Euro 2024

ENGLAND could finally get a first chance to take on Lionel Messi’s Argentina if they can lift the Euro 2024 crown on Sunday.Uefa and their South American counterparts joined forces to relaunch the “Conmebol–Uefa Cup of Champions” in 2020.Lionel Messi could finally face England if they win Euro 2024 on SundayCredit: GettyJude Bellingham and the Three Lions will face the Copa America winners if they beat SpainCredit: GettyIt was a replacement for the old Artemio Franchi Cup, created in 1985 when France beat Uruguay and then played just once more, when Argentina ousted Denmark on penalties in Mar del Plata, before being abolished.But as part of a 10-year “Memorandum of Understanding” between the two confederations, it was agreed that the champions of both continents would meet.In 2022, Argentina thrashed Italy 3-0 at Wembley in what was branded the “Finalissima”.A year later, England’s triumphant Lionesses saw off Brazil on penalties, also under the Arch.READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSUefa insiders confirmed that it is planned that the Euro 2024 winners will meet the Copa America title holders next summer.That match will be played in Europe, rather than South America, although the venue has not been confirmed.And if England do beat Spain, they would face either Argentina or Colombia, who meet in Miami in the early hours of Monday morning.If the 2022 World Cup winners are victorious, that could finally mean England taking on Messi, who was an unused member of the Argentine squad when the sides last met, in Geneva in 2005.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSEngland vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain.If the match is held next summer, it would make Lionel Messi 38 years old when he takes on the Three Lions for the first time.It is unclear if Messi will continue to play for his nation after the Copa America but if he does want to stay on until the 2026 World Cup he would be expected to play in the next Finalissima.Watch shocking moment Liverpool and Uruguay star Darwin Nunez fights off fans to save family from ‘drunken supporters’ More

ERLING Haaland and Phil Foden can tell the England squad that Euro 2024 Final referee Francois Letexier packs a punch.But what else is there to know about the man who holds the fate of the Three Lions in his whistle in Berlin on Sunday?French referee Francois Letexier is taking charge of Sunday’s finalCredit: EPAErling Haaland was unhappy when Letexier accidentally caught himCredit: TNT SportsSun Sport reveals the man behind the cards.So, who is he, then?Letexier is just 35, from Brittany, and with a young son. He was the youngest referee in Ligue 1 when he was appointed in 2016 and promoted to the Fifa list only a year later. That’s quick going – anything else about him?Well, actually, yes. While refereeing is his main job, he’s used to sending people down as well as sending them off – his part-time role is as a court bailiff, saying: “It helps me keep a good life balance.”READ MORE ENGLAND NEWSOkay – but what’s this Haaland stuff?Letexier inflamed Manchester City’s Norwegian ace during the 3-3 Champions League quarter-final first leg draw at Real Madrid. England vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain.BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThe referee was locked in a “disagreement” with Madrid’s Dani Carvajal in the first half of that match when he gestured towards the City goal. Unfortunately, Haaland was walking past, catching a backhand slap in the face. Fair to say he wasn’t a happy bunny.Letexier tried to apologise to Man City hero HaalandCredit: TNT SportsSunSport’s Latest Euro 2024 headlinesYes but that was an accident. Has there been anything else to talk about?Quite a few things, actually. Both in France and internationally.Most read in Euro 2024In October 2022 he made a series of controversial calls in a Ligue 1 match between Nice and Nantes, with the home side the beneficiary of spot kick decisions in both boxes. After dismissing Nantes’ Kader Bamba and keeper Alban Lafont he received death threats on social media.Two months earlier he issued FOUR red cards to St Etienne – three players and a coaching staff member – in a Ligue 2 match with Le Havre.But no issues with English teams then?Nope. But a big one with an English manager.In December he became embroiled in a strange spat with then-Reims boss Will Still, who accused him of making “inappropriate” comments.Still had been targeted by Sunderland as a potential replacement for Tony Mowbray and wanted to quiz Letexier over some of the decisions in a 2-0 defeat by Lens.The Englishman claimed Letexier responded: “Don’t worry, it (the refereeing) will be better in England.”Still added: “I found it funny, or not funny at all. I didn’t find it very appropriate, but it’s not a story, it’s not interesting.” Letexier subsequently claimed he had been misinterpreted. After leaving Reims, Still eventually signed for…Lens.Anything else?Oh yes. May’s intercontinental Olympic play-off between Indonesia and Guinea in Clairefontaine saw Letexier award two penalties to the African side, including the match-winner when the foul was outside the box, while also sending off the Indonesia coach.Are there any reasons to think he could be a good luck charm?Maybe. Letexier also took charge of last season’s