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GARETH Southgate has quit his role as England manager TWO DAYS after Euro 2024 heartbreak.Spain edged the Three Lions 2-1 in the final with a late winner from Mikel Oyarzabal.Southgate goes down as one of England’s greatest-ever managers after leading his country to two European Championship finals and a World Cup semi-final during his tenure.SunSport understands Lee Carsley is in pole position to take over as interim England boss and is expected to lead the Three Lions into their Nations League campaign, which starts in September.The FA are on the search for the next person to lead a talented young group of players with Newcastle’s Eddie Howe and former Chelsea gaffer Graham Potter amongst the names linked to the post.CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Lee Carsley in pole position to succeed Southgate as interim manager EXCLUSIVECarsley is in pole position to take over as interim England boss after Gareth Southgate’s exit following Euro 2024, SunSport understands.The former Everton star, who is currently in charge of the U21 side, is expected to lead the Three Lions into their Nations League campaign which starts in September.FA bosses are big fans of Newcastle manager Eddie Howe but feel Carsley is best placed to take over for the next match against the Republic of Ireland.A move for Carsley would mirror the appointment of Southgate in 2016 who was promoted from U21s boss to England manager – also initially on an interim basis.The FA have confirmed they are already working on appointing the next manager, and want the position to be sorted by the time the Nations League campaign starts in September.A number of candidates have been linked with the vacant position, including Graham Potter, Howe, Thomas Tuchel and Jurgen Klopp.However, SunSport understands German tacticians Tuchel and Klopp are not realistic prospects at this stage.Copy linkCopiedJurgen Klopp ‘approach’Liverpool hero Dietmar Hamann claims the FA will approach Jurgen Klopp over replacing Gareth Southgate.Hamann told TopOffshoreSportsBooks:Jurgen Klopp wants to take a year off and the German national team manager role is taken, but I’m pretty sure England will approach Klopp.I think a lot of people would be very happy if he were to take over the national team. He said he’s taking a sabbatical so is it possible to wait for six months or maybe let him take over next summer?There are a few qualifiers but qualifying has always been pretty comfortable for England. I think they will ask him whether he wants to do it and then it’s up to him whether he would accept it or not, Thomas Tuchel might be interested as well.Years ago it would have been hard to imagine a German manager in England but the chances have never been better than it’s going to happen in the next few months.On paper, Jurgen Klopp is best placed to lead England to World Cup glory in 2026 because of what he did at Liverpool. He managed to win the Premier League and two Champions League titles, with the squad he had he did wonderful things.I think with the squad England have got now and also the age of the players, I think they’ll be a force for the next two or three tournaments. Obviously the next World Cup is in two years’ time. It’s certainly something which could get England fans dreaming.Dietmar HamannCopy linkCopiedGraham Potter tipEngland hero Paul Parker advised the FA to hire Graham Potter as Gareth Southgate’s replacement.Parker told mybettingsites.co.uk:Graham Potter fits the profile in my opinion. The way he is as a person and the way he manages teams, everything suggests to him.Eddie Howe? Does he really need that? Does he really want that? Does he want to win something as a manager at Newcastle before he goes and takes the England job? Because if he goes and wins a trophy at Newcastle, then that might be the time to walk away from Newcastle.And to be fair, if you want to do it and that’s a great way of doing it and that’s backing yourself. It’s then easier to walk away from a club like Newcastle.To manage England, to put yourself in that position to get persecuted every couple of years.Paul ParkerCopy linkCopiedPrince William sends messagePrince William has thanked Gareth Southgate for his tenure as England manager.The FA president said: “Gareth, I want to thank you – not as the President of the FA, but as an England fan.”Thank you for creating a team that stands shoulder to shoulder with the world’s finest in 2024. Thank you for showing humility, compassion, and true leadership under the most intense scrutiny and pressure.”And thank you for being an all-round class act. You should be incredibly proud of what you’ve achieved. W.”Copy linkCopiedBeckham reactsDavid Beckham has reacted to Gareth Southgate’s departure as England manager.The former Three Lions captain wrote on Instagram: “Thank you boss. You wasn’t just one of our most successful managers but you also did it with elegance. Congratulations to you and your staff.”Copy linkCopiedHowe on England jobFootage has resurfaced of what Eddie Howe said about the England job.The Newcastle manager has been tipped as a candidate to replace Gareth Southgate in the role.Howe was previously linked with the Three Lions in 2016 during his time at Bournemouth and have a telling answer when asked about