England begins Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia.
In a historic Group D opener, Serbia will face off against England at Euro 2024, with the Eagles eager to make their mark as an independent nation against the formidable Three Lions under the lights of Veltins-Arena.
Serbia
```htmlAmid expected security concerns, Serbia will take on the Three Lions in a Group D clash in what will be their maiden fixture at Euro 2024. The Eagles share the group with Slovenia, Denmark, and, of course, England.
Despite winning only four of their ten games in the qualifying round, Serbia finished as runners-up in Group G. Aleksandar Mitrović’s five goals during the qualifying round helped Dragan Stojković’s side make a return to the European Championship after failing to qualify last time out.
Two-time winners as Yugoslavia (1960 & 1968), this will be the first time Serbia will qualify for the Euros as an independent nation. Stojković is now hoping to steer his side not only ahead of England but through to the next round of the competition.
Serbia’s squad may pale in comparison to England, but Piksi has in his ranks a few known faces. Juventus teammates Filip Kostic and Dušan Vlahović are in the fold along with Nemanja Gudelj from Sevilla.
‘England are one of the strongest teams in the tournament. It will be difficult for us because England are covered in all positions,’ Vlahović said in a pre-match press conference ahead of Sunday’s clash.
A 3—5—2 formation was seen in Serbia’s recent 3-0 win over Sweden. However, a 3—4—2—1 formation with Aleksandar Mitrović is expected here.
```England
England will carry the full weight of expectations on their shoulders when they take on Serbia. The Three Lions came extremely close to securing their maiden European title in the last tournament edition. This time, they aim to reach the final once more.
During the qualifying round, England won six of their games in Group C with a record of six wins, two draws, and no losses. However, their run-up to the Euros has been less impressive, with only one win in the last five games, including a surprising 1-0 defeat to Iceland.
Manager Gareth Southgate boasts a star-studded squad featuring talents like La Liga Player of the Season Jude Bellingham and European Golden Shoe winner Harry Kane. Premier League Player of the Season Phil Foden also joins the team.
England is on a four-game winning streak against Serbia/Yugoslavia and remains unbeaten in their last six encounters with this Sunday's opponents. "We know they're a big side," said Jordan Pickford ahead of the game. "We're prepared for the best of Serbia. We need to take the game on and get the result," he added.
A 4—2—3—1 formation with Harry Kane leading the attack is expected.
Team form
Showing the latest five games—giving you a quick look at recent performance trends. Teams in good form tend to do well in the next match.
Team Comparison
Side-by-side assessment of team statistics, including goals, attacks, and more. This allows you to directly compare key performance metrics. Analyzing these stats can reveal patterns and strengths that might influence the outcome.