Uefa Super Cup Final between City and Sevilla, when the Prem champions won on penalties after  Cole Palmer’s second-half equaliser. Kyle Walker scored City’s final penalty while the team included Phil Foden, with John Stones on the bench. Then again, it also included Rodri….Kobbie Mainoo: From work experience kid to England hero… and latest generational talentBy Charlie WyettAND we all thought England had just the one generational talent.Kobbie Mainoo was effectively brought to Germany as a work experience kid but has emerged as the key kid behind this country’s attempt to rewrite history.After just five senior starts, England’s new boy wonder will now have a teenage tear-up against Spain’s Lamine Yamal in the Euro 2024 final.Last night, he did not merely become England’s youngest ever player to feature in a semi-final of a major tournament, aged 19 years and 82 days.Here, he took this semi-final by the scruff of the neck, delivered a performance which was a joy to watch, particularly in the first half, and now England are in their first final on foreign soil.If Jude Bellingham thought he was certain to be England’s main posterboy over the next decade, he has someone else who has now emerged in his rear-view mirror within just a few weeks.To bag an FA Cup winners’ medal at the age of 19 was impressive. To then win Euro 2024 a couple of months later would be extraordinary.As we saw with Manchester United, Mainoo has now fitted seamlessly into the team and provided a perfect mix of both style and substance.Give it a couple of years, and you can only imagine how good this lad is going to be.For much of this tournament, the focus has been on the disappointing form of Harry Kane, Bellingham and Phil Foden.So Mainoo, to a degree, had almost been off the radar. But against the Dutch, in tight, congested spaces, he is a class apart.When he was put under pressure, remained cool, navigated his way out of difficult situations and drove forward.Despite what was at stake, Mainoo once again looked extraordinarily composed and was England’s best player in the first half. He won possession, he rode tackles and he drove forward like an old master.He nearly delivered an assist at 1-1 with some brilliant play. He received the ball from Foden, turned and drove forward before returning the ball to his team-mate but the shot was hacked off the line by Denzel Dumfries.Mainoo delivered a terrific block to snuff out some serious danger in a lightning-quick Dutch counter attack.In the second half, he had less space in midfield but nevertheless still had bags of energy and kept his discipline positionally – and then he let subs Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins deliver the business.It is still mind-boggling that Mainoo is now heading to Berlin on Sunday, when you consider Mainoo only made his United debut against Charlton in the Carabao Cup in January 2023. His first Premier League start was just eight months ago.Yet it was his dazzling midfield form in an otherwise dysfunctional United team which earned him his first cap as a substitute against Brazil in March. He was then Man of the Match in a ridiculously-good performance in the 2-2 draw with Belgium.Mainoo’s form dipped in the last few weeks of the season. It was probably because he was knackered carrying some of his team-mates. But he then saved them again in the FA Cup final against Manchester City with a Man of the Match performance in a 2-1 win.A bit like Adam Wharton, he was part of England’s 26-man squad to soak up the experience, to learn what it is like to feature in a major tournament and maybe, if needed, to have a few cameo roles off the bench.And the fact he was effectively Southgate’s third-choice to partner Declan Rice here in Germany tells you exactly where he stood in a squad of 26.The Trent Alexander-Arnold midfield failed in the two opening games against Serbia and Denmark. Conor Gallagher – despite some bright performances as a sub in those games – really struggled in his start against Slovenia.Apart from a strong appearance as a substitute by Palmer, Mainoo’s performance against Slovakia was the only bright spot in a dismal and extremely fortunate win over Slovakia in the last 16.There was always a worry about Mainoo’s movement when England do not have possession but that will come with experience, like it would for any other central midfielder.Yet Mainoo has solved the problem for Southgate and now England can continue to dream big. And it is totally unthinkable from where you consider how they played in the group stages when they stunk out Germany.In Sunday’s final, England’s experienced players will be able to draw on the pain of both the 2018 World Cup and Euro 2020.For Mainoo, this will be a completely new experience but do not expect him to wilt. He’ll absolutely love it.–READ MORE SUN STORIES-England vs Netherlands Player Ratings More