taking the job.He said: “The England job is the ultimate, I would never say no.”Copy linkCopiedSouthgate favourite for new jobGareth Southgate is the favourite to succeed Erik ten Hag as Manchester United manager after leaving England.His odds of becoming the next Red Devils boss have been slashed following his resignation.William Hill have made Southgate the joint-favourite alongside Mauricio Pochettino.Next Manchester United manager oddsWilliam Hill pricesGareth Southgate 2/1Mauricio Pochettino 2/1Roberto De Zerbi 5/1Kieran McKenna 6/1Thomas Frank 7/1Thomas Tuchel 9/1Ruud van Nistelrooy 10/1Copy linkCopiedReaction to Southgate’s exitThe Sun’s Shaun Custis and Charlie Wyett have given their thoughts on Gareth Southgate’s departure as England boss.Southgate confirmed his resignation on Tuesday after eight years in charge of the Three Lions.The Sun’s Shaun Custis and Charlie Wyett discuss Gareth Southgate quitting as England manager and who could replace himCopy linkCopiedWaddle calls for GuardiolaEngland legend Chris Waddle has urged the FA to appoint Pep Guardiola as Gareth Southgate’s successor.Waddle told Lord Ping: “The FA should be ambitious. They should be thinking about replacing Gareth Southgate with the best possible candidate available.”If we want to win something, if we want to see this group of players play to their absolute potential, then we need to appoint the best.”I’ve heard that Pep Guardiola is thinking about international management when he leaves Manchester City.”He wants to work with a group of players that are capable of winning something, so England should tick all the boxes for him. The FA should be on his case.”They should have a conversation and see if there’s interest. If there is, then they should be doing absolutely everything possible to bring him in.”Copy linkCopiedKlopp tipped for EnglandFormer Liverpool midfielder Dietmar Hamann has tipped Jurgen Klopp to replace Gareth Southgate as England boss.He told TopOffshoreSportsBooks: “Jurgen Klopp wants to take a year off and the German national team manager role is taken, but I’m pretty sure England will approach Klopp.“I think a lot of people would be very happy if he were to take over the national team. He said he’s taking a sabbatical so is it possible to wait for six months or maybe let him take over next summer?“There are a few qualifiers but qualifying has always been pretty comfortable for England. I think they will ask him whether he wants to do it and then it’s up to him whether he would accept it or not, Thomas Tuchel might be interested as well.“Years ago it would have been hard to imagine a German manager in England but the chances have never been better than it’s going to happen in the next few months.“On paper, Jurgen Klopp is best placed to lead England to World Cup glory in 2026 because of what he did at Liverpool. He managed to win the Premier League and two Champions League titles, with the squad he had he did wonderful things.“I think with the squad England have got now and also the age of the players, I think they’ll be a force for the next two or three tournaments. Obviously the next World Cup is in two years’ time.“It’s certainly something which could get England fans dreaming.”Copy linkCopiedSouthgate’s first XIJust two players remain from Gareth Southgate’s first England starting XI.Kyle Walker and John Stones both started in a 2-0 win over Malta in October 2016.Daniel Sturridge and Dele Alli scored in the World Cup qualifying victory at Wembley Stadium.Copy linkCopiedMoment Southgate let it slipWas this the moment Gareth Southgate accidentally let slip he was quitting England after Euro 2024?After the final defeat to Spain, he spoke about England being in a strong position as he dropped a big hint he was set to resign.Southgate said: “I think England are in a really good position in terms of the experiences they’ve got now. The age of the squad.”Most of this squad are going to be around not only for the World Cup but the next Euros as well.”There’s a lot to look forward to but this moment is not any consolation.”Copy linkCopiedEngland fixturesThe incoming England manager will not have long to settle in with the Three Lions back in action in less than three months.England have six matches across September, October and November in the Nations League.Meanwhile, qualifying for the 2026 World Cup starts in March next year.England fixtures:September 7 – Ireland (a)September 10 – Finland (h)October 10 – Greece (h)October 13 – Finland (a)November 14 – Greece (a)November 17 – Ireland (h)Copy linkCopiedLineker wishes Southgate the bestGary Lineker has taken to social media to react to the news of Gareth Southgate’s departure.The former England striker wrote on X: “Wishing Gareth Southgate all the very best in the future.”He brought pride, respect and a togetherness to @England that we hadn’t seen for a long time.”He was close, very close to footballing immortality and he always did the job with humility, decency and dignity. Thank you, Gareth.”Copy linkCopiedEngland could hire interim bossEngland could hire an interim manager following Gareth Southgate’s exit.The Three Lions have started the process of hiring a new manager, FA chief executive Mark Bullingham confirmed.In a statement, he said: “Our UEFA Nations League campaign starts in September, and