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    Romania’s ‘hottest fan’ is model Wag, reality TV star and singer who stuns supporters in tiny bikinis

    ROMANIA’S football players are not the only ones stunning the world this summer.Their men’s football team romped to a 3-0 victory over Ukraine in their opening group match of Euro 2024, and the win would have left their hottest fan over the moon.Aza Gabriela is Romania’s hottest fanCredit: Instagram @azagabrielaAza is a music artist and social media star who shot to fame on Romania’s The VoiceCredit: Instagram @azagabrielaShe is currently dating Atletico Madrid and Ukraine goalkeeper Horațiu MoldovanCredit: Instagram @azagabrielaWhile it was the likes of Radu Dragusin and Nicolae Stancui taking the thunder on the pitch, off it was Romanian music artist Aza Gabriela stealing the limelight.Aza, 25, was born in Calarasi and is social media sensation with almost one million followers across TikTok and Instagram.As well a successful career in music, the 25-year-old is also a model and reality TV star.She originally shot to fame on Romania’s version of The Voice, making it all the way to the semi-final in 2015 which saw her career explode.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLAza did athletics for five years before switching over to music.Speaking to Fanatik in 2021, she said: “Although I did five years of athletics, a sport that I actually loved, I was faced with a choice. “And, at that time, just as I would do it, in fact, even now, I chose to go on with music.”But, when it comes to ambition, I can say that I have worked since I was a child and I have that in my blood, so I am convinced that I will get where I want to be in music.Most read in Euro 2024Aza did athletics for five years before picking a career in musicCredit: Instagram @azagabrielaAza has almost one million followers on Instagram and TikTokCredit: Instagram @azagabriela”I go to the gym from time to time, unfortunately I don’t have time for sports every day, as sometimes I would like. “When it comes to maintenance, however, I rely on simple skin cleansing procedures, proper maintenance and hydration.”England Wags Instagram Rich ListHer remarkable rise has also seen her enter some high profile relationships.In 2019 she began dating Romanian footballer Dragoș Nedelcu after meeting on Instagram, but after three years together the pair split. On the break up, she told Kanal D: “Footballers must have a woman next to them who is at home, and I wasn’t there, I was away on business. “We loved each other very much, we cared extremely much about each other, but we both felt that things were not working anymore and we chose to make this decision.”The woman who wants a footballer has to do nothing, just stay after him, be at home when he comes from the training camp, wait for him with food at home and stay next to him. “I used to do this thing, but I couldn’t take it anymore.”Aza has since moved on and is now dating Romania’s Euro 2024 back-up goalkeeper Horațiu Moldovan. Moldovan, 26, is highly rated at club Atletico Madrid, but with just 11 international caps to his name, 36-year-old Florin Niță was preferred in goal for the Ukraine match.Before the tournament, Aza posted a series of photos alongside him with the caption: “It happened for a reason…❤️”Her reality TV appearances have included “Splash! Stars in the water”.READ MORE SUN STORIESAnd if that wasn’t enough, her dazzling outfits on social media always get fans hearts pumping.She, and the rest of Romania, will doubtless be hoping their football team can carry their momentum from Ukraine into match two against Belgium on Saturday.Aza regularly stuns fans with her dazzling outfitsCredit: Instagram @azagabrielaShe is also a reality TV starCredit: Instagram @azagabrielaRomania 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

    EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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    England injury blow as Luke Shaw is ruled OUT of Denmark clash with Man Utd star still training alone at Euro 2024

    LUKE SHAW is out of England’s clash with Denmark on Thursday.Gareth Southgate has confirmed that the Manchester United’s left-back will miss the Three Lions’ second group game as he continues to nurse an injury.Luke Shaw will miss England vs DenmarkCredit: GettySpeaking ahead of the Group C face off with the Danes, Southgate said: “Luke won’t be involved tomorrow, no.”He’s actually on track for where we thought he would be originally.”We were hoping a couple of days ago we might accelerate that a little bit, but he needs a bit more volume work.”He went on to explain that the Euro 2020 final goalscorer is still training alone to manage his workload.READ MORE IN EURO 2024EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYAdding: “He didn’t train with the rest of the group today because there are days where he needs to do more than the rest of the group and there are days when he needs to recover when the others are pushing.”So he’s still in and out with the others, but operating on his own programme as well.”Shaw is still struggling with a muscular issue he picked up with Man Utd back in February.The defender was sidelined for England’s 1-0 win over Serbia on Sunday with Kieran Tripper deployed on the left side instead.Most read in Euro 2024Gareth Southgate has refused to put a timeline on Shaw’s returnCredit: GettyEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSShaw is the only out-and-out left-back in Southgate’s 26-man squad for the tournament.The England boss has still given no schedule for when fans can expect to see Shaw back on the pitch.SunSport’s Latest Euro 2024 headlinesBut Shaw’s club manager, Erik ten Hag, used his knowledge of the injury to predict it wouldn’t be until after the group stages.Speaking on Dutch TV channel NOS on Sunday night, he said: “Luke Shaw will start playing once England get out of the group stages.”Southgate has favoured playing natural right-back Trippier on the left side in Shaw’s absence during his tenure, and it would be safe to assume that will be his plan on Thursday.The England boss defended his decision to bring Shaw to Germany despite his injury woes.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.