OLLIE WATKINS hilariously called out England legend David Beckham for not tagging him on Instagram following his last-gasp winner against Netherlands.Aston Villa striker Watkins, 28, produced a moment of magic to send Gareth Southgate’s men into a final against Spain in Berlin with a 90th-minute strike.Ollie Watkins scored a last-gasp winner for England against NetherlandsCredit: ReutersWatkins reacted on Lions’ Den to David Beckham’s post about himCredit: YouTube/EnglandBeckham sent his congratulations to Watkins after his last-gasp strike in the semi-finalCredit: GettyBeckham shared this post on his Instagram story on Wednesday eveningCredit: InstagramAfter the game, ex-England captain Beckham posted on his Instagram story: “That’s why they call it a TEAM.”What a moment ❤️. 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿 Well done Ollie @england.”Watkins, who appeared on Lions’ Den, was grateful for the shout-out but also joked about Beckham not tagging him.He said: “Any chance of a tag? Send him my [Instagram handle].”READ MORE ON EURO 2024But after a playful comment, he then went on to sincerely thank the former Manchester United man.He added: “I had his boots [as a kid], I had his preds [predators].”It’s nice that he can do that [send me a message]. Obviously he scored a memorable goal [the free-kick against Greece], so now I’ve done something similar – [but] I think his was better.”Watkins had played just 20 minutes at the Euros before he came off the bench against the Dutch.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSInside humble Ollie Watkins’ remarkable rise from non-league to England’s Euro 2024 heroNINE summers ago Ollie Watkins went on a lads’ holiday after helping to save Conference South side Weston-Super-Mare from relegation, writes Dan King.Now he’s just fired England into the Euro 2024 final with a sensational 90th-minute winner.And even helped Aston Villa qualify for the Champions League last season.Watkins arrived on the Somerset coast as a teenaged striker on loan from League Two Exeter in December 2014.His 10 goals in 24 league games were a big factor in stopping Weston from slipping into the sixth tier for the first time in their history – and in giving them something to celebrate on a post-season trip to Spain.But it was also his workrate and attitude that earned him the respect of the dressing room, and helped him take the first significant steps on the road to stardom.Ryan Northmore, boss of Weston at the time, said: “His goals saved the club from relegation. But he contributed much more than his goals, which is really important when you’re scrapping away for your lives.“He wasn’t just sat at the top of the pitch waiting for the ball to come. He would roll his sleeves up and get involved in all aspects of the game.”Days after joining, Watkins made an instant impact with an equaliser against Farnborough.Team-mate Tom Jordan said: “He always struck me as the kind of lad who had his eyes wide open to different aspects of the game.“Sometimes you would have loan lads come in from a League club to non-League and they would be looking at you like they were doing you a favour.“His attitude was very different. He was coming in thinking, ‘I’m going to learn from this experience’.”It was during Watkins’ spell at Weston that the then Walsall boss Dean Smith spotted him.Smith would later take the striker to Brentford and bring him to Villa, where he has reached new levels under current boss Unai Emery.But Watkins has never forgotten the part that Weston played in his rise to the top.One of his Villa shirts is on display there, he has spoken to young players coming through and happily tells the local press how important and enjoyable his time at the club was.And he even helped fund an end-of-season boys’ trip to Spain due to his fines for being late – although he was allowed to join the rest of the squad.Read all about Ollie Watkins’ incredible rise in full…But he scored within nine minutes of being brought on to send England to Berlin.Watkins’ mum Delsi-May called on Southgate to play her son after their quarter-final win over Switzerland.England vs Netherlands Player RatingsAnd following his special goal, the Villa forward revealed he had predicted his winning moment.Watkins, who was assisted by Cole Palmer, said: “The ball came into me, hold up is not the strongest side of my game but the goal was my bread and butter.”I said to Cole Palmer we were both going to go on the pitch and he would set me up and it happened.”You don’t get that opportunity very often and I had to be greedy and take the shot. I don’t think I have hit the ball so sweet like that before.”You can say it hasn’t been pretty, but England are in the final… and we’re peaking at just the right time, says Jack WilshereAFTER what has been a tough tournament of times, what an opportunity Gareth Southgate and his team will have to end in the best possible way, writes Jack Wilshere.We might like a team that played better football. But it’s a results business.Germany, Italy, France, Portugal and of course Holland would love to be where we are.People will say we’re lucky because we’re on this side of the draw.But we won the group. France didn’t and then ran into Spain.You can say it wasn’t that pretty, but we’re there.Gareth and his coaches won’t have been happy with some of the performances.But I did like the way Gareth and his team have dealt with it.There was no panic coming out of the camp.Everyone gave the same message: ‘We know we can better, but we’re here still.’And on Sunday they will be in Berlin to play Spain.They will probably have to produce two halves of football as good as the first against Holland to beat them.We have improved as the tournament has gone on and that is how you win things.You want to peak in the final.If Gareth can lead England to that major trophy we’ve all been waiting for, it will be the perfect answer to the critics and a brilliant day for us all.Read Jack Wilshere’s England vs Holland verdict in full.Or check out all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euros 2024 opinions… More

