referee brings a dramatic game to a close.
      Both sides had chances to win this after the equaliser late on.
      What a game of football we have witnessed.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-2 Albania
      90+6. Wow. Wow. Wow.
      What drama we are seeing in Hamburg.
      Albania continue to pressure and Broja does well down the left flank to get a cross into the box.
      Gjasula arrives at the edge of the box to slot home and make ammends for his earlier own goal.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Klaus Gjasula (Albania)
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      90+4. Wow. Seferi has two gilt-edged chances to score.
      The first is blocked by the defender but as the ball comes back to the Albanian, he blazes his effort over the bar.
      Croatia breath a sigh of relief.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      90+2. Weirdly, the fourth official changes the added time to six minutes.
      The keeper has been receiving treatment for a phantom injury and now has his nose plugged with dressing.
      However, looking at the replay, there was no contact with his head from the Albanian player whatsoever.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      90. If Croatia can hold onto this result, it will leave them with an intriguing last game against Italy.
      Albania get a shot in from the edge of the box but Likakovic makes a good stop.
      The Falcons are first to the follow up but once again the keeper gets a touch as the ball goes over the bar.
      No corner for Albania as the assistant raises his flag for offside.
      We are going to have five added minutes.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      88. Modric rides a challenge and looks to drill one from outside the box.
      He drags it wide of the far post with the keeper at full stretch.
      Time is running out now for the Albanians.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      86. Albania are starting to dominate possession now.
      As they look for a goal that could give them something from this game, Croatia are looking to hit them on the counter.
      The Falcons’ fans look dejected in the stands.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      84. Perisic and Kramaric come off for Croatia.
      They are replaced by Baturina and Sosa.
      Albania are having to throw caution to the wind now.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      82. Albania just do not have enough bodies in the final third whenever they come forward.
      They are not set up tactically to chase this game.
      Up until ten minutes ago, they were planning on defending their lead until the finish.
      Credit: Getty
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      80. Croatia look a completely different team in this second half.
      Whatever the manager said in the interval has definitely worked.
      The pressure is on Albania to get forward now.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      78. Suddenly Croatia are in pole position once again.
      If they can hold on for victory, they stand a good chance of making it out of the group.
      They are not letting up here and continue to look for another goal.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 2-1 Albania
      76. Croatia have turned this game on its head in a matter of minutes.
      Looking at the replay the ball ricocheted off two Albanian players before ending up in the back of the net.
      Heartbreak for The Falcons.
      Copy linkCopiedOwn Goal – Klaus Gjasula (Albania)
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 1-1 Albania
      74. Finally Croatia manage to break down the Albanian resistance.
      As Kramaric checks onto his right foot, the defender does that weird thing they do in the modern game.
      He stands side on to the attacker, not looking to tackle him, and the Croatian puts the ball through his legs leaving the keeper unsighted.
      Copy linkCopiedGoal – Andrej Kramaric (Croatia)
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      72. Albania are getting some pivotal last ditch tackles in.
      They are managing to frustrate the Croatians with time running out.
      The goalscorer comes off for Albania, replaced by Gjasula.
      Credit: EPA
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      70. It is an old cliche in football but Albania need to ‘stop the cross’.
      Perisic is getting some dangerous balls in and it seems only a matter of time before Croatia capitalise.
      Modric comes over to take a corner for the Croatians.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      68. Perisic twists and turns out wide before getting a teasing cross in.
      Petkovic meets it with a header but it is not troubling the keeper.
      That is his last action of this game as he is replaced by Budimir.
      Copy linkCopiedCroatia 0-1 Albania
      66. First sight of goal for Bajrami in this second half.
      He jockeys the defender and gets a shot off at goal but it is well wide.
      As Croatia push forward more now, that break is always on.
      Copy linkCopied More

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      Croatia 2 Albania 2: Plucky underdogs score dramatic late equaliser after calamity own-goal to leave Croats on the brink