we have an interim solution in place if it is needed.”Copy linkCopiedPickford reactsEngland goalkeeper Jordan Pickford has reacted to Gareth Southgate’s exit.The Everton stopper re-shared a snap of himself and the outgoing Three Lions boss hugging.He also wrote: “Thank you Gareth,” with a praying and England flag emoji.Copy linkCopiedRice thanks SouthgateDeclan Rice has thanked Gareth Southgate on social media.The departing England boss handed the midfielder his Three Lions debut in 2019.Rice wrote on Instagram: “Thank you Gaffer. It’s been a privilege to play for England under your guidance.”Memories that will stay with me forever. All the best in your next adventure.”Copy linkCopiedWell wishes flood inFamous faces have thanked Gareth Southgate for his tenure as England manager on social media.One Direction singer Louis Tomlinson wrote: “Thank you Gareth Southgate for the incredible memories you’ve given us all over the last eight years.”Presenter Jake Humphrey added: “Gareth Southgate changed the mentality of English football. He leaves us believing again. I’ve seen people saying that losing two finals will leave a mark. Let’s reframe that… Making two finals will leave a mark. Thank you Gareth.”Copy linkCopiedBellingham respondsJude Bellingham has responded to Gareth Southgate’s departure as England manager.The midfielder reposted the FA’s farewell post to his Instagram story.Copy linkCopiedCarragher messageJamie Carragher has reacted to Gareth Southgate’s exit as England manager.The former Three Lions man wrote on social media: “It’s been a great ride for all involved over the last eight years.”Two finals, semi-final and a quarter-final in Gareth Southgate’s four tournaments is a very touch act to follow.”Copy linkCopiedEngland at major tournaments under SouthgateGareth Southgate managed England at four major tournaments during his eight years in charge.He reached two finals, with his worst finish being a quarter-final loss to France at the 2022 World Cup.2018 World Cup – Fourth place2021 Euros – Runners-up2022 World Cup – Quarter-finalists2024 Euros – Runners-upCopy linkCopiedBullingham statement continued”Before Gareth, our longest time ranked in the top five in the world was seven months. In his tenure we have been ranked there for six years.”Gareth has made the impossible job possible and laid strong foundations for future success. He is held in the highest regard by the players, the backroom team, by everyone at the FA and across the world of football.”We are very proud of everything Gareth and Steve achieved for England, and will be forever grateful to them.”The process for appointing Gareth’s successor is now under way and we aim to have our new manager confirmed as soon as possible. Our UEFA Nations League campaign starts in September, and we have an interim solution in place if it is needed.”We know there will be inevitable speculation, but we won’t be commenting further on our process until we appoint.”Copy linkCopiedEngland website crashesEngland’s website crashed after Gareth Southgate announced his departure.Southgate confirmed his exit with an emotional statement on the FA website.However, the national team site was unable to handle the amount of people who wanted to read Southgate’s last words.And just minutes after it was released, the website page crashed.Copy linkCopiedBullingham statementFA CEO Mark Bullingham has released a statement following Gareth Southgate’s departure as England manager.He said: “On behalf of English football, I would like to pay tribute to Gareth Southgate and to Steve Holland for everything they have achieved.”Over the last eight years they have transformed the England men’s team, delivering unforgettable memories for everyone who loves the Three Lions. We look back at Gareth’s tenure with huge pride – his contribution to the English game, including a significant role in player development, and in culture transformation has been unique. However, it is his record of winning tournament games which is most extraordinary.”In the 25 tournaments post 1966 before Gareth took charge, we had won seven knockout games. In his four tournaments we have won nine. So, in his eight years, he has won more games that really matter than in the previous 50 years.”And of course, we have had strong tournament performances throughout their tenure. We came so close to winning the EUROs in London and securing the first trophy for our men’s team for over 50 years – and came so close again in Berlin on Sunday.”Copy linkCopiedEngland next manager oddsHere are William Hill’s odds for the next England manager following Gareth Southgate’s exit.Next permanent England managerWilliam Hill oddsThink YOU know who will be the next England manager? William Hill have updated their odds on who will be chosen as Gareth Southgate’s successor AND they are offering brand new customers a whopping £60 in free bets when you register an account!Graham Potter – 6/5Lee Carsley – 3/1Eddie Howe – 4/1Mauricio Pochettino – 7/1Thomas Tuchel – 8/1Jurgen Klopp – 10/1Frank Lampard – 14/1Pep Guardiola – 16/1William Hill: Claim £60 welcome bonus – click here*Copy linkCopied More