ENGLAND fans have jokingly vowed to turn Benidorm into a battleground as they flock to the popular island for the Euros final.The Three Lions’ supporters who have been priced out of grabbing tickets to Germany are now racing to Spain instead.Fans of England after the semi-final match between Netherlands and England at Football Stadium DortmundCredit: GettyAround 50,000 fans are expected to fly to Berlin for the final matchCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)England supporters celebrating the Three Lions’ victory in Benidorm yesterdayCredit: ReutersFootie fans who can’t get to Berlin plan to take over the Spanish resortCredit: GettyEngland progressed to the final of Euro 2024 on after a phenomenal last-minute goal from Ollie Watkins on Wednesday night.But as up to 50,000 fans scramble to make it to Berlin ahead of Sunday’s match, flights have swiftly soared up in price.EasyJet and Ryanair flights from UK airports to Berlin between Thursday and Sunday are already sold out.The remaining EasyJet flights going from Gatwick to Berlin in the next few days are priced at a whopping £918.read more on Euro 2024However, sharp-witted England fans who want to watch the game in a more serene setting have devised a new strategy.England supporters are planning to head to Benidorm to turn the final match night into a “derby”.Hundreds of England supporters are expected to spill on the streets of the resort despite Spain’s draconian alcohol regulations.EasyJet is currently offering flights to the well-known Suntrap for as little as £179.Most read in Euro 2024Fans took to social media to share their enthusiasm about “retaking” Benidorm after the final whistle, should England win.One person wrote on X, former Twitter: “England vs. Spain. The winner keeps Benidorm.”From agony to ecstasy – England fans go wild as Three Lions advance to Euro 2024 final with victory over NetherlandsAnother said: “Benidorm will look like the last days of Rome on Sunday.”One man joked: “A sensible country would airlift British citizens out of Benidorm before Sunday. “Either result guarantees a reasonable amount of rioting.”Someone else wrote: “Battle of Benidorm on Sunday.”England vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain.Fans unable to travel to Germany have increasingly turned their attention to the hotspot popular amongst British holidaymakers.Videos of England supporters dancing on the streets of Benidorm have gone viral online following matches throughout the tournament.However, some celebrations have been less peaceful with a raging driver going on a punching rampage attacking rowdy England fans last week.And yesterday hordes of police – in a protective gear and equipped with shields – could be seen surrounding the areas where England fans gathered.One video posted online showed the throng of cops and police cars fill the streets in a bid to prevent brawls between fans.One person wrote on X: “Witnessed first hand exactly what happened.”Police were parked in side streets, as soon as final whistle went white helmets on, shields came out, blue lights switched on, and they drove into the crowds of supporters leaving the bars!”Everyone was in good spirits up to that point!”Meanwhile, after casting their ballots, members of the England Supporters Travel Club now endure a torturous wait to find out if they are chosen later today.A few hundred gold dust tickets are due to go on sale on the UEFA website this week, with the FA having just 10,000 tickets to sell.Many expect the 40,000 fans from Wednesday’s game in Dortmund to be after tickets once more as well 10,000 extras looking to be part of history.However, even for those who do obtain legal tickets, Berlin has been ramping up hotel rates and flight tickets.Accommodation prices in Berlin have rocketed with a one-night stay at a Holiday Inn in the German capital costing £345 on Sunday night.British Airways is also charging £782 to fly from Heathrow to Berlin on Saturday night.Fans desperate to watch England potentially get their hands on international silverware for the first time since 1966 will also be forced to stump up enough cash for re-sale tickets.Ticket prices for Sunday’s final flew up on the re-sale market with the best seat selling for an incredible £78,000-a-pair as others hit £32,852-a-pair.England overcame the Dutch in the semi-final at the Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday in a monumental game for Southgate’s side.The Dutch had started the match the better of the two as Simons gave them the lead in the 7th minute.Harry Kane levelled the match 11 minutes later from the spot after he won a controversial penalty.And it was Watkins who was the hero as he fired in the winner in the final moments of the match.The winning goal sent fans, players and coaching staff into wild celebrations.Even England’s Dutch coach Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was swept up in the moment before realising it came against his native country.Pundits Gary Neville and Ian Wright went wild in the ITV studio while Roy Keane remained his composed self.England will face Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Spanish reached the final by dumping out France in the first semi-final 2-1.Randal Kolo Muani had given the French the lead before goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo sent Spain through.Thousands are expected to spill on the streets of Benidorm ahead of the finalCredit: ReutersFans gathered outside bars in the island to celebrate England’s winCredit: Reuters More