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      ALBANIA salvaged a stunning last-minute point in a Euros epic against Croatia in Hamburg.Qazim Laci had given the Albanians a shock 11th minute lead to boost their chances of advancing from the group stages for the first time in their 94-year history.Albania grabbed an added time equaliserCredit: GettyCroatia were left heartbrokenCredit: RexYet with the Croats close to croaking, two goals in the 74th and 76th minute acted as a much-needed lifeline after a hellish performance.But it did not end there as this ballsy Albania outfit pushed for a leveller and got their rewards thanks to Klaus Gjasula’s 95th minute strike.Gjasula had initially handed Croatia the lead with a bizarre own goal two minutes after ex-Leicester man Andrej Kramaric’s equaliser.This topsy-turvy game had everything, but agonisingly for both nations, not the three points they needed as they sit with one a piece.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLWith Group B now tightly poised, a final day miracle from either side is required to reach the last 16.Croatia face Italy in Leipzig and Albania take on Spain in Dusseldorf on June 24.Albania will be heartbroken, and rightly so, having also taken the lead against Italy only to crumble in a similarly painful way. For large periods, they had Croatia on the ropes.And make no mistake, Croatia were woeful at times and should consider themselves lucky to still have a pulse in Germany.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThey are a shadow of the team that reached the World Cup final in 2018 and semi-finals in Qatar in 2022.Their starting XI average age of 30 years and one day points to the fact that their Golden Generation of talent looks to be at an end.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024And skipper Luca Modric – who turns 39 in September – may well be retiring off the back of this miserable Euros campaign, perhaps sooner than expected.Before this one, the greatest Euros upset in terms of world rankings came on Monday, as Slovakia in 48th beat Belgium in third.Albania – the second lowest ranked in the competition in 66th – came agonisingly close to smashing that record out of the water against tenth-placed Croatia.What a job former Arsenal full-back Sylvinho has done since taking charge of Albania in January 2023. Guiding them here was success in itself, but taking Italy and Croatia all the way in the toughest of groups? Ludicrous.The Albanians were ahead against the Italians after just 23 seconds before losing 2-1.They could not replicate that speed against Croatia, but it was still a fast start via Laci – one of two changes Sylvinho made alongside Armando Broja dropping out for Rey Manaj.Laci drifted into the box unmarked and glanced Jasir Asani’s superb cross towards goal. Domink Livakovic was behind it but unable to stop it dribbling through his hands.A calamitous own goal put Croatia 2-1 upCredit: EPACroatia simply were not at the races, bizarre considering the magnitude of this result. Dalic had tried to spice things with three changes from the Spain disappointment.Ivan Perisic returned at left-back with Josko Gvardiol shifting to a more familiar centre back role while Bruno Petkovic led the line in place of Ante Budimir.There was experience and nous all over the park, but Albania were covering the grass like their lives depended on it, hitting Croatia on the counter and defending valiantly.While Croatia were toothless and lacking ideas, Albania should have doubled their lead in the 30th minute as Kristjan Asllani raced through but Livakovic stood firm.Remarkably, another chance went begging as Gvardiol clumsily lost the ball but Manaj’s subsequent header lacked power.Dalic responded at half time with two changes – Mario Pasalic and Luka Sucic on for Marcelo Brozovic and Lovro Majer.Croatia began to dominate proceedings with Albania dropping deep and defending their lead. Petkovic and Mateo Kovacic were denied by Thomas Strakosha.And then, the comeback. Kramaric was fed by another sub in Budimir, cutting inside before finding the bottom corner – a first Euros goal to celebrate his 33rd birthday.Gjasula’s own goal has to be seen to be believed, Budimir’s cut-back cleared by Berat Djimsiti but into his own man as it ballooned into his own net.Albania found a second wind, however, and Gjasula responded in the best possible way, belting past Livakovic with seconds remaining.READ MORE SUN STORIESDalic demanded the same amount of respect that England get before this game. Respectfully, this Croatian lot are no where near the Three Lions.Klaus Gjasula celebrated the last gasp equaliserCredit: AFPMORE TO FOLLOW…THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

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      Watch N’Golo Kante’s shy reaction as France dressing room goes wild after his heroics against Austria

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      N’GOLO KANTE was given a hero’s welcome by his France team-mates after his masterclass against Austria. The Chelsea legend was the standout in the 2018 World Cup champion’s group stage opener in Germany. N’Golo Kante was given a hero’s welcome by his France team-matesKante was the standout against AustriaAnd even his team-mates were gobsmacked with the performance as they cheered Kante’s arrival into the dressing room. But the famously shy and humble Al-Ittihad star did not say a word and instead cut a gleeful look as he took his seat with fans in awe. One said: “Is there a more likeable player than Kante?”Another added: “Love him man.”READ MORE ON EURO 2024Kante partnered with Adrien Rabiot in the 1-0 victory and rolled back the clock to cover every blade of grass on the pitch. The former Blue left London last summer for Saudi Arabia after a period of the sidelines for Chelsea. But this season he has got back to full fitness with over 40 appearances – just in time for France manager Didier Deschamps. Deschamps said after victory over Austria: “I brought him for that. Once I was sure that he had rediscovered his athletic means. Most read in Euro 2024France Euro 2024 guideFRANCE are the one nation all England fans are truly afraid of.