ENGLAND and Spain are just hours away from battling in Berlin for the chance to WIN Euro 2024.The big team news is that Luke Shaw is expected to START the final in place of Kieran Trippier at left wing-back. Southgate is hoping to guide the Three Lions to their first piece of silverware since 1966, but they’ll have to stop wonderkid Lamine Yamal and Co, to do so.Kick-off time: 8pm BSTLive streams: BBC iPlayer / ITV XTV channels: BBC One / ITV 1England XI: Team news to follow…Spain XI: Team news to follow…Explainer: What is the Euro 2024 prize money?EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from Olympiastadion with our live blog below…England’s nemesis in attendance…Giorgio Chiellini, who helped Italy inflict heartbreak on England in the last Euros final, is at today’s showpiece in Berlin.He has just been spotted having a chat and warm handshake with former England goalkeeper Joe Hart, who is doing punditry duties for the BBC.Chiellini, 39, hung up his boots for his country a year after that triumph at Wembley at the delayed Euro 2020.One of the finest defenders of his generation, he called time on his playing career altogether 12 months later while at LAFC.He is now a player development coach with the MLS outfit, who previously had Gareth Bale and now have French World Cup winners Hugo Lloris and Olivier Giroud on their books.Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedGood omen for Spain?Carlos Alcaraz has just beaten Novak Djokovic in the Wimbledon final with ease. The Spaniard won 6-2, 6-2, 7-6 and will be hoping Spain can make it two wins from two later on against England. Having said that, an Italian in Matteo Berrettini lost the Wimbledon final in 2021, when England lost their final with Italy. A little role reversal this time in favour of England, or a good omen for Spain?Credit: PACopy linkCopiedSunSport’s Dave Kidd predictsThere’s no logic to this as Spain have been significantly better, and should be significantly fresher, than England.But there is something about the way England keep battling back from adversity and snatching dramatic victories, that makes it feel fated.Goals from Kane (pen) and Kobbie Mainoo.England 2-1 SpainCopy linkCopiedShaw to START Gareth Southgate has faced a dilemma on the left of defence throughout the tournament.He took Manchester United’s Shaw despite the defender having not played since February.Trippier was the one to shift over to his unfavoured side, firstly in a back four and then later a 3-4-3.Shaw made brief cameos off the bench against Switzerland in the quarter-finals and then in the semis win over Netherlands.But his fitness will now be tested from the off – three years on from his goal in the delayed Euro 2020 final against Italy.Copy linkCopiedLuke Shaw expected to STARTBIG team news coming out of Berlin as Luke Shaw is set to START tonight’s huge Euro 2024 final against Spain. It’s the first game Shaw will start in 148 days. Credit: AFPCopy linkCopiedSpain’s run to the finalLuis de la Fuente’s side have been the best side in the tournament so far. They had a tough group which contained holders Italy and tournament stalwarts Croatia, but topped it with three wins from three. They beat Georgia in style in the last 16, winning 4-1 before coming up against Germany in the quarter-finals. Mikel Merino’s extra-time winner sealed a thrilling 2-1 victory over the hosts before Lamine Yamal lit up their semi-final against France, which they won by the same scoreline. Credit: AFPCredit: APCredit: AFPCopy linkCopiedEngland’s run to the finalEngland overcame Serbia 1-0 in their opening group game before drawing with both Denmark and Slovenia in their final Group C matches. Nonetheless, the Three Lions topped their group and came up against Slovakia in the last 16. Jude Bellingham saved Gareth Southgate’s skin with a 95th-minute bicycle kick (mental, I know) and Harry Kane won it in extra-time. A penalty shootout win over Switzerland in the quarters was followed by a last-ditch 2-1 win over Holland in the semis. Credit: APCredit: RexCredit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLondon callingEngland fans really setting the scene in the capital right now, just under 700 miles away from tonight’s final in Berlin. Beer-drinking is in full flow…Credit: AlamyCredit: AlamyCredit: AlamyCredit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedSunSport’s Tom Barclay picks EnglandLamine Yamal and Co are way too good to think we’ll keep them out all game.But England have won as many knockout games coming from behind in this tournament as they ever have in combine Euros and World Cups from 1950-2024.The three turnarounds in the previous trio of ties gives plenty of reason to believe the Three Lions can recover from any setbacks.Phil Foden is finally going to bag one having come so close in recent games and Jude Bellingham will step up too because he was born for this occasion.After that, it will be repeat of the perfect shootout against the Swiss in the quarters – simple!Prediction: England 2-2 Spain (England on pens)Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedSouthgate on Spain Gareth Southgate knows the task ahead of him and his players tonight is huge.The England gaffer said: “It’s not as simple as us having the ball and making them run.