ENGLAND fans have spotted Bukayo Saka brilliantly booting a ball away while celebrating Ollie Watkins’ dramatic 90th-minute winner against Netherlands.Gareth Southgate’s men booked their place in Sunday’s final against Spain as a last-gasp Watkins strike clinched a 2-1 win in Dortmund.Ollie Watkins scored England’s 90th-minute winner against NetherlandsCredit: AFPEngland players and substitutes swarmed Watkins in celebrationCredit: GettyBukayo Saka was spotted pumping a ball away during the jubilant scenesCredit: ITVThe late goal sparked scenes of jubilation among the England players and fans as a number of the substitutes stormed onto the pitch to join in the celebrations.But eagle-eyed supporters have identified what Arsenal man Saka did as he sprinted around the field.As Watkins ran towards the bench to meet several of his team-mates, Saka followed in hot pursuit.But he ended up nearer the touchline than the rest of the England squad, before he proceeded to smash a ball that had bounced onto the pitch.READ MORE ON ENGLANDAnd fans were loving the burst of passion from the forward – who left Arsenal team-mate Aaron Ramsdale hanging as the keeper waited to hug him.One social media user said: “We’ve got our game back, no rehearsed celebration, Saka walloping it as hard as he can into the stands, knee slides, all just unreal… 😍”While another added: “Ramsdale waiting to hug Saka, but Saka just wallops the ball into the stands, HAVE IT! 🤣🤣.”A third replied: “I did see someone at the station last night with a ball I wonder if it’s the same one.”Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSSaka impressed again for England during the semi-finalAnd a fourth responded: “Look what Saka did.”Saka thought he had scored the winner 10 minutes earlier when he buried Kyle Walker’s cutback.England vs Netherlands Player RatingsBut his celebrations were short-lived as it was ruled out for Walker straying offside.Saka has enjoyed a superb tournament for England and was his country’s talisman in the quarter-final against Switzerland.He scored in normal time and dispatched his penalty with aplomb as Southgate’s side marched into the last four.And he was a constant threat against Netherlands on Wednesday night, a run of form England fans will be hoping he can continue against Spain in Berlin this weekend.England ratings vs HollandENGLAND stormed into the final against Spain thanks to Ollie Watkins’ last-minute strike in the 2-1 win over Holland.It was a brilliant team performance, but how did each player rate?SunSport’s Tom Barclay ran the rule over Southgate’s boys, and here’s how he rated them.Jordan Pickford: 7Bigger goalkeepers may have got a stronger hand to Xavi Simons’ early stunner – though that was being hypercritical. Solid stop to deny Virgil van Dijk after the hour.Kyle Walker: 7Looked re-energised after some lumbering displays and bombed on at times in the first half, despite his role on the right of a back three. Last-ditch tackle on Cody Gakpo was spot on.John Stones: 7Strong in possession. He looks to have benefited from regular game-time after rarely featuring for Manchester City in the last few months.Marc Guehi: 6Came back into the side after suspension ruled him out of the Switzerland game. Had an unenviable task of making the big man Wout Weghorst after the break.Bukayo Saka: 7Razor-sharp in the first half, winning tackles, making runs and dribbling the ball proficiently. Less of an impact after the break, had a goal ruled out for offside and was booked.Declan Rice: 6Lost possession for Simons’ thunderous opener but grew into the game, mopping up where necessary. Poor pass when Kane was open midway through the second half.Kobbie Mainoo: 8Was England’s youngest-ever player to play in a major-tournament semi-final, aged 19years 82 days, and had a stormer in the first half. Great bursts forward, vital tackles, and his interplay with Foden was a joy.Kieran Trippier: 6We all know by now that he is playing out of position, so again he was limited going forward and reliable defensively. Subbed at half-time for the more natural Shaw.Phil Foden: 7The first 45 minutes was by far and away his best half of the tournament. Thought he’d scored when his shot was cleared off the line by Denzel Dumfries, and cracked the post with a cracker. But was then surprisingly subbed.Jude Bellingham: 5Back at the ground where he made his name but struggled to make much of an impact on his old stomping ground. Fortunate it was not he that was subbed.Harry Kane: 6Won and dispatched the penalty to go joint top-scorer in the tournament with three goals. Had looked more mobile initially but still tired badly after the break and was taken off.SUBSLuke Shaw (for Kieran Trippier, half-time): 6Looked assured for a man who has been out for so long.Ollie Watkins (for Harry Kane, 81): 9 and STAR MAN Surprisingly given the nod over Ivan Toney as striker sub as Southgate looked for more pace in behind. Brilliant finish into the corner to win the game – you could not ask more from him.Cole Palmer (for Phil Foden, 81): 7Had his big chance in the final minutes but shanked it horribly wide – but then fed Watkins for his wonderful winner.Gareth Southgate: 8His switch to a back three against Switzerland helped dig out the win there, and here it had his team finally playing some great football in the first half. The team went into their shells again as the game wore on and you feared the worst – but you have to say his decision to bring on Ollie Watkins was a masterstroke.  More

