France player Marcus Thuram called national team captain Kylian Mbappe a 'ninja turtle' in response to a journalist's question. The incident happened at France's pre-match press conference ahead of their opening tie in the ongoing Euro 2024 against Austria on Monday (June 17).

A journalist mistook Thuram for Mbappe to which the former replied: “I’m more handsome than Kylian. I don’t look like a ninja turtle."

The comments, however, was made in good spirit and Thuram had no intention of disrespecting Mbappe. Have a look at the incident below:

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Marcus Thuram after a journalist mistakenly called him Kylian: “I’m more handsome than Kylian. I don’t look like a ninja turtle!!” 🤣🤣 <a href="https://t.co/olCxN9nJt8">pic.twitter.com/olCxN9nJt8</a>
— Julien Laurens (@LaurensJulien) <a href="https://twitter.com/LaurensJulien/status/1801962248451101083?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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The French footballer also urged the people of his country to vote in the upcoming National Assembly elections. French president Emmanuel macron announced snap elections in the country on Sunday (June 16) after National Rally party, known for anti-immigration stance, made huge gains in recently concluded European Parliament elections.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-axe-wielding-man-shot-by-german-police-ahead-of-poland-vs-netherlands-match-732261">Euro 2024: Axe-wielding man shot by German police ahead of Poland vs Netherlands match</a>

Thuram urged his fellow citizens to prevent the surge of far-right party in the upcoming elections.

“I think the situation is sad. It’s very serious,” Thuram said. “I learned about it after (Sunday’s friendly) match against Canada. We were all shocked in the dressing room. It’s the sad reality of our society today … As Ousmane said, we must tell everyone to go and vote. We all need to fight daily so that this doesn’t happen and that the National Rally (party) does not succeed.”

“I hope that everyone shares my opinion in the France team. I understand that some players can come here and just say people should vote, but I don’t think that’s enough, you have to also explain how we got here and the seriousness of the situation," he added.

As for Euro 2024, France are placed in Group D with Austria, Poland and Netherlands. After their match against Australia on Monday, they face Netherlands on June 22 and Poland on June 25.

France player Marcus Thuram called national team captain Kylian Mbappe a 'ninja turtle' in response to a journalist's question. The incident happened at France's pre-match press conference ahead of their opening tie in the ongoing Euro 2024 against Austria on Monday (June 17).

France player Marcus Thuram called national team captain Kylian Mbappe a 'ninja turtle' in response to a journalist's question. The incident happened at France's pre-match press conference ahead of their opening tie in the ongoing Euro 2024 against Austria on Monday (June 17). A journalist mistook Thuram for Mbappe to which the former replied: “I’m more handsome than Kylian. I don’t look like a ninja turtle." The comments, however, was made in good spirit and Thuram had no intention of disrespecting Mbappe. Have a look at the incident below: Marcus Thuram after a journalist mistakenly called him Kylian: “I’m more handsome than Kylian. I don’t look like a ninja turtle!!” 🤣🤣 pic.twitter.com/olCxN9nJt8 — Julien Laurens (@LaurensJulien) June 15, 2024 × The French footballer also urged the people of his country to vote in the upcoming National Assembly elections. French president Emmanuel macron announced snap elections in the country on Sunday (June 16) after National Rally party, known for anti-immigration stance, made huge gains in recently concluded European Parliament elections. Also Read: Euro 2024: Axe-wielding man shot by German police ahead of Poland vs Netherlands match Thuram urged his fellow citizens to prevent the surge of far-right party in the upcoming elections. “I think the situation is sad. It’s very serious,” Thuram said. “I learned about it after (Sunday’s friendly) match against Canada. We were all shocked in the dressing room. It’s the sad reality of our society today … As Ousmane said, we must tell everyone to go and vote. We all need to fight daily so that this doesn’t happen and that the National Rally (party) does not succeed.” “I hope that everyone shares my opinion in the France team. I understand that some players can come here and just say people should vote, but I don’t think that’s enough, you have to also explain how we got here and the seriousness of the situation," he added. As for Euro 2024, France are placed in Group D with Austria, Poland and Netherlands. After their match against Australia on Monday, they face Netherlands on June 22 and Poland on June 25.

Euro 2024: France's Marcus Thuram calls captain Kylian Mbappe 'ninja turtle' | Read Why

Former Manchester United player-turned-pundit, Roy Keane believes that Trent Alexander-Arnold will be ripped to shreds at the ongoing European Championship, if he plays in the midfield. Trent's position in the England team has been up for debate for a long time with many expecting manager Gareth Southgate to play him in the midfield alongside Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice.&nbsp;

Keane's rather pessimistic statement&nbsp;comes ahead of England's opener against Serbia on Sunday (Jun 16) which could either fire Trent to prove him wrong or it might demoralise the Liverpool player.&nbsp;

"I think Trent's position will be fine in those matches, but it's against the real top teams I think he'll be found out.&nbsp;I think he'll be ripped to shreds if he plays against one of the better teams in central midfield," said Keane.&nbsp;

"It's all about getting the balance right in your team.&nbsp;They've got some brilliant individuals, we've mentioned that many times before. Four or five players who would walk into any team at this tournament, but it's getting that balance right," he added.&nbsp;

<h2>Wayne Rooney echoes similar sentiments&nbsp;</h2>

Keane is not the first ex-United player to take a stab at Trent for his position in the midfield. Last week, Wayne Rooney said Southgate was going to pick Trent&nbsp;in the XI but he had reservations over the defensive capabilities of the talented right-back.

"I think he (Southgate) will go with Trent. I think he’s probably the most gifted player we have with the ball at his feet that we've got,"&nbsp;Rooney said on&nbsp;The Overlap's&nbsp;Euros fan debate.&nbsp;

"Defensively he is all over the place. He can't defend. I wouldn’t have him anywhere near the middle of the pitch," he added.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fans-slam-wayne-rooney-for-lazy-uninformed-opinion-on-england-stars-euro-2024-position-731441">Also read |&nbsp;Fans slam Wayne Rooney for 'lazy, uninformed' opinion on England star's Euro 2024 position</a>

While former players question Trent's position, the right-back was impressive during the two international friendlies England played in the lead-up to the tournament.&nbsp;

Fans argue that Trent is one of the most gifted passers in the England squad who has the X-factor. If the Three Lions are to go the distance and win only their second international trophy, Trent's form will be pivotal.&nbsp;&nbsp;

England's squad for the Euros&nbsp;

Goalkeepers:&nbsp;Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale 
 
Defenders:&nbsp;Lewis Dunk,Joe Gomez, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker 
 
Midfielders:&nbsp;Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jude Bellingham, Conor Gallagher,&nbsp;Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Adam Wharton&nbsp; 
 
Forwards:&nbsp;Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins

(More to follow)

Former Manchester United player-turned-pundit, Roy Keane believes that Trent Alexander-Arnold will be ripped to shreds at the ongoing European Championship, if he plays in the midfield.