    He said: “Luke is obviously an outstanding player. That’s why we’ve taken the decision to bring him although he’s not played for so long. “I don’t want to put a timeline on it right at this moment.“He’s progressing well. The balance he gives, the drive he gives, whoever plays with him down that side of the pitch he gives a different outlet. READ MORE SUN STORIES”We’re adapting to not having him and having to find a different way”.England can book their place in the last-16 with a win over Denmark in Frankfurt.Kieran Trippier has been filling in at left-back for ShawCredit: GettyFour dilemmas for Southgate ahead of England’s second Euro 2024 clash

    GARETH SOUTHGATE has plenty to think about ahead of Thursday’s second Group C game against Denmark.
    SunSport’s CHARLIE WYETT looks at the major issues facing the England boss…
    TRENT ALEXANDER-ARNOLD
    Southgate believes the Liverpool right-back could ultimately be an outstanding partner for Declan Rice in midfield. Alexander-Arnold did OK in the 1-0 win over Serbia but he is a work in progress in this position — to put it mildly. Asked about his display, Southgate said: “It seemed he was great when we were in control but struggled a bit when we lost control.” Conor Gallagher was introduced and he made England more solid. If Alexander-Arnold is dropped for Denmark, the entire experiment is over.
    PHIL FODEN
    The Manchester City star is becoming an enigma, which is such a shame. Particularly as he has come off an absolutely terrific season for City. Foden has now played 35 times for England and you can count the good games on one hand. Southgate will surely stick with Foden for the Denmark match rather than unleash Anthony Gordon or Eberechi Eze. If Foden struggles on Thursday, Southgate has to make the call and replace him after an hour.
    KIERAN TRIPPIER
    The Newcastle defender did well against Serbia even though he is not fully fit, having only just returned from a long lay-off. Add the fact he is right-footed and neither is he a perfect fit on the left. Southgate aims to start Luke Shaw when he is 100 per cent but this is unlikely to be against Denmark.
    HARRY KANE
    The England captain nearly scored his 64th international goal when he hit the bar — but it was still a struggle. He only touched the ball twice in the first half. Kane is certainly not dropping as deeply as he has in the past so the service has to be better. Equally, he does not look totally match sharp. He missed the end of the season with Bayern Munich with a back injury although he returned as a sub for England against Bosnia and Herzegovina. The slight concern over Kane was one reason a third striker, Ivan Toney, was added to the  squad, with both James Maddison and Jack Grealish missing out. More

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    Germany 2-0 Hungary LIVE RESULT- Euro 2024: Gundogan and Musiala strike as the hosts sail into knockout stages

    GERMANY have become the first team to advance to the Euro 2024 Last 16 after beating Hungary 2-0!Ilkay Gundogan and Jamal Musiala scored sublime goals to send the hosts through.Hungary are not mathematically out just yet and must beat Scotland in their final group clash to have any hope.
    Kick off time: 5pm BST
    TV channel: BBC One
    FREE live stream: BBC iPlayer
    Germany team: Neuer; Kimmich, Rudiger, Tah, Mittelstadt; Andrich, Kroos; Musiala, Gundogan, Wirtz; Havertz
    Hungary team: Gulacsi; Fiola, Orban, Dardai; Bolla, Nagy, Schafer, Kerkez; Sallai, Szoboszlai, Varga
    EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Germany on their A game
    Host nation Germany are the first team to book a place in the knockout stage after back-to-back wins.
    Die Mannschaft sit top of Group A with six points while Hungary must beat Scotland in their final fixture to have any hope of sneaking through.

    Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Stuttgart Arena
    Toni Kroos completed 124 passes in Germany’s 2-0 win over Hungary, the second most on record by a midfielder in European Championship game.
    The Real Madrid star sits only behind Xavi’s 127 successful passes for Spain against the Republic of Ireland at EURO 2012.
    Kroos’ 47 line breaking passes were at least 30 more than any other player in this match.