TICKETS to watch England battle Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday are already reselling for an astronomical amount.Around 50,000 fans are expected to race to Berlin to be apart of England’s first-ever final on foreign soil – with some touts already pricing the golden tickets at nearly £80,000 a pair.Tickets to watch England battle Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday are already reselling for an astronomical amountCredit: GettyUp to 50,000 England fans are set to embark on a journey to Berlin airportCredit: RexSome touts are already pricing the golden tickets at nearly £80,000 for England fansCredit: GettyFollowing Ollie Watkin’s last gasp screamer fans were quick to try and snap up tickets, flights and hotels ahead of a historic Sunday 14.A few hundred gold dust tickets are due to go on sale on the UEFA website this week, with the FA also having just 10,000 tickets to sell.But a whopping five times the number of fans are expected to turn up leaving tens of thousands searching for an unofficial ticket.Leaving desperate fans who want to watch England potentially get their hands on international silverware for the first time since 1966 being forced to stump up enough cash for the re-sale tickets.read more in Euro 2024Ticket prices for Sunday’s final flew up on the re-sale market with the most expensive seat selling for an incredible £78,000-a-pair.Some of the lowest-priced tickets – known as “Fans First” – are now sat at £4,400 – 25 times more expensive than the £85 face value they’re worth through UEFA.Meaning the cost has soared by 2,456 per cent, according to data from KingCasinoBonus.The most premium tickets available started off at just £1,285 but after ending up in the hands of resellers they have increased to a ridiculous £16,600.Most read in Euro 2024Meaning a pair of pitch-side tickets to Euro 2024 could set back travelling fans a whopping £33,200.A KingCasinoBonus spokesperson said: “England’s dream is alive, where they’ve got a second chance to grab the Euro 2024 trophy. “But for fans wanting to witness history in person, it comes at a hefty price.”Watch Harry Kane’s message to England fans after Three Lions reach Euro 2024 final in dramatic fashionUEFA have warned fans about buying tickets from outside sellers as they said: “We urge fans not to purchase tickets on the secondary market.”Not only do fans need to fork out a small fortune on tickets to the match but they also need to pay for flights and hotels.Joyous England fans have spent the night scrambling to join a ‘Berlin Airlift’ heading to Sunday’s final against Spain – with flights swiftly soaring up in price.With 21 EasyJet flights to Berlin from Birmingham, Bristol, Luton and Gatwick between Friday and the match also being fully booked.The remaining EasyJet flights going from Gatwick to Berlin in the next few days are priced at a whopping £918.The same seat will set back punters just £167 a week later.British Airways is also charging £782 to fly from Heathrow to Berlin on Saturday night.A remarkable 21 Ryanair flights from UK airports to Berlin between Thursday and Sunday are already sold out.Cost of hotels, flights and tickets to the Euro 2024 finalUP to 50,000 supporters are expected to race to the Three Lions’ first ever final on foreign soil – with the cost quickly adding up for fans.Tickets*Most expensive ticket – £39,000Premium resell ticket – £5,500 to £16,600Category 1 ticket – £3,100 to £6,600Category 2 ticket – £2,200 to £4,400Category 3 ticket – £1,700 to £3,500Fans First ticket – £2.045 to £4,400HotelsHoliday Inn Berlin – £345 for Sunday nightCourtyard Berlin City Centre – £606 for Sunday nightAirbnb – Upwards of £117-a-nightFlightsEasyJet flights, UK airports to Berlin – £918British Airways, Heathrow to Berlin – £782*Data from KingCasinoBonusElsewhere, the cheapest flights to Berlin and back to the UK have more than doubled at best.An easyJet spokesperson said: “Since the final whistle last night easyJet has seen an increase in demand for flights to and from Berlin.”Although we don’t artificially put fares up, our pricing is demand-led.”This means that as quick-thinking football fans booked seats the lower priced fares sold out, however, easyJet continues to have availability for direct flights between now and Sunday from the UK to Berlin.”Neil Chernoff, BA’s chief planning and strategy officer, said they saw a 1,000 per cent increase in searches for flights to Berlin between 10pm and 11pm on Wednesday.BA have also announced they are looking at using bigger jets for the flights to allow as many fans as possible to travel.Neil added: “It’s a huge game and everyone at British Airways hopes England can get over the line and bring it