“They press very, very well so we’re going to have to be exceptional with the ball and we’re going to have to be exceptional without it. It’s a final so you expect it to be that way. They’ve been the best team. We’re starting to show a better version of ourselves.”The extra day [of rest for Spain] is a concern, in the last few tournaments that’s been a problem for finalists. We’ve got to do the very best we can to recover the players as well as we can.”We’re not going to be on the training ground, that’s simple. We’ll be walking through things or delivering things in meetings, it was the same for this game, but we’re in there and with what we’ve shown to this point, we have as good a chance as they do.”Copy linkCopiedSunSport’s Charlie Wyett makes his pickIf England don’t win a trophy tonight, they never will.Spain have obviously been the better of the two teams out here but I believe Gareth Southgate’s side could be about to peak at the right time.England also have the experience of losing at a major final and have also shown great resilience throughout this tournament.Those two factors could be crucial. Hopefully, Kane to score the winner.Prediction: England 2 Spain 1Copy linkCopiedEngland fans on the groundEngland fans are already making their voices heard in Berlin with the Euro 2024 final just hours away from kick-off. Gareth Southgate stands on the edge of footballing immortality – but the Spanish stand in the way. Credit: AlamyCredit: APCredit: AlamyCopy linkCopiedWelcome to the Euro 2024 final – England vs Spain!England can make the nation proud TONIGHT when they battle Spain in Berlin with the Euro 2024 trophy up for grabs.Noise levels were at full volume on Wednesday night when super sub Ollie Watkins fired the Three Lions into the final and sent Holland home.And it now means that Gareth Southgate’s side are on the verge of ending a 58-year title drought after securing back-to-back Euro final spots.However, to do that, England will need to beat a Spain side that sent pre-tournament favourites France crashing out of the tournament.Furthermore, La Roja have won every single match up to this point and are likely to end Euro 2024 as top scorers.But form goes out the window when it comes to a final, and the Three Lions will be determined to make amends for what happened at Euro 2020.Both sides have enjoyed some big results, with Spain arguably the more impressive of the two.Luis de la Fuente’s men are the only team to win every single one of their matches thanks to exciting new stars like Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal.They have wiped out giants including Italy, Germany and France, with unsung heroes like Marc Cucurella and Fabian Ruiz stepping up to the plate.On the other hand, England have relied on late strikes to down the likes of Slovakia and the Netherlands.While they required penalties to get past Switzerland.But after firing home all five of their spot-kicks, England will not be afraid of going to penalties once again.Copy linkCopied More

ENGLAND take on Netherlands in tonight’s blockbuster Euro 2024 semi-final.The Three Lions are looking to reach their second major tournament final under boss Gareth Southgate.Defender Marc Guehi is set to return to the starting eleven in place of Ezri Konsa after the Crystal Palace man served his one-match suspension against Switzerland, while Kieran Trippier is also likely to keep his place at left-wing back despite Luke Shaw being fit enough to start from the off.The winner of tonight’s last 4 clash will set up a meeting with Spain in Sunday’s huge Berlin final.Kick off time: 8pm BSTTV channel: ITV1FREE live stream: ITVXEngland team: To follow…Netherlands team: To follow…EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow our live blog below…Head to headEngland have only beaten the Netherlands once in nine meetings since a 4-1 win at Euro 96.That is the Three Lions’ only win against the Dutch in a major tournament, alongside a goalless draw at Italia 90 and the Netherlands winning 3-1 at the 1988 Euros.Netherlands wins: 7England wins: 6Draws: 9Copy linkCopiedHow do suspensions work now we have reached the semi-final stage?All cautions that were awarded during the group stage, last-16 and quarter-finals have now been wiped.This means that the only way a player can miss the Euro 2024 final (should their nation make it) is for them to be sent off in the semi-final.Jude Bellingham, Kobbie Mainoo, Kieran Trippier, Phil Foden and Conor Gallagher were all walking the suspension tightrope during England’s quarter-final against Switzerland, but now they don’t need to worry about picking up a yellow card, as long as it isn’t two of course…Credit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedDutch fans get the atmosphere going in DortmundHolland fans are in full voice ahead of tonight’s huge Euro 2024 semi-final against England.Dutch fans get the atmosphere going ahead of England semi-final Copy linkCopiedDutch team newsThe Netherlands are in the same boat and have no players suspended.Ronald Koeman has gone for the same back four throughout the tournament, with Jerdy Schouten and Tijani Reijnders also ever-presents in midfield.Copy linkCopiedEngland team newsEngland have no suspensions for this game, with all their previous yellow cards now wiped.Southgate has a fully fit squad to select from with Marc Guehi back from his suspension, and Luke Shaw is fit enough to start after playing his first Euro 2024 minutes in the quarter-final.The Three Lions boss needs to decide whether he