    Copy linkCopiedFull time – Germany 2-0 Hungary
    And in the end…
    …the Germans won.
    They weren’t as cut-throat and goal-crazy as they were against Scotland, but the host nation once again showed their class to see off a committed Hungary side.
    Goals in either half from Jamal Musiala and Ilkay Gundogan did the business, and Julian Nagelsmann can rest in the knowledge that they have sealed their path into the Last 16.

    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    90. Hungary almost pull one back with seconds remaining!
    Martin Adam flattens Manuel Neuer, leading to the ball dropping into the path of Willie Orban.
    The centre-back sends an instinctive header goalwards, only for it to be cleared off the line by the recovering Kimmich.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary – Mittelstadt yellow card
    88. Fantasy football players around the globe unleash a volley of expletives at their televisions as popular pick Maximilian Mittelstadt is yellow carded for tripping Kleinheisler.
    An unnecessary caution in so many ways.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    85. With five minutes remaining, I think both teams have given up on what was such a competitive match for so long – this is meandering towards a 2-0 result.
    Niclas Fullkrug tries to change all that with an effort at goal that sails well wide.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    83. As much as I hate VAR, I think I hate the extension to five substitutes even more as a flowing football killer.
    Brighton reserve Deniz Undav is on now, taking over the terrific Ilkay Gundogan.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    81. By the way, I missed it in the excitement of looking up group permutations, but Hungary have brought on lumberjack and social media favourite Martin Adam.
    The towering striker is on along with Zsolt Nagy for the final stages, Milos Kerkez and Bendeguz Bolla making way.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    79. If Chris Fuhrich wants to strengthen his claims as a professional football then he might want to do better than this.
    In space on the left with plenty of time, the substitute swerves a wayward shot away from goal and towards the corner flag.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    77. Sane wants a goal to strengthen his first team claims.
    He had one snapshot saved a couple of minutes ago, and now puts another effort wide.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    75. Germany are quarter of an hour away from sealing their place in the Last 16, an outcome made possible by Albania’s 2-2 draw with Croatia earlier.
    If you want to know the mathematical reasons why, message either M. Platini or A. Ceferin at the Home of Football, Nyon.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    73. Hungary have been rocked by that second German goal, and the hosts are in no mood to let them off the hook.
    Kimmich goes close again with a thunderous effort that calls Gulacsi into action.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary – Germany double substitution
    71. Jamal Musiala comes off to a tremendous reception.
    The scorer of Die Mannschaft’s opening goal is withdrawn along with Robert Andrich, and on come Emre Can and Chris Fuhrich.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    69. Kimmich almost makes it three with a thunderous cross-shot on the run down the right.
    To be honest, the defender would have done better to pick Fullkrug out in the middle, and the substitutes wastes no time in letting him know as much.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 2-0 Hungary
    67. It’s two! It’s Ilkay Gundogan! It’s fantastic!
    The German captain finishes off a flowing move, sweeping home with his left foot after wonderful work from Maximilian Mittelstadt on the left.
    Jamal Musiala feeds the defender bursting down the wing, and he centres low for Gundogan to beat Peter Gulacsi in style.
    Germany are heading for two wins from two.

    Copy linkCopiedCaptain fantastic!

    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary – Hungary substitution
    64. A first change for the Hungarians with Laszlo Kleinheisler coming on for Adam Nagy.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
    62. Musiala shoots wide following some German attacking that has been few and far between in the second period.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
    60. Great chance for Varga! Over!
    Oh, the forward has passed up Hungary’s best opportunity of the game!
    Szoboszlai sent a lovely cross over from the left, Varga got the better of Tah, but the striker put his header back across goal and over the Neuer’s crossbar.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary – Germany double substitution
    58. Julian Nagelsmann is the first coach to make changes.
    The German removes attackers Kai Havertz and Florian Wirtz, but don’t get too comfortable, Hungary fans.
    On come Leroy Sane and Niclas Fullkrug.