Former Manchester United player-turned-pundit, Roy Keane believes that Trent Alexander-Arnold will be ripped to shreds at the ongoing European Championship, if he plays in the midfield. Trent's position in the England team has been up for debate for a long time with many expecting manager Gareth Southgate to play him in the midfield alongside Jude Bellingham and Declan Rice. Keane's rather pessimistic statement comes ahead of England's opener against Serbia on Sunday (Jun 16) which could either fire Trent to prove him wrong or it might demoralise the Liverpool player. "I think Trent's position will be fine in those matches, but it's against the real top teams I think he'll be found out. I think he'll be ripped to shreds if he plays against one of the better teams in central midfield," said Keane. "It's all about getting the balance right in your team. They've got some brilliant individuals, we've mentioned that many times before. Four or five players who would walk into any team at this tournament, but it's getting that balance right," he added. Wayne Rooney echoes similar sentiments Keane is not the first ex-United player to take a stab at Trent for his position in the midfield. Last week, Wayne Rooney said Southgate was going to pick Trent in the XI but he had reservations over the defensive capabilities of the talented right-back. "I think he (Southgate) will go with Trent. I think he’s probably the most gifted player we have with the ball at his feet that we've got," Rooney said on The Overlap's Euros fan debate. "Defensively he is all over the place. He can't defend. I wouldn’t have him anywhere near the middle of the pitch," he added. Also read | Fans slam Wayne Rooney for 'lazy, uninformed' opinion on England star's Euro 2024 position While former players question Trent's position, the right-back was impressive during the two international friendlies England played in the lead-up to the tournament. Fans argue that Trent is one of the most gifted passers in the England squad who has the X-factor. If the Three Lions are to go the distance and win only their second international trophy, Trent's form will be pivotal. England's squad for the Euros Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson, Jordan Pickford, Aaron Ramsdale Defenders: Lewis Dunk,Joe Gomez, Marc Guehi, Ezri Konsa, Luke Shaw, John Stones, Kieran Trippier, Kyle Walker Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold, Jude Bellingham, Conor Gallagher, Kobbie Mainoo, Declan Rice, Adam Wharton Forwards: Jarrod Bowen, Eberechi Eze, Phil Foden, Anthony Gordon, Harry Kane, Cole Palmer, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, Ollie Watkins (More to follow)

'He'll be ripped to shreds': Roy Keane against Liverpool player starting in England midfield

England must be "exceptional" to end a 58-year major tournament title drought, according to manager Gareth Southgate, as they kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on Sunday.

The Three Lions must cope with the pressure of being hyped as one of the favourites for the tournament as Southgate aims to finally steer a richly-talented generation to glory.

England are aiming to make amends after losing the final of Euro 2020 to Italy on home soil at Wembley.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/barella-bastoni-on-scoresheet-as-italy-see-off-albania-after-record-early-scare-732149">Euro 2024: Barella, Bastoni on scoresheet as Italy see off Albania after record early scare</a>

Under Southgate they have also come close at two World Cups and the England boss has acknowledged this could his final opportunity for major tournament success.

"There are a lot of good teams in this tournament. We have to be exceptional to progress through the group and have the opportunity to go further," said Southgate at his pre-match press conference. "Our focus is to qualify from the group. When you're trying to achieve exceptional things you have to break it down into chunks.

"Our first priority is to get through the group and work from there."

Despite a remarkable goalscoring record at club and international level, England captain Harry Kane is yet to win a major trophy in his career.

"Winning a trophy for your country would be the pinnacle of every career," said Kane, who scored 44 times in his debut season at Bayern Munich. "It hasn't quite happened yet but it makes me more determined and hungry to go out and do that, starting with this summer.

"We have the opportunity to go out and do that and I'm looking forward to trying to make that happen."

England are expected to cruise through Group C, which also contains Denmark and Slovenia.

<h2>- Mitrovic threat -</h2>

There is little for Southgate to fear based on Serbia's performance in qualifying.

Dragan Stojkovic's side won just four of their eight qualifiers, losing twice to Hungary and were held on both occasions by Bulgaria.

However, they have a striker in form in Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is well known to Premier League fans from his eight years in England with Newcastle and Fulham.

Mitrovic has scored 40 goals in 43 games since joining Saudi side Al Hilal, helping them to an unbeaten domestic treble.

"He's an outstanding goalscorer," said Southgate. "We have to be ready to deal with some exceptional players across the pitch."

Serbia coach Stojkovic is aware of the scale of the task facing his side, but said England had to prove their status as pre-tournament favourites once the action gets underway.

"The team that tries to be the champion of Europe," said Stojkovic on what he expects from England.

"They have to do it on the pitch. You can say this or that and make all kind of forecasts, but all that has to be shown on the field to prove yourselves."

The match has been declared as a "high risk" fixture by the German police and the first real test of the tournament for the security forces.

Supporters will only be able to access reduced-strength beer at the AufSchalke Arena.

England's opening game at Euro 2016 against Russia saw running battles between hooligans.

The Euro 2020 final was also marred by ugly scenes as ticketless fans stormed the entrances to Wembley.

Hooliganism has also been a recurring theme at Serbian international matches and both managers called on the fans to enjoy what Southgate described as a "carnival of football".

England must be "exceptional" to end a 58-year major tournament title drought, according to manager Gareth Southgate, as they kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on Sunday.