home.”Hotel prices in Berlin have also rocketed with a one-night stay at a Holiday Inn in Berlin costing £345 on Sunday night.Over £200 more expensive than the same room a week later.The Courtyard Berlin City Centre is also charging £606 for Sunday night in its cheapest room – but just £137 the following Sunday.Airbnb’s in the city have stayed at around £117-a-night based on two people sharing the rooms but are expected to be booked up soon.Thousands will also be joining the rush to the German capital in cars, camper vans, coaches and trains.England fans are likely to come over on a 550-mile dash from Calais.England overcame the Dutch in the semi-final at the Signal Iduna Park on Wednesday in a monumental game for Southgate’s side.The Dutch had started the match the better of the two as Simons gave them the lead in the 7th minute.Harry Kane levelled the match 11 minutes later from the spot after he won a controversial penalty.And it was Watkins who was the hero as he fired in the winner in the final moments of the match.The winning goal sent fans, players and coaching staff into wild celebrations.Even England’s Dutch coach Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was swept up in the moment before realising it came against his native country.Pundits Gary Neville and Ian Wright went wild in the ITV studio while Roy Keane remained his composed self.England will face Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe Spanish reached the final by dumping out France in the first semi-final 2-1.Randal Kolo Muani had given the French the lead before goals from Lamine Yamal and Dani Olmo sent Spain through.England ratings vs HollandENGLAND stormed into the final against Spain thanks to Ollie Watkins’ last-minute strike in the 2-1 win over Holland.It was a brilliant team performance, but how did each player rate?SunSport’s Tom Barclay ran the rule over Southgate’s boys, and here’s how he rated them.Jordan Pickford: 7Bigger goalkeepers may have got a stronger hand to Xavi Simons’ early stunner – though that was being hypercritical. Solid stop to deny Virgil van Dijk after the hour.Kyle Walker: 7Looked re-energised after some lumbering displays and bombed on at times in the first half, despite his role on the right of a back three. Last-ditch tackle on Cody Gakpo was spot on.John Stones: 7Strong in possession. He looks to have benefited from regular game-time after rarely featuring for Manchester City in the last few months.Marc Guehi: 6Came back into the side after suspension ruled him out of the Switzerland game. Had an unenviable task of making the big man Wout Weghorst after the break.Bukayo Saka: 7Razor-sharp in the first half, winning tackles, making runs and dribbling the ball proficiently. Less of an impact after the break, had a goal ruled out for offside and was booked.Declan Rice: 6Lost possession for Simons’ thunderous opener but grew into the game, mopping up where necessary. Poor pass when Kane was open midway through the second half.Kobbie Mainoo: 8Was England’s youngest-ever player to play in a major-tournament semi-final, aged 19years 82 days, and had a stormer in the first half. Great bursts forward, vital tackles, and his interplay with Foden was a joy.Kieran Trippier: 6We all know by now that he is playing out of position, so again he was limited going forward and reliable defensively. Subbed at half-time for the more natural Shaw.Phil Foden: 7The first 45 minutes was by far and away his best half of the tournament. Thought he’d scored when his shot was cleared off the line by Denzel Dumfries, and cracked the post with a cracker. But was then surprisingly subbed.Jude Bellingham: 5Back at the ground where he made his name but struggled to make much of an impact on his old stomping ground. Fortunate it was not he that was subbed.Harry Kane: 6Won and dispatched the penalty to go joint top-scorer in the tournament with three goals. Had looked more mobile initially but still tired badly after the break and was taken off.SUBSLuke Shaw (for Kieran Trippier, half-time): 6Looked assured for a man who has been out for so long.Ollie Watkins (for Harry Kane, 81): 9 and STAR MAN Surprisingly given the nod over Ivan Toney as striker sub as Southgate looked for more pace in behind. Brilliant finish into the corner to win the game – you could not ask more from him.Cole Palmer (for Phil Foden, 81): 7Had his big chance in the final minutes but shanked it horribly wide – but then fed Watkins for his wonderful winner.Gareth Southgate: 8His switch to a back three against Switzerland helped dig out the win there, and here it had his team finally playing some great football in the first half. The team went into their shells again as the game wore on and you feared the worst – but you have to say his decision to bring on Ollie Watkins was a masterstroke. Gareth Southgate’s England are looking to win international silverware on Sunday for the first time since 1966Credit: AlamyThe cost of flights to Berlin ahead of Sunday’s final have also skyrocketedCredit: PA More