    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
    56. Some robust defending from Tah puts the ball out of play, sends Szoboszlai to the floor, and draws a standing ovation from the fans on the near side.
    You can have all the fancy football you like, but supporters still enjoy an old-fashioned heavy tackle.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
    54. Great reactions from Gulacsi!
    The Hungary goalkeeper pushes out a fizzed cross from the left, and then picks himself up to parry Kroos’ half-volley follow-up.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
    52. The game is beginning to open up.
    After Kimmich and co. stand up to the latest Hungary attack, the Germans almost pull open their opponents on the counter.
    The old maestro Toni Kroos is pulling the strings.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
    50. Hungary are showing a little more attacking intent at the start of the second half.
    They realise a second defeat would leave them with a huge uphill task in Group A.
    Copy linkCopiedGermany 1-0 Hungary
    48. Each of the German defence take turns in forgetting how to kick a football following a throw in across their own goal.
    There were shades of Italy’s start against Albania there, although no Hungarian player was able to take advantage.
    Copy linkCopied More

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    Germany 2 Hungary 0: Hosts first team through to Euro 2024 last 16 as captain Gundogan scores one and sets up another

    GERMANY are in the pink – and they are the first team into the last 16 of Euro 2024.Sporting their popular new away kit despite hosting the tournament, coach Julian Nagelsmann’s team made it two wins from two in Group A.Germany continued their perfect start to Euro 2024Credit: GettyHungary look destined for an early flight homeCredit: APEven though the final placings are still up for grabs, with six points in the bag and a goal difference of plus six, there is no way the home team is going out in the group stage.That might sound routine for three times European champions but recent struggles means it is a signal that the boys from Berlin are back.In two of the last three major tournaments they have crashed out in the group stage.But while this was significantly harder work than brushing Scotland aside 5-1 in last Friday’s tournament opener, it is job done as far as restoring belief is concerned.READ MORE IN EURO 2024EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYThat was coach Nagelsmann’s main concern before a ball was kicked. On the back of this result in Stuttgart, he can tick that off.Jamal Musiala put Germany ahead in the 22nd minute and the 21-year-old now has a goal in each of his Euro games.The former Chelsea academy forward was perfectly positioned inside the box to collect a pass from captain Ilkay Gundogan and poke the ball in with a drilled finish.And the one-time England youth team pal of Jude Bellingham went agonisingly close with a shot on the stroke of half time.Most read in Euro 2024Jamal Musiala is now the top scorer in Euro 2024Credit: EPAEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSBut the victory was just as much, if not more down to the stunning athleticism of veteran keeper Manuel Neuer.Neuer, 38, is likely playing in his last international tournament. But before and after Germany took the lead, he kept Hungary at bay.How hosts Germany look to return to their best for Euro 2024Twice in the first half he made superb reaction saves.One was from Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai from a spectacular, curling free kick that was heading for the top corner.And barely a minute into the game he defied Bendeguz Boila from close range when Germany cocked up their kick off routine and surrendered possession within four seconds of the first whistle.Captain Gundogan – formerly of Manchester City – added the second goal that sealed victory when he neatly turned in a cut back from left back Max Mittelstadt with 23 minutes to go.Gundogan also provided the assist for Musiala’s first half strike and was rewarded with a standing ovation when he was subbed in the second half.Germany face Switzerland in their final group game on Sunday. Their new kit has only been worn three times in total now and is the fastest selling in history.Ilkay Gundogan netted and provided an assist in a dominant performanceCredit: Getty More

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    Netherlands vs France – Euro 2024: Group D titans go to battle with Mbappe expected to miss huge clash – team news

    WHEN giants collide, sparks fly. And that is exactly what we will be hoping for once again when the Netherlands take on France this Friday.Wout Weghorst was the hero for the Netherlands against PolandCredit: AFPFrance will likely be without Kylian Mbappe for the gameCredit: GettyThe two nations favoured to progress from Group D will lock horns with the hopes of topping the group.Both sides came away with victories in their opening games and can take control of the group with a win here. The Netherlands triumphed 2-1 over Poland after Wout Weghorst made his mark from the bench after 83 minutes.Their performance was not becoming of a team who represent total football, with sloppy finishing their main Achilles heel, but getting off to a good start was the main concern in the game.Read more on Euro 2024Meanwhile, France laboured to a 1-0 win over a tough Austria team courtesy of an own goal from Max Wober.Kylian Mbappe’s dangerous wing play and cross left Wober with no chance to react as the ball pinged off his head and into the net, but France are not expected to have their trump card for this game.That is because Mbappe suffered a broken nose against Austria.While he is expected to return for their final group match against Poland, game two will likely come too soon for the new Real Madrid star.Most read in Euro 2024EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSNetherlands Euro 2024 guideRONALD KOEMAN has overhauled Holland’s playing style after returning for a second stint in charge.
    Captain Virgil van Dijk will be expected to be a stalwart in defence while Xavi Simons will be hoping for a breakout tournament. But they may miss injured Frenkie de Jong.
    MANAGER: Ronald Koeman
    Ex-Barcelona and Everton boss was the scourge of England as a player when he knocked Graham Taylor’s side out of World Cup qualifying in 1994.
    STAR MAN: Virgil van Dijk
    Liverpool star has won everything there is to win at club level and will be counted on to keep things tight at the back.
    How Holland attack
    The Netherlands will play with a typically Dutch patient possession-based build-up.
    They will stagger their positions to play through the lines, but can be overly individualistic in the final third.
    How Holland defend
    The Dutch will play with a medium block, allowing the opposition to break the first line before engaging in the midfield area.
    They can run into problems when they fail to protect the middle of the pitch.
    Read the full Netherlands 2024 guide here, including predicted line-ups, odds and Wags

    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.