England must be "exceptional" to end a 58-year major tournament title drought, according to manager Gareth Southgate, as they kick off their Euro 2024 campaign against Serbia on Sunday. The Three Lions must cope with the pressure of being hyped as one of the favourites for the tournament as Southgate aims to finally steer a richly-talented generation to glory. England are aiming to make amends after losing the final of Euro 2020 to Italy on home soil at Wembley. ALSO READ: Euro 2024: Barella, Bastoni on scoresheet as Italy see off Albania after record early scare Under Southgate they have also come close at two World Cups and the England boss has acknowledged this could his final opportunity for major tournament success. "There are a lot of good teams in this tournament. We have to be exceptional to progress through the group and have the opportunity to go further," said Southgate at his pre-match press conference. "Our focus is to qualify from the group. When you're trying to achieve exceptional things you have to break it down into chunks. "Our first priority is to get through the group and work from there." Despite a remarkable goalscoring record at club and international level, England captain Harry Kane is yet to win a major trophy in his career. "Winning a trophy for your country would be the pinnacle of every career," said Kane, who scored 44 times in his debut season at Bayern Munich. "It hasn't quite happened yet but it makes me more determined and hungry to go out and do that, starting with this summer. "We have the opportunity to go out and do that and I'm looking forward to trying to make that happen." England are expected to cruise through Group C, which also contains Denmark and Slovenia. - Mitrovic threat - There is little for Southgate to fear based on Serbia's performance in qualifying. Dragan Stojkovic's side won just four of their eight qualifiers, losing twice to Hungary and were held on both occasions by Bulgaria. However, they have a striker in form in Aleksandar Mitrovic, who is well known to Premier League fans from his eight years in England with Newcastle and Fulham. Mitrovic has scored 40 goals in 43 games since joining Saudi side Al Hilal, helping them to an unbeaten domestic treble. "He's an outstanding goalscorer," said Southgate. "We have to be ready to deal with some exceptional players across the pitch." Serbia coach Stojkovic is aware of the scale of the task facing his side, but said England had to prove their status as pre-tournament favourites once the action gets underway. "The team that tries to be the champion of Europe," said Stojkovic on what he expects from England. "They have to do it on the pitch. You can say this or that and make all kind of forecasts, but all that has to be shown on the field to prove yourselves." The match has been declared as a "high risk" fixture by the German police and the first real test of the tournament for the security forces. Supporters will only be able to access reduced-strength beer at the AufSchalke Arena. England's opening game at Euro 2016 against Russia saw running battles between hooligans. The Euro 2020 final was also marred by ugly scenes as ticketless fans stormed the entrances to Wembley. Hooliganism has also been a recurring theme at Serbian international matches and both managers called on the fans to enjoy what Southgate described as a "carnival of football".

England chase European glory as Southgate backs team to begin tournament on high

Italy recovered from the shock of conceding the fastest goal ever scored at a European Championship to beat Albania 2-1 on Saturday as Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella ensured the defending champions made a winning start to the tournament.

Tens of thousands of raucous, red-shirted Albania fans had the Dortmund BVB Stadion rocking when Nedim Bajrami blasted home from an angle after 23 seconds, capitalising on a rash throw-in by defender Federico Dimarco.

The goal smashed the previous record held by Russia's Dmitri Kirichenko who scored after 67 seconds against Greece in 2004.

Amid the din, however, Italy held their nerve and equalised in the 11th minute when Bastoni headed home when a short corner was swung in to the far post by Lorenzo Pellegrini.

Barella put the Azzurri in front five minutes later when he slammed home from outside the box.

Davide Frattesi almost extended the Italians' lead in the 34th minute but Albanian goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha tipped his chipped shot on to the post.

Despite fielding a team packed with Serie A players, Albania were left chasing shadows for much of the game as the new-look side assembled by Italy coach Luciano Spalletti dominated with neat and fast passing, albeit without creating many chances.

Central defender Riccardo Calafiori impressed on only his third international appearance as he took the place of more experienced team mates out with injuries.

Spalletti, who led Napoli to the Serie A title a year ago, took over the national team in September when Roberto Mancini controversially switched to coach Saudi Arabia, having guided Italy to victory at Euro 2020.

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-morata-carvajal-help-spain-thrash-croatia-in-group-b-to-kickstart-campaign-732122">Euro 2024: Morata, Carvajal help Spain thrash Croatia in Group B to kickstart campaign</a>

Spalletti praised his players for not allowing the early setback to upset them.

"They were great because they all shared in the difficulty that the team was facing and they did the right thing. No one threw their arms up in air," he said. "They showed that they are a strong team in terms of character. I am happy with them. But there are lots of things that need to improve."

Albania coach Sylvinho said his players had felt the tension as the national team embarked on only their second major tournament.

"It wasn't easy for us," - the former Brazil told Sky Sport television. "We have young players and there was some nervousness. Italy are a strong side and we were in a battle with them. The lads did well."

The tournament in Germany is an important stepping stone for Italy's hopes of returning to the World Cup after failing to qualify for world soccer's showpiece event in 2018 and 2022.

Victory for Italy was vital in the toughest group in the tournament and a bigger test will come on Thursday when they face Spain, who comfortably beat Croatia 3-0 in Berlin. Albania play Croatia on Wednesday in Group B.

Italy recovered from the shock of conceding the fastest goal ever scored at a European Championship to beat Albania 2-1 on Saturday as Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella ensured the defending champions made a winning start to the tournament.

Italy recovered from the shock of conceding the fastest goal ever scored at a European Championship to beat Albania 2-1 on Saturday as Alessandro Bastoni and Nicolo Barella ensured the defending champions made a winning start to the tournament. Tens of thousands of raucous, red-shirted Albania fans had the Dortmund BVB Stadion rocking when Nedim Bajrami blasted home from an angle after 23 seconds, capitalising on a rash throw-in by defender Federico Dimarco. The goal smashed the previous record held by Russia's Dmitri Kirichenko who scored after 67 seconds against Greece in 2004. Amid the din, however, Italy held their nerve and equalised in the 11th minute when Bastoni headed home when a short corner was swung in to the far post by Lorenzo Pellegrini. Barella put the Azzurri in front five minutes later when he slammed home from outside the box. Davide Frattesi almost extended the Italians' lead in the 34th minute but Albanian goalkeeper Thomas Strakosha tipped his chipped shot on to the post. Despite fielding a team packed with Serie A players, Albania were left chasing shadows for much of the game as the new-look side assembled by Italy coach Luciano Spalletti dominated with neat and fast passing, albeit without creating many chances. Central defender Riccardo Calafiori impressed on only his third international appearance as he took the place of more experienced team mates out with injuries. Spalletti, who led Napoli to the Serie A title a year ago, took over the national team in September when Roberto Mancini controversially switched to coach Saudi Arabia, having guided Italy to victory at Euro 2020. ALSO READ: Euro 2024: Morata, Carvajal help Spain thrash Croatia in Group B to kickstart campaign Spalletti praised his players for not allowing the early setback to upset them. "They were great because they all shared in the difficulty that the team was facing and they did the right thing. No one threw their arms up in air," he said. "They showed that they are a strong team in terms of character. I am happy with them. But there are lots of things that need to improve." Albania coach Sylvinho said his players had felt the tension as the national team embarked on only their second major tournament. "It wasn't easy for us," - the former Brazil told Sky Sport television. "We have young players and there was some nervousness. Italy are a strong side and we were in a battle with them. The lads did well." The tournament in Germany is an important stepping stone for Italy's hopes of returning to the World Cup after failing to qualify for world soccer's showpiece event in 2018 and 2022. Victory for Italy was vital in the toughest group in the tournament and a bigger test will come on Thursday when they face Spain, who comfortably beat Croatia 3-0 in Berlin. Albania play Croatia on Wednesday in Group B.