      They are many punters’ favourites after knocking the Three Lions out of the 2022 World Cup and will be hoping to do much better than at Euro 2020, when they lost to Switzerland in the last 16.
      MANAGER: Didier Deschamps
      Coming up to 12 years in the job, the only thing missing from his CV is a European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Kylian Mbappe
      Mbappe’s PSG may have underachieved on the European stage but he remains France’s most deadly threat, with a World Cup trophy and a World Cup final hat-trick to his name.
      How France attack
      Expect to see France play in a fluid 4-3-3 – which becomes 4-2-3-1 in possession – throughout the tournament.
      Giroud acts as the focal point in the attack with the two wide players and Griezmann as No 10 supporting.
      How France defend
      We can expect to see France defend high with an emphasis on winning back possession as far up the pitch as possible.
      France will stagger their defensive shape when the opposition are in possession.
      Read the full France Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags.

      CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY”He has tactical intelligence, the ability to win the ball back and then go forward. He shone. He was well partnered by Adrien Rabiot.” Despite Kante’s rise in form, France are sweating on Kylian Mbappe following his horror nose injury. Mbappe – recently signed by Real Madrid – faces missing the group stage matches. But there is hope he will be able to return in time for the knockout stages wearing a protective mask. Mbappe faces a fight to be fit for the Euros knockout stagesCredit: Getty More

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      Watch IShowSpeed’s X-rated meltdown after police block him from seeing Cristiano Ronaldo at Euro 2024

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      ISHOWSPEED launched an incredible rant after police stopped him from meeting Cristiano Ronaldo.The internet star and CR7 superfan has travelled to Germany to support Portugal at Euro 2024.Speed waited 90 minutes to meet Ronaldo and LeaoCredit: Youtube / IShowSpeedBut he was escorted outside by policeCredit: Youtube / IShowSpeedHe ended missing the chance to meet his idols as the team bus then went pastCredit: Youtube / IShowSpeedHe ranted at police officersCredit: Youtube / IShowSpeedThe American was sat in VIP seats as Roberto Martinez’s side came from behind to seal a dramatic win 2-1 win over the Czech Republic.Speed, 19, live streamed his reaction to the game for the entire 90 minutes.And after the final whistle, the teen with 25.5million YouTube subscribers went downstairs to meet his idols.Speed waited in the players’ car park for an hour and a half and was on his phone texting Portugal star Rafael Leao, who agreed to meet him.READ MORE ON EURO 2024But disaster struck for the influencer as he was escorted away by cops.They told him all fans in the area had to leave, with his claims of being in contact with Leao falling on deaf ears.Speed was taken outside and told to wait there – only for the Portugal team bus to then drive past.He shouted Ronaldo’s name at the coach as it zoomed out the Leipzig Stadium before turning to the camera as he looked on devastated.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSSpeed then raged: “See I missed them because of the f***ing police officers.”I’m leaving bro. All these f***ing police officers. I just missed them because of these officers.YouTube star Speed collapses in shock as he FINALLY meets his hero Cristiano Ronaldo before the pair share a hug”Stupid f***ing officers. He literally told me to wait right there.”Speed met Ronaldo after attending a Portugal game in June last year.He collapsed to his knees, posed for a photo and hugged the former Manchester United and Real Madrid legend.The meet and greet was supposedly organised by Leao after the pair messaged each other again.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYAwestruck Speed fell to the ground as he met Cristiano Ronaldo last yearCredit: YouTube / IShowSpeed More

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      William Saliba ignoring his Arsenal team-mates at Euro 2024 as he opens up on France breakthrough