    What does their form look like?The Netherlands have won eight of their last ten games.The only blots on their record have come against France and Germany.France have lost just two of their last ten games, which included a win over the Netherlands, won six.However, those two defeats both came against Germany, who themselves had an impressive start to the tournament.Les Blues also have a major head-to-head advantage in their favour, winning six of the last seven games between the nations.Overall, France have 16 wins to 11 in their favour, with another three draws between them.What is the team news and any injuries to worry about?For the Oranje there are no fresh injury concerns, only the selection dilemmas of whether to start Weghorst up front or to change up personnel out wide. The likes of Jeremie Frimpong and Donyall Malen looked dangerous off the bench so may be moved in to offer a more dynamic threat than what Xavi Simons offered in the first match.The big news for France is the likely absence of Mbappe.It throws up the question of who will replace him, and the potential answer to that could be Kinglsey Coman or Randal Kolo Muani.Didier Deschamps has the option to move Marcus Thuram up front in place of Mbappe while adding Coman on to the wing.Alternatively, Thuram could remain on the wing with Kolo Muani up front, or possibly even old favourite Olivier Giroud.Who will be the star men?Virgil van DijkCaptain Virgil van Dijk will be tasked with keeping a clean sheet against one of the best attacks in the world, even without Mbappe.He largely impressed against Poland in the opener, and his experience will be needed to ensure the Dutch have a chance this game.N’Golo KanteTalking of experience, there are not many with more than ex-Chelsea and Leicester star N’Golo Kante.He is back in the national team after a two-year absence, but his engine is enough to dominate any midfield battle in world football, and with potentially no Mbappe for France his role will be even more important.What have the managers said?Netherlands manager Ronald Koeman bemoaned his sides missed chances against Poland and said they were “lucky” to get away with it.He said: “It should have been 4-1 to us after an hour. We played very well but were not able to find the net. “It was dangerous for us but we were lucky and we scored a second goal… I think the final result increased our confidence today.”He added: “I’ve not been thinking of the next line-up, it’s weird to think about that, we’ve just finished this match.”I don’t know the line-up for the next match. We had to play for about an hour, then we tried with Donyell and Jeremie, fast and pacy. We decided we wanted to have new players like Donyell and Jeremie.”France have more qualities than Poland, they play with a different style, spaces will be different. That match of course we want to win as well, we want to beat them and that will be our focus.”Dutch boss Ronald Koeman said his team were ‘lucky’ against PolandCredit: GettyFrance boss Didier Deschamps called on his players to improve in certain areasCredit: GettyDeschamps was pleased enough with the opening win, even if he admitted they could have done better.He said: “It’s always good to start off with a win against an opponent that is very good, with a lot of athletic qualities, who put a lot of pressure on us.”We could have managed certain situations better, but overall I would assess the match as a positive. “We had to fight. And this is important. We need to keep that up for the rest of the tournament. “I’m satisfied with our first victory. We have 36 hours now to recuperate. “I don’t think the computer was very nice to us.”SunSport predictionFrance could find it difficult to find the back of the net without their talisman, though we expect that talent to still come to the fore.That being said, the Dutch are no pushovers and will make a fair go of it, we just don’t see them having enough to get a result.Netherlands 1-2 FranceWhen is Netherlands vs France?
    France’s huge game against the Netherlands will take place on Friday, June 21.
    The clash will kick off at 8pm BST.
    The Red Bull Arena in Leipzig, Germany will host the Group D match.
    What channel is it and can it be live streamed?
    Netherlands vs France will be shown live on BBC One in the UK.
    You can live stream the action on the BBC iPlayer, which is available for download onto your mobile or tablet device.
    Can I watch for FREE?Yes, the game is available to watch for FREE on BBC One and the iPlayer, so long as you have a valid TV licence. READ MORE SUN STORIESOdds
    Netherlands – 16/5
    Draw – 13/5
    France – 10/11
    *Odds courtesy of William Hill and correct at time of publication.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY More

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    Scotland vs Switzerland LIVE RESULT: Tartan Army secure vital point but left to rue missed chances – latest updates