should stick with a back three or return to a four-man defence and whether to play Shaw over tournament regular Kieran Trippier.Copy linkCopiedGood afternoon and welcome to SunSport’s live blog of England vs Netherlands!The Three Lions are looking to seal their spot in a second Euros final in a row TONIGHT when they take on the Netherlands.Gareth Southgate’s side are just one game away from taking centre stage in Berlin’s Olympiastadion – where they could face Spain.La Roja booked their spot in the final after coming from behind to beat France 2-1 last night.And today England head into the semi-finals after a 5-3 penalty shootout win over Switzerland on Saturday, having drawn 1-1.After an uneasy start in Germany – with two group game draws and a narrow win – the Three Lions saved their place in the tournament with a 95th-minute Jude Bellingham overhead kick and a Harry Kane extra-time goal in the round of 16 clash against Slovakia.And to avoid going out again, England came from behind in the quarter-final against the Swiss, with Bukayo Saka equalising after Breel Embolo’s opener.England will now face the Netherlands for a place in Sunday’s showpiece.The Dutch beat Turkey 2-1 in the quarter-final after Stefan de Vrij and a Mert Mulder own goal.Ronald Koeman’s side did not have the best group campaign – where they finished third in their group – but have now found their feet in this tournament.Copy linkCopied More

SPAIN have beaten France 2-1 to book their spot in Sunday’s huge Euro 2024 final.Kolo Muani headed the French in front after superb work from Kylian Mbappe in the build-up.16-year-old superstar Lamine Yamal bagged a stunning equaliser on 21 minutes to become the youngest goalscorer ever at the European Championship.Minutes later, Dani Olmo put Spain 2-1 up after a frantic start to the semi-final.Spain saw out the second half in a professional manner and will play either the Netherlands or England in Sunday’s huge Berlin final.During the post-match celebrations, La Roja skipper Alvaro Morata was involved in a freak injury after a member of the grounds staff slipped and wiped out the striker.Match result: Spain 2-1 FranceEURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from the Allianz Arena with our live blog below…’We are waiting’In his post-match press conference, Spain boss Luis de la Fuente expressed his delight – and also said he had no preference whether his side faces the Netherlands or England in Sunday’s final.He said: “We are very happy, the happiness was already great to get here but now it is much greater. “I feel a lot of pride for these players, they are exceptional, they know how to play and read the games in an extraordinary way.”We have returned Spanish football to where it belongs. We have to value what these players are doing. “We want to continue making history, we don’t want to relax, we have to stay focused to face the final in Berlin.”It doesn’t matter who the opponent is, we’ve already seen the journey we’ve had in this European Championship. “They are two great rivals and we are waiting for them with open arms. We want to win the final.”Credit: GettyCopy linkCopiedLuke Littler has his say…Darts hero Luke Littler took to social media to send a bizarre, hilarious message to his fellow teen sensation.Yamal became the youngest scorer ever at the European Championships just three days shy of his 17th birthday…Copy linkCopiedYamal’s brutal messageIn the build up to the game France midfielder Adrien Rabiot had his say on Lamine Yamal and said the teenage midfielder would have to “do much more” to reach the Euro 2024 final.Rabiot said before the game: “It is always complicated to manage a semi-final in a tournament like this, but it will be up to us to put the pressure on him [Lamine Yamal] above all.”Not to let him feel comfortable and to show him that to play in a Euro final, he will have to do much more than what he has done so far.”But Yamal clearly had the last laugh, scoring a brilliant equalising goal as Spain booked their place in Sunday’s showpiece.Immediately after the game, the Barcelona wonderkid then got his own back on Rabiot, looking straight down the camera and appearing to say: “Speak now, speak now!”.Copy linkCopiedMorata – how it happenedVideo shows the moment a steward slipped over and collided with Alvaro Morata while trying to apprehend a pitch invader: Shocking moment member of staff injures Spain star moments after reaching Euro 2024 final with victory over FranceCopy linkCopiedMorata latestSpain manager Luis de La Fuente said: “We will wait until tomorrow.”We don’t think it’s anything. His leg hurt but we hope he’s going to be OK.”Credit: PACopy linkCopiedOlmo at it againDani Olmo was not considered a starter in Luis de la Fuente’s Spain side at the start of this tournament – but he has made his omission from Sunday’s final almost impossible.Having previously starred off the bench, the midfielder became the first Spanish player to score in three successive games at the European Championship with his matchwinner against the French.He now tops the scoring charts at this summer’s tournament along with four other players, but his two assists means he would currently claim the Golden Boot award.His five goal involvements at Euro 2024 (three goals and two assists) is the most by a Spaniard at a