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      WILLIAM SALIBA is ignoring his Arsenal teammates as the defender bids to defy his France doubters.The Gunners star, 23, has decided not to keep in touch with his club pals playing for other nations during Euro 2024 in a bid to give everything to France.William Saliba is focusing on France and not talking to his Arsenal teammates while at Euro 2024Credit: GettyAsked whether he was in contact with the likes of Bukayo Saka and Declan Rice, he said: “I haven’t spoken to anyone from Arsenal. I will leave them be for the tournament.”The coach is on vacation, you have to leave him alone. I already see my teammates enough during the season!”My France teammates are giving me enough support.”Saliba admitted he was surprised to be given a start in Les Bleus’ opener against Austria on Monday, keeping a clean sheet in Dusseldorf as Didier Dechamps men won 1-0.READ MORE ON EURO 2024While many have hailed Saliba as one of the best defenders in the Premier League under Mikel Arteta, he has struggled to make his mark with France.Dayot Upamecano, who started alongside Saliba against Austria, and Liverpool’s Ibrahima Konate are the usual pairing at the back at international level.The Gunners man has not had many chances to show he can replicate his Arsenal form for his country and earlier this year was even criticised by his manager.Speaking in March, Deschamps said the defender was having a good season but “does things that I don’t like so much.”Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSBut the veteran France boss has been impressed by Saliba’s performances in training since the squad gathered at Clairefontaine last month and gave him the nod ahead of Konate against Austria.There were a couple of hairy moments at times in Dusseldorf, but Saliba ended with a clean sheet and praise from fans and reporters back home.Arsenal star William Saliba shows off collaboration with Crocs as bemused fans say ‘I can’t believe this is real’It was a crucial step for someone who has struggled with confidence when it comes to international football – admitting when speaking from their Paderborn base that playing for his country brings added pressure.Asked if the start came as a surprise, Saliba said: “I wasn’t really expecting it but when I got called up for the Euros you know you have to be ready for the team.”I played the last friendly and kept a clean sheet and now I’ve got more confidence than the previous matches.”The national team jersey is heavier than the club jersey, we have a whole country behind us.”Competition is intense. We are lucky to have a lot of good centre backs.”Usually it’s Upamecano and Konate who start and who set the bar high.”So I know that when I start I must not do less than that. We pull each other up, we’re all friends.”Saliba’s journey with France – having to silence critics and show his class under pressure – is nothing new.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYArsenal signed the young defender from St. Etienne in 2019, sending him back to the French club for that season.Two more loans, to Nice and Marseille, followed before finally being given a chance at The Emirates and becoming the formidable force fans see today.Saliba added: “When I was on loan I wanted to come back to Arsenal and show that I can play in this team and it was the same with the national team.”I want to start games and prove that the coach can count on me. I will try to do my best when the coach needs me.”Having had doubts early on in his career, it was at Marseille where things really clicked.He said: “The biggest turnaround was when I went on loan to Marseille.”The first six months at Arsenal I didn’t play and then went to Nice for six months.”Afterwards when I went to Marseille I improved a lot quickly. That gave me my first step into the French team. READ MORE SUN STORIES”There was a year and a half between Nice and Marseille and it was good to stay at the top level.”Having taken his chance at a major tournament with France, Saliba is hoping for another shot when Les Bleus face the Netherlands in Leipzig on Friday night – an opportunity to repeat the trick of his growth at Arsenal with his country.France Euro 2024 guideFRANCE are the one nation all England fans are truly afraid of.
      They are many punters’ favourites after knocking the Three Lions out of the 2022 World Cup and will be hoping to do much better than at Euro 2020, when they lost to Switzerland in the last 16.
      MANAGER: Didier Deschamps
      Coming up to 12 years in the job, the only thing missing from his CV is a European Championship.
      STAR MAN: Kylian Mbappe
      Mbappe’s PSG may have underachieved on the European stage but he remains France’s most deadly threat, with a World Cup trophy and a World Cup final hat-trick to his name.
      How France attack
      Expect to see France play in a fluid 4-3-3 – which becomes 4-2-3-1 in possession – throughout the tournament.
      Giroud acts as the focal point in the attack with the two wide players and Griezmann as No 10 supporting.
      How France defend
      We can expect to see France defend high with an emphasis on winning back possession as far up the pitch as possible.
      France will stagger their defensive shape when the opposition are in possession.
      Read the full France Euro 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags. More