    SCOTLAND drew with Switzerland in their second group game at Euro 2024. Scott McTominay opened the scoring via a deflection off Newcastle defender Fabian Schar to send the Scotland end into bedlam. But ex-Prem cult hero Xherdan Shaqiri equalised with a brilliant goal, curling in from outside of the box.
    Kick-off time: 8pm BST
    Stream/TV: BBC One/BBC iPlayer
    Scotland XI: Gunn; Ralston, Hendry, Hanley, Tierney; Robertson, McGinn, McGregor, Gilmour, McTominay; Adams
    Switzerland XI: Sommer; Widmer, Akanji, Schar; Rodriguez, Freuler, Xhaka, Ndoye; Vargas, Aebischer, Shaqiri
    EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSThat’s all from Cologne
    Day six of Euro 2024 is over – but Scotland’s campaign is not.
    Steve Clarke’s men and the Tartan Army are still dreaming of the knockout stage after a battling 1-1 draw against Switzerland.
    The Scots’ first point of the Championship has them in third place ahead of Hungary, who they play on Sunday in Stuttgart; win and they have a great chance of making it to the Last 16.
    Attention turns to England tomorrow with the Three Lions facing Denmark in Frankfurt at 5pm.
    We’ll be back with all the action plus live coverage of Slovenia verus Serbia, and Spain against Italy.
    See you then. Goodnight,

    Copy linkCopiedScotland showing brings rare Clarke smile
    It’s not often that Steve Clarke affords himself a laugh and a joke with a pitchside reporter, but the Scotland head coach was all smiles with Eilidh Barbour as he analysed his side’s draw with Switzerland.
    We didn’t turn up in the first game, but we’re a good team when we play. You have to put the first game off as a really bad night. Tonight we were determined to make sure we went pressing, after the ball and higher up the pitch. And it was against a very good Switzerland side, I have to say.Steve ClarkeBBC

    Copy linkCopiedShaq back to punish Scotland
    Fans and followers of Scotland are rightly praising a much-improved performance, but know deep down that it could have been so much better had Anthony Ralston’s misplaced pass not fallen at the feet of Xherdan Shaqiri.
    The 32-year-old was back in the Switzerland side this evening, and rolled back the years with an incredible finish just inside the top left corner of Angus Gunn’s goal.
    In scoring, Shaqiri has become the only European player to have scored in each of the last six major tournaments since the 2014 World Cup.
    And by netting in those, the former Stoke and Liverpool star has scored in twice as many competitions as any other Swiss player in history,

    Copy linkCopiedRobertson: Performance more like us
    Scotland captain Andy Robertson saluted his teammates for the committed showing they put in, just five days after their mauling in Munich.
    The Liverpool defender admitted that Switzerland had their chances, but insisted he was delighted with the intensity and intent the Scots showed across 90 minutes.
    That was much more like us. We were aggressive, on the front foot and couldn’t have got off to a better start. We had our chances but so did they.Andy RobertsonBBC Sport

    Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from Cologne Stadium
    The very essence of a tight contest.

    Copy linkCopiedRejuvenated Scots make their point
    Scotland are off the mark in Group A with a hard-fought point against the Swiss, and now have a huge opportunity when they play Hungary next; win that and they could likely qualify in third place.
    Credit: uefa.com
    Copy linkCopiedFull time – Scotland 1-1 Switzerland
    It’s all over in Cologne!
    A intense, nail-biting 90 minutes comes to a close; Scotland are bruised and battered, but still alive.
    Steve Clarke affords himself a fist bump before embracing counterpart Murat Yakin, and the mission is now clear: beat Hungary.

    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    90+2. Scotland are pushing hard in stoppage time, but the ball just won’t fall kindly for them.
    A Robertson header across the face of the goal has a nation on its feet, but nobody in blue can get themselves on the end of it.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    90. Amdoui gets up and must score! Wide!
    Rieder’s free-kick from the right is met by the perfect fun of the Swiss substitute, who looks certain to head in a last-minute winner.
    Somehow, it bounces up and wide of the far post with Angus Gunn stranded.
    A huge moment at the end of his contest!

    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    88. Robertson fouls Rieder on the near touchline, and Switzerland have the opportunity to pack the penalty area.
    The Scotland fans inside the stadium can’t bare to look.