Euro 2024: Barella, Bastoni on scoresheet as Italy see off Albania after record early scare

Switzerland made a flying start at Euro 2024 as Kwadwo Duah and Michel Aebischer scored their first international goals in a 3-1 win against Hungary on Saturday.

Murat Yakin's side raced into a two-goal lead by half-time in Cologne to kick off their Group A campaign in impressive fashion.

Duah opened the scoring in only his second international appearance after making his debut earlier this month.

The London-born 27-year-old, who plays for Bulgarian club Ludogorets Razgrad, holds dual citizenship with Ghana and Switzerland, who will be relieved he opted to represent them on the evidence of this dynamic display.

After providing the assist for Duah's opener, Bologna midfielder Aebischer netted his maiden Switzerland goal with an eye-catching long-range strike just before the interval.

Barnabas Varga's seventh goal in nine starts for Hungary set up a tense finale, but Breel Embolo struck in stoppage-time to seal the points.

Following reports of a rift between Yakin and his players over tactics, Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka insisted on Friday that the air had been cleared in time for the Euros.

A recent dinner with Yakin featuring "plenty of wine" healed the wounds and the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder showed his support for the manager with an influential performance.

Switzerland beat France on penalties in the last 16 at Euro 2020 before losing a shoot-out to Spain in the quarter-finals.

They will hope to emulate that memorable run after enjoying a perfect start in a group that also includes hosts Germany, who thrashed Scotland 5-1 in the tournament opener on Friday.

Switzerland face Scotland in their second game on Wednesday, while Hungary play Germany the same day.

Hungary boss Marco Rossi had urged his side to embrace the pressure of being ranked as one of Europe's emerging forces.

But their dismal first half proved fatal, showing that comparisons to Hungary's 'Mighty Magyars', who finished as runners-up at the 1954 World Cup, were rather premature.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/former-arsenal-and-everton-striker-kevin-campbell-passes-breathes-last-at-54-732055">Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell breathes last at 54</a>

<h2>Swiss on a roll</h2>

Switzerland needed just 12 minutes to puncture Hungarian optimism in ruthless fashion.

Aebischer slipped a perfectly weighted pass through the heart of the Hungary defence, sending Duah through to plant a clinical low finish past Peter Gulacsi.

Duah's celebrations were initially curtailed by an erroneous offside flag, but the decision was corrected by VAR as Switzerland's players mobbed their unheralded hero.

Ruben Vargas should have sent the roiling red sea of Switzerland fans into ecstasy again moments later.

Vargas intercepted Milos Kerkez's wayward pass on the edge of the area, but the winger was left holding his head in frustration after his shot cannoned off Gulacsi's shoulder.

The Swiss were on a roll and Willi Orban wasted a golden opportunity to halt their momentum with a close-range header that was straight at Yann Sommer.

It was a crucial moment as Aebischer doubled Switzerland's lead on the stroke of half-time.

With Hungary sat too deep, a flowing Swiss move climaxed with Aebischer curling a superb strike into the far corner from 25 yards.

Varga gave Hungary a lifeline in the 66th minute, just moments after he had missed a sitter.

Dominik Szoboszlai's pin-point cross found Varga and his diving header whistled past Sommer from six yards.

Hungary pushed hard for an equaliser, but Embolo came off the bench to chip a cool finish over Gulacsi in the final seconds.

Switzerland made a flying start at Euro 2024 as Kwadwo Duah and Michel Aebischer scored their first international goals in a 3-1 win against Hungary on Saturday.

Switzerland made a flying start at Euro 2024 as Kwadwo Duah and Michel Aebischer scored their first international goals in a 3-1 win against Hungary on Saturday. Murat Yakin's side raced into a two-goal lead by half-time in Cologne to kick off their Group A campaign in impressive fashion. Duah opened the scoring in only his second international appearance after making his debut earlier this month. The London-born 27-year-old, who plays for Bulgarian club Ludogorets Razgrad, holds dual citizenship with Ghana and Switzerland, who will be relieved he opted to represent them on the evidence of this dynamic display. After providing the assist for Duah's opener, Bologna midfielder Aebischer netted his maiden Switzerland goal with an eye-catching long-range strike just before the interval. Barnabas Varga's seventh goal in nine starts for Hungary set up a tense finale, but Breel Embolo struck in stoppage-time to seal the points. Following reports of a rift between Yakin and his players over tactics, Switzerland captain Granit Xhaka insisted on Friday that the air had been cleared in time for the Euros. A recent dinner with Yakin featuring "plenty of wine" healed the wounds and the Bayer Leverkusen midfielder showed his support for the manager with an influential performance. Switzerland beat France on penalties in the last 16 at Euro 2020 before losing a shoot-out to Spain in the quarter-finals. They will hope to emulate that memorable run after enjoying a perfect start in a group that also includes hosts Germany, who thrashed Scotland 5-1 in the tournament opener on Friday. Switzerland face Scotland in their second game on Wednesday, while Hungary play Germany the same day. Hungary boss Marco Rossi had urged his side to embrace the pressure of being ranked as one of Europe's emerging forces. But their dismal first half proved fatal, showing that comparisons to Hungary's 'Mighty Magyars', who finished as runners-up at the 1954 World Cup, were rather premature. ALSO READ | Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell breathes last at 54 Swiss on a roll Switzerland needed just 12 minutes to puncture Hungarian optimism in ruthless fashion. Aebischer slipped a perfectly weighted pass through the heart of the Hungary defence, sending Duah through to plant a clinical low finish past Peter Gulacsi. Duah's celebrations were initially curtailed by an erroneous offside flag, but the decision was corrected by VAR as Switzerland's players mobbed their unheralded hero. Ruben Vargas should have sent the roiling red sea of Switzerland fans into ecstasy again moments later. Vargas intercepted Milos Kerkez's wayward pass on the edge of the area, but the winger was left holding his head in frustration after his shot cannoned off Gulacsi's shoulder. The Swiss were on a roll and Willi Orban wasted a golden opportunity to halt their momentum with a close-range header that was straight at Yann Sommer. It was a crucial moment as Aebischer doubled Switzerland's lead on the stroke of half-time. With Hungary sat too deep, a flowing Swiss move climaxed with Aebischer curling a superb strike into the far corner from 25 yards. Varga gave Hungary a lifeline in the 66th minute, just moments after he had missed a sitter. Dominik Szoboszlai's pin-point cross found Varga and his diving header whistled past Sommer from six yards. Hungary pushed hard for an equaliser, but Embolo came off the bench to chip a cool finish over Gulacsi in the final seconds.