major tournament since David Silva at Euro 2012 (two goals and three assists). Copy linkCopiedYa beauty! Teenager trumps PeleLamine Yamal was already guaranteed a place in the record books before he conjured up one of the European Championship’s great moments.At 16 years and 362 days, the forward became the youngest ever player to appear in the semi-final of a major tournament, beating the record held by a little-known Brazilian named Pele (17y 244d).And then, in the 21st minute, Yamal conjured up the wonder goal that will be played over and over for years to come.His 25-yard curler ensured that the Spaniard is now also the youngest player to ever score in a World Cup or European Championship, breaking another record set by Pele against Wales at the 1958 World Cup.Copy linkCopiedMatch stats from MunichSpain managed just one shot at an xG of 0.01 in the second half……but it didn’t matter as they held off France to reach the Euro 2024 final.Copy linkCopiedConcern for captain during celebrationsThe Spanish players and staff are still out on the pitch, celebrating in front of their fans, but there is a slight concern for Alvaro Morata.The captain appears to have been injured after a member of security slipped and collided into him as the squad gathered by one goal.Morata was able to limp away from the incident but did not look happy and was moving very delicately, often pausing to hold his knee.The final is just five days away.Copy linkCopiedFull time – Spain 2-1 FranceIt’s all over! Spain are through to the final of Euro 2024!La Roja have won a sixth successive match at this tournament, and in doing so have knocked out Europe’s best defence, Kylian Mbappe, and a nation that don’t lose semi-finals.On this occasion, the hero is 16-year-old Lamine Yamaal, who lit up Munich with a stunning equaliser in the first half that made him the youngest goalscorer in European Championship history.Dani Olmo scored the winner minutes later, fully justifying his inclusion in a patched-up Spain side, and completing a turnaround after Randal Kolo Muani had headed France in front.Spain march on to Sunday’s final in Berlin, where they will face either England or the Netherlands.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France90+5. Referee Slavko Vincic – with a little help from Luis de la Fuente – moves the awaiting Spain squad back from the touchline as La Roja play keep ball.Time is almost up, and the Spanish are ready to celebrate.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France – Spain double substitution90+3. Spain’s wonders on the wing take their leave to a tremendous reception.It’s all been about Lamine Yamal tonight, but Nico Williams has more than played his part.It’s time for Ferran Torres and Martin Zubimendi to take to the field.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France90+2. All of a sudden, France can not get to the ball.Spain are doing what they do best: keeping possession.The olés are ringing around Munich.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France – Yamal yellow card90. The board goes up to signal that France have five minutes to rescue this semi-final.Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal goes into the book for a tactical foul that brings a fast French break to a shuddering halt.Scores like a teenager, fouls like an old pro.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France – Camavinga yellow card88. Eduardo Camavinga belts into Marc Cucurella unnecessarily which pleases the watching German fans if nothing else.As Slavko Vincic flashes his yellow card, the French want to get on with the game while the Spanish protest the rather crude challenge. Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France86. Actually, Spain have not used all their substitutes so I’m not sure what the rush was to get Laporte back on.Maybe they’ve just run out of defenders.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France85. Mbappe on the run! Mbappe in on goal! Mbappe shoots over!The France captain has a look of shock upon his face, and he’s not the only one inside this stadium.He had done everything right, sparking the counter and cutting inside Vivian to tee up a strike on his right foot.He expected to score. We all expected him to score. But instead the ball flew high over Unai Simon’s goal.Was that the moment?Copy linkCopied Spain 2-1 France83. Laporte walks into Giroud’s shoulder and almost knocks himself out.Dazed and confused on the turf, the centre-back has blood pouring from his nose while the French substitute looms over him with a shrug of the shoulders.Spain have made all of their subs too so a groggy Laporte will have to be patched up to play on.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France81. Yamal almost does it again!From a similar position on the right, the teenager whips a left-footed rocket inches over the French crossbar.It’s already an incredible story, but that would have made it into an epic Hollywood franchise.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France – France substitution79. He’s big, he’s beautiful, and he’s on to save France’s European Championship.Record goalscorer Olivier Giroud replaces Ousmane Dembele with one simple mission: score a 58th goal for your country.