ENGLAND will celebrate Euro 2024 glory with an open-top victory parade if they beat Spain.The Three Lions face Luis de la Fuente’s side in the final in Berlin on Sunday night.England will be honoured with an open-top parade if they beat Spain in the Euro 2024 finalCredit: GettyFans will have the chance to celebrate in London on Tuesday with plans already underwayCredit: GettyGareth Southgate’s side are into a second Euros final in a row after beating the NetherlandsCredit: GettyGareth Southgate is looking to make more history after taking England to a second consecutive Euros final.Ahead of the match, plans are already being put in place if his players come out victorious.According to The Standard, the squad will celebrate with a victory parade through London.Preparations are currently at an advanced stage, with a route planned from Guildhall in the City of London to Buckingham Palace.READ MORE IN FOOTBALLThe likes of Harry Kane and Jude Bellingham will then be honoured by the King and the royal family.It is understood the open-top bus parade will take place on Tuesday.As many as one million fans could line the streets in celebration, as the parade passes Trafalgar Square and The Mall.Meanwhile, the players have also been lined up to meet Prime Minister Sir Kier Starmer at Downing Street on Monday.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSThe Prime Minister is also expected to attend Sunday’s final at the Olympiastadion in the German capital, having also hinted at a bank holiday in the event of an England victory.A royal reception is pencilled in for Monday as well, with FA president Prince William likely to attend.England fans spot what Bukayo Saka did after Ollie Watkins’ winning goal against Netherlands as new footage emergesYou can say it hasn’t been pretty, but England are in the final… and we’re peaking at just the right time, says Jack WilshereAFTER what has been a tough tournament of times, what an opportunity Gareth Southgate and his team will have to end in the best possible way, writes Jack Wilshere.We might like a team that played better football. But it’s a results business.Germany, Italy, France, Portugal and of course Holland would love to be where we are.People will say we’re lucky because we’re on this side of the draw.But we won the group. France didn’t and then ran into Spain.You can say it wasn’t that pretty, but we’re there.Gareth and his coaches won’t have been happy with some of the performances.But I did like the way Gareth and his team have dealt with it.There was no panic coming out of the camp.Everyone gave the same message: ‘We know we can better, but we’re here still.’And on Sunday they will be in Berlin to play Spain.They will probably have to produce two halves of football as good as the first against Holland to beat them.We have improved as the tournament has gone on and that is how you win things.You want to peak in the final.If Gareth can lead England to that major trophy we’ve all been waiting for, it will be the perfect answer to the critics and a brilliant day for us all.Read Jack Wilshere’s England vs Holland verdict in full.Or check out all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euros 2024 opinions…England are bidding to win their first major tournament since the 1966 World Cup and just their second overall.Ollie Watkins’ last-minute strike against the Netherlands in Wednesday’s semi-final confirmed their place in the final.In doing so, England repeated the feat from the last Euros in 2021, where they were beaten on penalties by Italy.Southgate has also become the first manager to take the Three Lions to a major tournament final outside of England.The planned route for the parade will see it end at Buckingham PalaceCredit: GettyOllie Watkins’ last-minute goal against the Netherlands booked England’s place in the finalCredit: GettyEngland vs Spain recordEngland have played Spain 27 times in total – here is a look at every result…May 1929, Spain 4-3 England – International Friendly (L)December 1931, England 7-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)July 1950, Spain 1-0 England – World Cup (L)May 1955, Spain 1-1 England – International Friendly (D)November 1955, England 4-1 Spain – International Friendly (W)May 1960, Spain 3-0 England – International Friendly (L)October 1960, England 4-2 Spain – International Friendly (W)December 1965, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)May 1967, England 2-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)April 1968, England 1-0 Spain – European Championship (W)May 1968, Spain 1-2 England – European Championship (W)March 1980, Spain 0-2 England – International Friendly (W)June 1980, England 2-1 Spain – European Championship (W)March 1981, England 1-2 Spain – International Friendly (L)July 1982, Spain 0-0 England – World Cup (D)February 1987, Spain 2-4 England – International Friendly (W)September 1992, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)June 1996, England 0(4)-(2)0 Spain – European Championship (W)February 2001, England 3-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2004, Spain 1-0 England – International Friendly (L)February 2007, England 0-1 Spain – International Friendly (L)February 2009, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2011, England 1-0 Spain – International Friendly (W)November 2015, Spain 2-0 England – International Friendly (L)November 2016, England 2-2 Spain – International Friendly (D)September 2018, England 1-2 Spain – Nations League (L)October 2018, Spain 2-3 England – Nations League (W)Overall, England have won 14, drawn three and lost 10 matches against Spain. 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