Euro 2024: Duah, Aebischer help Switzerland sink Hungary to kickstart tournament on winning note

Three-time champions Spain have kick-started their Euro 2024 campaign with a thumping win over Croatia as they made a statement in Berlin on Saturday (June 15).

Winning 3-0 courtesy of first half strikes from skipper Alvaro Morata, Fabian Ruiz and Dani Carvajal, the La Roja will be targeting their record-breaking fourth title in Germany.

The win sees Spain top of Group B and will look to seal a place in the next round when they next take the field.

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The three-time European champions have often been accused of being toothless in attack during recent major tournaments, but produced an eye-catching display at the Olympiastadion to cut apart a disappointing Croatia.

Morata broke the deadlock in the 29th minute with his seventh Euros goal, moving joint-third on the all-time list alongside Alan Shearer and Antoine Griezmann.

Fabian Ruiz added a second shortly afterwards with a wonderful individual strike.

Yamal made his mark with the assist for Dani Carvajal to effectively kill the game as a contest on the stroke of half-time, while Croatia striker Bruno Petkovic missed a late penalty.

"Very happy with the win, for my (Euros) debut," Yamal told La 1.

"We've got confidence, we're a very efficient team and we're showing it. We're happy because all the work from the last few months has borne fruit."

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/former-arsenal-and-everton-striker-kevin-campbell-passes-breathes-last-at-54-732055">Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell breathes last at 54</a>

This repeat of last year's Nations League final, won by Spain on penalties after a 0-0 draw, suggests La Roja are capable of contending for a record-breaking fourth European Championship title.

World Cup semi-finalists Croatia, though, have it all to do if they are to reach the knockout phase for a fifth consecutive major tournament, with games against Albania and holders Italy to come in a difficult Group B.

Three-time champions Spain have kick-started their Euro 2024 campaign with a thumping win over Croatia as they made a statement in Berlin on Saturday (June 15). Winning 3-0 courtesy of first half strikes from skipper Alvaro Morata, Fabian Ruiz and Dani Carvajal, the La Roja will be targeting their record-breaking fourth title in Germany.

Three-time champions Spain have kick-started their Euro 2024 campaign with a thumping win over Croatia as they made a statement in Berlin on Saturday (June 15). Winning 3-0 courtesy of first half strikes from skipper Alvaro Morata, Fabian Ruiz and Dani Carvajal, the La Roja will be targeting their record-breaking fourth title in Germany. The win sees Spain top of Group B and will look to seal a place in the next round when they next take the field. 🇪🇸 Spain put on a show 👏#EURO2024 | #ESPCRO pic.twitter.com/cOGGDYf5nR — UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) June 15, 2024 × The three-time European champions have often been accused of being toothless in attack during recent major tournaments, but produced an eye-catching display at the Olympiastadion to cut apart a disappointing Croatia. Morata broke the deadlock in the 29th minute with his seventh Euros goal, moving joint-third on the all-time list alongside Alan Shearer and Antoine Griezmann. Fabian Ruiz added a second shortly afterwards with a wonderful individual strike. Yamal made his mark with the assist for Dani Carvajal to effectively kill the game as a contest on the stroke of half-time, while Croatia striker Bruno Petkovic missed a late penalty. "Very happy with the win, for my (Euros) debut," Yamal told La 1. "We've got confidence, we're a very efficient team and we're showing it. We're happy because all the work from the last few months has borne fruit." ALSO READ | Former Arsenal and Everton striker Kevin Campbell breathes last at 54 This repeat of last year's Nations League final, won by Spain on penalties after a 0-0 draw, suggests La Roja are capable of contending for a record-breaking fourth European Championship title. World Cup semi-finalists Croatia, though, have it all to do if they are to reach the knockout phase for a fifth consecutive major tournament, with games against Albania and holders Italy to come in a difficult Group B.

Euro 2024: Morata, Carvajal help Spain thrash Croatia in Group B to kickstart campaign

Substitute Wout Weghorst snatched a late winner for the Netherlands in a 2-1 victory over Poland on Sunday (Jun 16) in their opening Euro 2024 clash. The former Manchester United striker, who burst into life at the 2022 World Cup, once again brought his best game to the big stage in Hamburg as Poland looked to have frustrated their opponents, despite injured striker Robert Lewandowski being unable to play.

Substitute Wout Weghorst snatched a late winner for the Netherlands in a 2-1 victory over Poland on Sunday (Jun 16) in their opening Euro 2024 clash. The former Manchester United striker, who burst into life at the 2022 World Cup, once again brought his best game to the big stage in Hamburg as Poland looked to have frustrated their opponents, despite injured striker Robert Lewandowski being unable to play. The Barcelona striker's replacement Adam Buksa, headed Poland in front after 16 minutes before Cody Gakpo levelled with a deflected effort at the Volksparkstadion. Netherlands failed to convert further openings and Poland improved as the game seemed to be heading for a draw, before Weghorst intervened in the 83rd minute to delight his team's fans. Clad in their traditional vibrant orange, a sea of bouncing Dutch supporters took over the streets of Hamburg before the game, hoping for a second European Championship trophy. Coach Ronald Koeman, in his second stint at the helm, won the tournament with the Oranje as a player in 1988. The Netherlands, who performed strongly two years ago at the Qatar World Cup after failing to reach Euro 2016 and the 2018 World Cup, came out of the blocks quickly. Despite lacking the star power of previous generations -- the likes of Arjen Robben, Ruud van Nistelrooy and Robin van Persie -- their current trio of forwards are dynamic. Liverpool winger Gakpo took the creative reins alongside Memphis Depay and Xavi Simons, and tested Wojciech Szczesny with a low drive. Midfielder Tijjani Reijnders steered a good chance narrowly wide before Michal Probierz's Poland took the lead against the run of play with one of their first forays forward. Antalyaspor striker Buksa planted a glancing header beyond Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen from Piotr Zielinski's corner after 16 minutes. Szczesny saved well from Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk and Depay flashed two efforts off-target before Gakpo levelled. The forward's effort from just outside the area deflected in off Bartosz Salamon, leaving Juventus goalkeeper Szczesny with no chance. Also read | Euro 2024: Axe-wielding man shot by German police prior to Poland vs Netherlands match Missed chances Gakpo put Netherlands ahead from close range after being teed up by Nathan Ake but his shot rose fractionally too high. Sporting a striking white sweatband around his forehead, Depay fired agonisingly wide in first-half stoppage time as the Dutch maintained control and racked up shots. Poland largely managed to stifle their opponents in a more even second half, with the Netherlands short of ideas. Verbruggen saved from Jakub Kiwior at his near post, while the rampaging Denzel Dumfries threatened twice at the other end. Stefan de Vrij headed a corner over but the fluency Koeman's side produced in the opening period was harder to come by as Poland's confidence grew. It took Weghorst to finally put the Oranje ahead. He finished clinically with his first opportunity two minutes after coming on. Ake, who also teed up Gakpo for the opener, slid a low cross into the box and Weghorst diverted it home with a tidy finish. Bolstered by their late winner, Netherlands next face tournament favourites France on Friday (Jun 21), while Poland take on Austria hoping to have Lewandowski fit to play.