    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – Switzerland double substitution
    86. That’s the end of the night for Dan Ndoye, who departs with four shots and a disallowed goal to his name.
    Also off is Silvan Widmer with Burnley forward Zeki Amdouni on along with defender Leonidas Stergiou.
    Copy linkCopied Scotland 1-1 Switzerland – Sierro yellow card
    84. Che Adams has been on the receiving end of a few kicks this evening, and this latest one leaves him sprawled out on the pitch.
    It earns Swiss midfielder Vincent Sierro a yellow card.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    82. Breel Embolo breaks through from halfway, and finishes beautifully over Angus Gunn!
    But the flag is up on the near side and the striker’s celebrations are cut short.
    The immediate consensus was that the sub had gone too early, but – once again – replays show the decision was much closer than first assumed.
    It would have been cruel on Scotland, especially as it came seconds after Scott McTominay’s volley in the other box had been blocked at close quarters.

    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    80. Into the final ten minutes, and this is so finely poised.
    One moment of magic could win it.
    More worryingly, one lapse in concentration could lose it.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    78. Dan Ndoye tries his luck again, but he’s no closer to finding the target. If anything, his shots are getting further away.
    Still, the forward is a constant danger, and cannot be afforded such space.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    76. McKenna fouls again. The sub will have to be careful considering his earlier booking.
    Meanwhile, Gilmour gets up inside the area for a cross, but comes off second best in his duel with Schar.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – Switzerland double substitution
    74. A double change for the Swiss.
    Off goes the dangerous Ruben Vargas and midfielder Remo Freuler. The duo are replaced by Vincent Sierro and Fabian Rieder.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – McGinn yellow card
    72. Now John McGinn goes into Ivan Kruzliak’s book.
    The midfielder is cautioned for leaving one on Fabian Schar after the Swiss defender sent a long ball upfield.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    70. Euro 2024 has been brilliant so far. Six days packed full of thrilling games, wonderful football and outstanding goals.
    But on the whole, the set-pieces have been rubbish.
    Andy Robertson is the latest culprit, faltering again with another right-wing corner.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – McKenna yellow card
    69. Scotland substitute Scott McKenna goes into the book for fouling Breel Embolo.
    It’s an unsteady start for the defender, but at least stopped what could have resulted in a swift Swiss counter.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    67. Hanley heads against the post!
    Robertson’s free-kick on this occasion is perfect, floated perfectly into the six-yard box where Hanley had wrestled from Schar.
    The defender only had to keep it on target to score but instead helps it on to the woodwork.
    Was that the moment?
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    65. Scott McTominay beats Manuel Akanji to the ball just to the right of the Switzerland penalty area, and wins a free-kick in a dangerous position.
    Victory to United in the Manchester derby.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    63. Scotland need to refocus themselves on the job at hand.
    Still adjusting to Tierney’s injury, they find themselves up against it as Vargas skips inside from the left wing and smashes wide with his right foot.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland – Scotland and Switzerland substitutions
    61. Scott McKenna is on in place of the stricken Tierney and will slot into the back three.
    Meanwhile, another player who knows about distressing injuries is Breel Embolo.
    The striker, out for most of last season after rupturing his ACL, is on for goalscorer Xherdan Shaqiri.
    Copy linkCopiedScotland 1-1 Switzerland
    60. It’s a sad sight for Scotland, and for football fans everywhere.
    Kieran Tierney departs the pitch on a stretcher with his hands covering his face, visibly distraught at his setback.
    It’s the latest in a long line of injury concerns for such a classy performer, and he is surely set for another spell on the sidelines.

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    James Maddison’s Wag stuns in bikini and cowboy hat on glamorous holiday after Tottenham star’s England Euro 2024 axe

