1 week Ago By Football Today
Wembley Stadium sets the stage for a ‘David vs Goliath’ UEFA Nations League showdown between England and the Republic of Ireland. In one of the most scintillating performances had to offer on Thursday, Lee Carsley’s side thrashed Greece 3-0 in Athens to ascend the throne in Group B2. Ollie Watkins’ early deadlock-break set the tone for the Three Lions’ fifth victory from as many visits to Greek soil, helping them turn the tables on Ivan Jovanovic’s side after a dismal 2-1 defeat in October.
Sunday’s encounter in London will be Carsley’s farewell game as the interim boss makes way for the incoming Thomas Tuchel, who’ll take charge in January 2025. Despite facing a selection nightmare ahead of the pivotal win against Greece, Carlsey refused to accept praise for his tactical ingenuity after the game via the . That’s unsurprising, knowing England can’t afford to get complacent ahead of Ireland’s visit to Wembley, with an immediate return to the Nations League’s top table on the line.
After leapfrogging Greece into the top spot, Carsley’s men firmly control their fate heading into the final group match. A win against Ireland will guarantee promotion to League A, restoring England’s place among Europe’s elite in the youngest UEFA competition. Carsley painted his touchline debut with flying colours, pulling off a commanding 2-0 win against this opposition in September.
He will expect nothing less on Sunday, with England bidding to make it three consecutive wins against the Boys in Green. While England must get the job done this weekend, there’s nothing but pride left to play for in the Irish camp. Despite seeing Finland off on Thursday, Heimir Hallgrímsson’s men will finish third regardless of the outcome.
They have at least maintained their long-term League B status with a game to spare. However, Ireland could inflict damage on England’s promotion quest if they can halt a dreadful three-game scoreless run against their neighbours..