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France – Spain double substitution77. Now Spain do make their changes.On comes Mikel Oyarzabal and – hero of the quarter-finals – Mikel Merino.The pair take over from goalscorer Dani Olmo and goalphobic Alvaro Morata.Rodri takes the captain’s armband.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France76. Oh, Theo Hernandez!The French defender is the latest to pass up an opportunity to equalise following an extraordinary sequence of carelessness inside the Spain penalty area.Camavinga fails to control after two defenders leave it to each other, but somehow it still presents itself kindly for Hernandez to spoon over from the edge of the box.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France74. What’s the Spanish for taking the sting out of the game?On the touchline, Luis de la Fuente has been waiting to make a couple of changes for several minutes.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France72. Spain defend another corner, prompting a barnstorming run downfield from substitute Vivian.Captain Morata takes over and tells him ‘none of that’, promptly passing back to Olmo in a defensive position.Copy linkCopiedSpain 2-1 France70. It’s now more than 30 minutes of playing time since Spain registered an attempt at goal.France are dominating possession, and the question is whether they can break the Spanish down.Will Mbappe have a say in this one yet?Copy linkCopied More

SPAIN face France in a mouthwatering Euro 2024 semi-final TONIGHT – but the Spaniards will be without several key stars.Real Madrid legend Dani Carvajal and Real Sociedad centre-back Robin Le Normand have both been suspended for this huge tie.While Barcelona ace Pedri has been ruled out of the remainder of the tournament with a knee injury.The winners of tonight’s huge match will play either the Netherlands or England in Sunday’s final.Kick-off time: 8pm BSTLive stream: BBC iPlayerTV channel: BBC OneSpain XI: Team news to follow…France XI: Team news to follow…EURO 2024 FREE BETS AND OFFERSFollow ALL the action from the Allianz Arena with our live blog below…Euro 2024 pathway to the finalSo with just three games to go including tonight’s blockbuster match, here is what the pathway to the final looks like from the round of 16.Copy linkCopiedFrance’s team newsFrance superstar Kylian Mbappe has not been on top form during this tournament after breaking his nose in the group stage clash against Austria.He was taken off in extra-time in the quarters but will be fit to start.Deschamps handed Randal Kolo Muani and Eduardo Camavinga their first starts in the tournament against Portugal and they could keep their spots.Credit: GETTYCopy linkCopiedSpain team issuesSpain will need a major reshuffle after picking up a number of injuries and suspensions in their win over Germany.Pedri is definitely out with a knee injury suffered just minutes in Stuttgart in a heavy challenge from Toni Kroos.And they will also be without Dani Carvajal, who was sent off in the final minutes the with over the Germans, and Robin Le Normand who picked up his second yellow card of the tournament.Dani Olmo will be expected to start again after his goal and assist against the Germans.While Nacho and Ayoze Perez are both fit to return to the bench after knocks.Copy linkCopiedWilli make an impact?Meanwhile, Nico Williams has been one of Spain’s standout performers at the Euros.The Athletic Bilbao star has formed an excellent partner shift with Marc Cucurella down the left flank.The 21-year-old winger has scored one goal and added an assist during his debut senior European Championship.Copy linkCopiedYou Kant count him outFrance have somehow made it through to this stage despite their dreadful goal record.Unsurprisingly, it’s a defensive star who has been their best player, in the form of ex-Chelsea star N’Golo Kante – who was absent from the squad national squad last year.The 33-year-old Al-Ittihad midfielder has rolled back the years with some eye-catching performances.Copy linkCopiedHello and welcome to SunSport’s live blog of Spain vs France?Spain will have to reshuffle the pack in their mouthwatering Euro 2024 semi-final clash against neighbours France TONIGHT!La Roja beat hosts Germany in the quarters to continue their 100 per cent winning streak in the tournament and secure their spot in the last four.Spain have been one of the few teams to put in consistently impressive performances in Germany.Luis de la Fuente’s side led for much of the second half in their clash with the hosts after substitute Dani Olmo’s goal.Mikel Merino prevented the game from going to penalties with a 119th-minute header after Florian Wirtz had forced extra-time late on.Meanwhile, France have been on the opposite end of the entertainment scale after scraping a win on penalties against Portugal in the quarter-final.Kylian Mbappe and Co still haven’t scored a goal from open play.But it does not matter as Didier Deschamps’ side are now one win away from a third major final in four tournaments. Furthermore, Les Bleus will feel a lot more confident knowing that the likes of Pedri, Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand will all be missing for this huge contest.Don’t go anywhere as coming right up, we’ll have any breaking news, exclusives and the starting line-ups all before kick-off at 8pm BST.Copy linkCopied More