Euro 2024: Netherlands rescued by late Weghorst winner in opener against Poland

The German police&nbsp;shot an axe-wielding man in Hamburg where&nbsp;fans had gathered, hours ahead of the Euro 2024 match between Netherlands and Poland.&nbsp;

The incident took place in the&nbsp;Reeperbahn district - a popular entertainment district in Hamburg's city centre where a police officer was initially attacked by the man.&nbsp;The area where almost 40,000 Dutch fans had gathered was subsequently cleared around 12:30 p.m. CET (6:30 am ET) before the security agencies shot the attacker.

Police said the man was also carrying an incendiary device, probably some kind of Molotov cocktail. The media reports said police used pepper spray against the attacker before deploying a firearm.&nbsp;

"At St Pauli, there is currently a major police operation.&nbsp;According to initial findings, a person threatened police officers with a pickaxe and an incendiary device," the Hamburg Police informed in a statement.&nbsp;

"The police then used their firearms. The attacker was injured and is currently receiving medical treatment."

The motive of the attacker remains unknown at this stage but reports indicate that it was not related to football. The video clips of the incident have gone viral on social media and show the attacker attempting to charge at the officials who gave him ample opportunity to surrender before discharging their firearm.&nbsp;

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Euro 2024: Man shot by Hamburg police after axe attack. Just before Poland-Netherlands match. The man is injured and hospitalised. <a href="https://t.co/9z4c7OPWWU">pic.twitter.com/9z4c7OPWWU</a>
— Imtiaz Mahmood (@ImtiazMadmood) <a href="https://twitter.com/ImtiazMadmood/status/1802314355171602577?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 16, 2024</a></blockquote>
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German Police have shot a man armed with an axe near Euros fan park in Hamburg before Poland vs Netherlands<a href="https://t.co/rRv7QpS4Yt">pic.twitter.com/rRv7QpS4Yt</a>
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<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-defying-police-orders-english-fans-sing-10-german-bombers-ahead-of-match-vs-serbia-watch-732242">Also read |&nbsp;Euro 2024: Defying police orders, English fans sing '10 German bombers' ahead of match vs Serbia - WATCH</a>

<h2>Previous incident</h2>

Sunday's incident is&nbsp;not the first violent incident to have rocked the Euros. On the opening night of the tournament on Friday (Jun 14), a knifeman in eastern Germany killed one person and severely injured two more at a Euros party ahead of the match between Germany and Scotland.

Reports indicate that the England vs Serbia match could also see disruption as over 500 Serbian hooligans were planning to engage in violent conduct against their English counterparts.&nbsp;

The tournament's security has been beefed up&nbsp;due to concerns of hooliganism and the potential for a terrorist attack. There have been reports that terror outfit Islamic State&nbsp;has been planning an operation at the marquee tournament, which is expected to attract 2.7 million visitors to Germany.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)&nbsp;&nbsp;

The German police shot an axe-wielding man in Hamburg where fans had gathered, hours ahead of the Euro 2024 match between Netherlands and Poland. The incident took place in the Reeperbahn district - a popular entertainment district in Hamburg's city centre where a police officer was initially attacked by the man.

The German police shot an axe-wielding man in Hamburg where fans had gathered, hours ahead of the Euro 2024 match between Netherlands and Poland. The incident took place in the Reeperbahn district - a popular entertainment district in Hamburg's city centre where a police officer was initially attacked by the man. The area where almost 40,000 Dutch fans had gathered was subsequently cleared around 12:30 p.m. CET (6:30 am ET) before the security agencies shot the attacker. Police said the man was also carrying an incendiary device, probably some kind of Molotov cocktail. The media reports said police used pepper spray against the attacker before deploying a firearm. "At St Pauli, there is currently a major police operation. According to initial findings, a person threatened police officers with a pickaxe and an incendiary device," the Hamburg Police informed in a statement. "The police then used their firearms. The attacker was injured and is currently receiving medical treatment." The motive of the attacker remains unknown at this stage but reports indicate that it was not related to football. The video clips of the incident have gone viral on social media and show the attacker attempting to charge at the officials who gave him ample opportunity to surrender before discharging their firearm. Euro 2024: Man shot by Hamburg police after axe attack. Just before Poland-Netherlands match. The man is injured and hospitalised. pic.twitter.com/9z4c7OPWWU — Imtiaz Mahmood (@ImtiazMadmood) June 16, 2024 × German Police have shot a man armed with an axe near Euros fan park in Hamburg before Poland vs Netherlandspic.twitter.com/rRv7QpS4Yt — Total Football (@TotalFootbol) June 16, 2024 × Also read | Euro 2024: Defying police orders, English fans sing '10 German bombers' ahead of match vs Serbia - WATCH Previous incident Sunday's incident is not the first violent incident to have rocked the Euros. On the opening night of the tournament on Friday (Jun 14), a knifeman in eastern Germany killed one person and severely injured two more at a Euros party ahead of the match between Germany and Scotland. Reports indicate that the England vs Serbia match could also see disruption as over 500 Serbian hooligans were planning to engage in violent conduct against their English counterparts. The tournament's security has been beefed up due to concerns of hooliganism and the potential for a terrorist attack. There have been reports that terror outfit Islamic State has been planning an operation at the marquee tournament, which is expected to attract 2.7 million visitors to Germany. (With inputs from agencies)

Euro 2024: Axe-wielding man shot by German police ahead of Poland vs Netherlands match

Travelling England fans for Euro 2024 have defied police orders by singing the controversial chant '10 German Bombers' at the marquee tournament ahead of the Three Lions' first match against Serbia.&nbsp;

Video clips posted on social media showed English fans performing the illicit song in the West&nbsp;German city of&nbsp;Gelsenkirchen where the match is scheduled to take place at the&nbsp;Veltins Arena&nbsp;- home to Bundesliga 2 club Schalke, on Sunday (Jun 15).&nbsp;

The chant, sung to the tune of 'She'll Be Coming Round The Mountain when she comes' and nursery rhyme 'Ten Green Bottles', contains the lyrics:&nbsp;"There were 10 German bombers in the air" and "but the RAF from England shot them down".