    KENNEDY ALEXA stretched the imagination of her eager fans as the bikini-clad model labelled herself a “cowgirl”.But although it didn’t take true grit to pose in the exotic waters of Turks And Caicos, James Maddison’s partner did look in magnificent heaven.Kennedy Alexa didn’t look much like a ‘cowgirl’ except for one accessoryCredit: instagram @kennedyalexaThe model looked proud to show off her figureCredit: instagram @kennedyalexaKennedy had twins with partner Maddison last JulyCredit: InstagramShe was praised for sharing bikini pics just months after giving birthCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexaKennedy wore a cowboy hat as she posed for front and side snaps in the coral island resort close to the Bahamas.It looked just the type of idyllic escape that might help Tottenham playmaker Maddison get over his omission from England’s Euro 2024 squad.Kennedy took that dreamy setting a step further by posting pics in the crystal-clear Atlantic Ocean wearing a thong bikini under the shade of her wide-brimmed hat.”Long live cowgirls,” she told her 69,000 Instagram followers.READ MORE TOP STORIESThe glamorous pictures with a slight Western theme made her fans giddy – if not quite giddy up.”Yes mam!!!” whooped one enthusiast, while another called Kennedy “the prettiest cowgirl”.Her choice of Turks And Caicos, a British Overseas Territory, also drew praise as fast as a gunslinger whips out their weapons.One fan raved: “One of my favourite places ever.”MOST READ IN FOOTBALLEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYMeet England’s Euro 2024 Wags
    England Wags range from childhood sweethearts to recently blossoming love stories.
    Katie Goodland (Harry Kane’s wife)
    The fitness instructor has been married to the England captain since 2019 and joined him in Germany with their four children after he joined Bayern Munich.
    Laura Celia Valk (Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend)
    The stunning Dutch model, 25, has more than half a million Instagram followers and is said to be absolutely smitten with the Real Madrid star.
    Rebecca Cooke (Phil Foden’s girlfriend)
    Foden’s childhood sweetheart and the mother of his two kids tends to keep out of the spotlight, but is a regular at England games.
    Dani Dyer (Jarrod Bowen’s girlfriend)
    England’s most famous Wag, former Love Island winner and daughter of Eastenders’ Danny Dyer.
    Iris Law (Trent Alexander-Arnold’s girlfriend)
    Dani Dyer isn’t the only actor’s daughter dating an England star. Iris’ dad is Hollywood legend Jude Law.
    Megan Davison (Jordan Pickford’s wife)
    Megan has been with Pickford since he was 14 years old. The couple married in 2022 and have one son.
    Olivia Naylor (John Stones’ girlfriend)
    The 33-year-old former beautician has stepped back from her role after giving birth to a baby son.
    Read more about the Wags who will be supporting England at Euro 2024 here

    Meanwhile, assessments of Kennedy included: “You’re so stunning” … “Bodyyyyyy” … and “so gorgeous”.She also won praise last summer for sharing bikini photos soon after giving birth to twins.Meet the ten Wags ready to stun at Euro 2024Rome and Delilah were born in July 2023, three years after the birth of their first child, Leo.Kennedy was called “such an inspiration” for showing her stretch marks.In a long message on social media, she revealed she had been “learning to love my new body”.Kennedy added: “I keep reminding myself of the positives and how I’m SO grateful for how my body carried and nurtured 3 healthy babies….and two at once!!!”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.

    She gave birth to twins Delilah and Rome last year, with the couple already having a son named LeoCredit: https://www.instagram.com/kennedyalexa/?hl=enKennedy has neasrly 70,000 followers on InstagramCredit: InstagramFans called Kennedy the Wag ‘queen’ after this picCredit: Instagram @kennedyalexaIt’s understood the couple began dating in 2020Credit: Instagram / @kennedyalexa More

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    Kylian Mbappe spotted for first time with nose protector after France star’s worrying injury against Austria

    KYLIAN MBAPPE has been spotted for the first time with a nose protector on as he returned to training following his broken nose.France defeated Austria 1-0 to kick off their Euro 2024 campaign on Monday – but the win came at a cost.Kylian Mbappe has been spotted wearing his nose protectorCredit: ReutersThe French captain was covered in blood after breaking his nose against AustriaCredit: GettyThe star has not undergone surgery yet while French chiefs try to get him a specialised maskCredit: AFPMbappe looks certain to miss Friday’s game with Netherlands due to the injuryCredit: ReutersStar man Mbappe, 25, was forced off late on after suffering a broken nose following a horror collision with defender Kevin Danso that left him covered in blood.The forward – who has joined Real Madrid – was rushed to hospital straight after the game as fears mounted of the French talisman.But he was seen training individually for the most part of Les Bleus session on Wednesday before taking part in a finishing drill with his fellow forwards.Mbappe was wearing a strap across his broken nose and did not take part in any parts of training which involved contact.READ MORE ON EURO 2024France are still sourcing a specially made mask for their talisman, who is not expected to take part in Friday night’s clash with the Netherlands.Manager Didier Deschamps has confirmed that tests will continue to be carried out and that, while surgery was not necessarily immediately after the incident, it will have to happen at some point.The France boss said: “Even if there is not surgery immediately, he will have to do it after the tournament.“This morning he was already a little better, so we will see.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS“We will follow it closely every day.”Despite losing their talisman, there is confidence France can continue – with midfielder Adrien Rabiot backing those lower down the pecking order to step up.He said: “A fractured nose isn’t the end of the world so he should be with us pretty soon.“Playing without Kylian could be tough, he is a very important player, the captain.“It will have an impact on us but for the opponents it will be a different way for them to play their game.EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY“We definitely want him to play but looking at who we have on the bench we have what it takes to replace Kylian.“We have to count on the group.“If he is not there then it is going to be more tough but I trust the great players we have on the team.”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