A video shared by Matt Lawton of The Times captured the English fans belting the chant while throwing inflatable planes around.&nbsp;&nbsp;

"No trouble here in Dusseldorf but our German hosts are being treated to this," Lawton captioned the video as saying.&nbsp;

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No trouble here in Dusseldorf but our German hosts are being treated to this <a href="https://t.co/nz8Bb27EHH">pic.twitter.com/nz8Bb27EHH</a>
— Matt Lawton (@Lawton_Times) <a href="https://twitter.com/Lawton_Times/status/1802063827598479701?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 15, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>'Don't be a d*ck'</h2>

In the lead-up to the tournament,&nbsp;Peter Both, the chief of police in Gelsenkirchen had told English fans not to be a 'd*ck' and sing the song.&nbsp;

"That's what I would say to them: Don't be a d***. If they sing a song like this, I can't change it. It's not punishable in Germany," said Both.&nbsp;

"I hope that all the other peaceful and law-abiding fans say to them: 'Stop it.' I know, and all people in Germany know, there is a long-lasting sporting rivalry between England and Germany. But it's important for me to say it's only a sporting one. Our countries have been, and remain, allies for over seven decades," he added.

Reports indicate that as many as&nbsp;40,000 English fans have travelled to Germany for the opening match while between 5,000 and 8,000 Serbian supporters have also landed in the West German city.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-abusing-england-players-online-could-land-fans-in-trouble-heres-how-731508">Also read |&nbsp;Euro 2024: Abusing England players online could land fans in trouble. Here's how</a>

A Guardian&nbsp;report had claimed that a squad of 500 Serbian hooligans was expected to engage in violent conduct with the English fans ahead of the match.&nbsp;

The report added that&nbsp;more than 1,600 England fans with football banning orders had been forced to surrender their passports to the police from June 4 till the final on July 14.&nbsp;

Apart from the violence by fans or ultra groups, the organisers are also worried about the risk of a terrorist attack or an attempt by Russia to stir violence.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

Travelling England fans for Euro 2024 have defied police orders by singing the controversial chant '10 German Bombers' at the marquee tournament ahead of the Three Lions' first match against Serbia.

Travelling England fans for Euro 2024 have defied police orders by singing the controversial chant '10 German Bombers' at the marquee tournament ahead of the Three Lions' first match against Serbia. Video clips posted on social media showed English fans performing the illicit song in the West German city of Gelsenkirchen where the match is scheduled to take place at the Veltins Arena - home to Bundesliga 2 club Schalke, on Sunday (Jun 15). The chant, sung to the tune of 'She'll Be Coming Round The Mountain when she comes' and nursery rhyme 'Ten Green Bottles', contains the lyrics: "There were 10 German bombers in the air" and "but the RAF from England shot them down". A video shared by Matt Lawton of The Times captured the English fans belting the chant while throwing inflatable planes around. "No trouble here in Dusseldorf but our German hosts are being treated to this," Lawton captioned the video as saying. No trouble here in Dusseldorf but our German hosts are being treated to this pic.twitter.com/nz8Bb27EHH — Matt Lawton (@Lawton_Times) June 15, 2024 × 'Don't be a d*ck' In the lead-up to the tournament, Peter Both, the chief of police in Gelsenkirchen had told English fans not to be a 'd*ck' and sing the song. "That's what I would say to them: Don't be a d***. If they sing a song like this, I can't change it. It's not punishable in Germany," said Both. "I hope that all the other peaceful and law-abiding fans say to them: 'Stop it.' I know, and all people in Germany know, there is a long-lasting sporting rivalry between England and Germany. But it's important for me to say it's only a sporting one. Our countries have been, and remain, allies for over seven decades," he added. Reports indicate that as many as 40,000 English fans have travelled to Germany for the opening match while between 5,000 and 8,000 Serbian supporters have also landed in the West German city. Also read | Euro 2024: Abusing England players online could land fans in trouble. Here's how A Guardian report had claimed that a squad of 500 Serbian hooligans was expected to engage in violent conduct with the English fans ahead of the match. The report added that more than 1,600 England fans with football banning orders had been forced to surrender their passports to the police from June 4 till the final on July 14. Apart from the violence by fans or ultra groups, the organisers are also worried about the risk of a terrorist attack or an attempt by Russia to stir violence. (With inputs from agencies)

Euro 2024: Defying police orders, English fans sing '10 German bombers' ahead of match vs Serbia - WATCH

Germany thrashed 10-man Scotland 5-1 as the Euro 2024 hosts kicked off the tournament in style in Munich on Friday, the start of a journey they hope culminates in a record fourth continental title.

Florian Wirtz struck the opening goal 10 minutes in and Jamal Musiala soon doubled Germany's lead with an emphatic finish.

"We couldn't have had a better start. We've seen the atmosphere in the country, and we need that," Musiala said of Germany's lightning start.

A long-awaited night for Scotland went from bad to worse before half-time when Ryan Porteous was sent off for a two-footed challenge on Ilkay Gundogan, with Kai Havertz tucking away the resulting penalty.

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Niclas Fuellkrug powered in a fourth midway through the second half after coming on as a substitute and not even a late own goal from Antonio Ruediger could spoil an otherwise perfect start to the campaign for Germany.

There was even time for Emre Can to add a fifth goal with the final kick of the game.

<h2>- Disastrous Scottish start -</h2>

Scotland could surely not have envisioned such a disastrous beginning, but they must regroup quickly with games to come in Group A against Switzerland and Hungary.

"Today was hugely disappointing but you're playing against the host nation and it's the first game... things don't get much tougher than that," said Scotland captain Andy Robertson.

After three successive failures at major tournaments, including back-to-back group stage exits at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, this was a statement of intent from an experienced Germany side.

It is Germany's first men's major tournament as hosts since the 2006 World Cup, and they are looking to recreate the magic that helped rekindle the passion for the national team then.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann had spoken of his players' hunger to atone for the shortcomings of recent times, with the outlook improving and optimism gradually increasing since his appointment in September.

His counterpart Steve Clarke on the other hand urged Scotland to "fear no one" going into the country's second straight Euros after more than two decades in the international wilderness.

Almost right away Germany took the game to a Scotland side who arrived in Munich with only one win from their past nine matches -- an unimpressive 2-0 victory over lowly Gibraltar last week.

<h3>- Germany hit the ground running -</h3>

Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn alertly blocked from an offside Wirtz, but Germany soon grasped the match by the scruff of the neck.

Toni Kroos, coaxed out of his Germany retirement earlier this year, pinged a ball out to Joshua Kimmich, who teed up Wirtz to sweep in from the edge of the area as Gunn could only help the shot in via the post.

Kroos will hang up his boots for good after the tournament, but with him and Gundogan running the Germany midfield they bring a level of knowledge and maturity few can match.

Gundogan threaded a pass through the Scotland defence to Havertz, who worked it back towards Musiala, the Bayern Munich attacker creating himself space to crash a strike into the roof of the net.

Germany were initially awarded a penalty as Musiala went down in a heap after getting caught between Ryan Christie and Kieran Tierney, but referee Clement Turpin deemed the foul occurred outside the area after consulting the touchline monitor.

That merely delayed Germany's third goal, which did eventually come from the spot following another VAR review that led to Porteous being sent off for a crude challenge on Gundogan.

Havertz calmly sent Gunn the wrong way and any remaining optimism drained away from Scotland's once boisterous and sizeable travelling contingent of supporters.

Scotland tried to limit the damage in the second half, but there was no stopping Fuellkrug's thumping drive into the top corner within a few minutes of his introduction as a replacement for Havertz.

The only bright spot for Scotland came three minutes from time as Ruediger inadvertently diverted Scott McKenna's header past goalkeeper Manuel Neuer.

And there was still more punishment to come as substitute Can curled home from 20 yards at the death to cap a glorious night for the Germans.

Reigning European champions Italy, who failed to qualify for the last World Cup, get their title defence under way on Saturday against Albania in Dortmund.

Before that Spain take on Croatia in the opening Group B fixture in Berlin, but the day's first match is between Hungary and Switzerland in Cologne.

Germany thrashed 10-man Scotland 5-1 as the Euro 2024 hosts kicked off the tournament in style in Munich on Friday, the start of a journey they hope culminates in a record fourth continental title.

Germany thrashed 10-man Scotland 5-1 as the Euro 2024 hosts kicked off the tournament in style in Munich on Friday, the start of a journey they hope culminates in a record fourth continental title. Florian Wirtz struck the opening goal 10 minutes in and Jamal Musiala soon doubled Germany's lead with an emphatic finish. "We couldn't have had a better start. We've seen the atmosphere in the country, and we need that," Musiala said of Germany's lightning start. A long-awaited night for Scotland went from bad to worse before half-time when Ryan Porteous was sent off for a two-footed challenge on Ilkay Gundogan, with Kai Havertz tucking away the resulting penalty. ALSO READ: Official: Nuri Sahin succeeds Edin Terzic as new Borussia Dortmund head coach Niclas Fuellkrug powered in a fourth midway through the second half after coming on as a substitute and not even a late own goal from Antonio Ruediger could spoil an otherwise perfect start to the campaign for Germany. There was even time for Emre Can to add a fifth goal with the final kick of the game. - Disastrous Scottish start - Scotland could surely not have envisioned such a disastrous beginning, but they must regroup quickly with games to come in Group A against Switzerland and Hungary. "Today was hugely disappointing but you're playing against the host nation and it's the first game... things don't get much tougher than that," said Scotland captain Andy Robertson. After three successive failures at major tournaments, including back-to-back group stage exits at the 2018 and 2022 World Cups, this was a statement of intent from an experienced Germany side. It is Germany's first men's major tournament as hosts since the 2006 World Cup, and they are looking to recreate the magic that helped rekindle the passion for the national team then. Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann had spoken of his players' hunger to atone for the shortcomings of recent times, with the outlook improving and optimism gradually increasing since his appointment in September. His counterpart Steve Clarke on the other hand urged Scotland to "fear no one" going into the country's second straight Euros after more than two decades in the international wilderness. Almost right away Germany took the game to a Scotland side who arrived in Munich with only one win from their past nine matches -- an unimpressive 2-0 victory over lowly Gibraltar last week. - Germany hit the ground running - Scotland goalkeeper Angus Gunn alertly blocked from an offside Wirtz, but Germany soon grasped the match by the scruff of the neck. Toni Kroos, coaxed out of his Germany retirement earlier this year, pinged a ball out to Joshua Kimmich, who teed up Wirtz to sweep in from the edge of the area as Gunn could only help the shot in via the post. Kroos will hang up his boots for good after the tournament, but with him and Gundogan running the Germany midfield they bring a level of knowledge and maturity few can match. Gundogan threaded a pass through the Scotland defence to Havertz, who worked it back towards Musiala, the Bayern Munich attacker creating himself space to crash a strike into the roof of the net. Germany were initially awarded a penalty as Musiala went down in a heap after getting caught between Ryan Christie and Kieran Tierney, but referee Clement Turpin deemed the foul occurred outside the area after consulting the touchline monitor. That merely delayed Germany's third goal, which did eventually come from the spot following another VAR review that led to Porteous being sent off for a crude challenge on Gundogan. Havertz calmly sent Gunn the wrong way and any remaining optimism drained away from Scotland's once boisterous and sizeable travelling contingent of supporters. Scotland tried to limit the damage in the second half, but there was no stopping Fuellkrug's thumping drive into the top corner within a few minutes of his introduction as a replacement for Havertz. The only bright spot for Scotland came three minutes from time as Ruediger inadvertently diverted Scott McKenna's header past goalkeeper Manuel Neuer. And there was still more punishment to come as substitute Can curled home from 20 yards at the death to cap a glorious night for the Germans. Reigning European champions Italy, who failed to qualify for the last World Cup, get their title defence under way on Saturday against Albania in Dortmund. Before that Spain take on Croatia in the opening Group B fixture in Berlin, but the day's first match is between Hungary and Switzerland in Cologne.

Hosts Germany crush 10-man Scotland in Euro 2024 opener

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said Scotland are a dangerous team who will aim to take advantage of the pressure the hosts are under when they meet in Friday's Euro 2024 opener, but he sees self belief in his players and hunger for success.

"Scotland isn't a team full of world stars, but that makes them dangerous, because they are very agile players who give everything, with classic Scottish mentality," he told a press conference on Thursday.

While Germany do feel the pressure and tension ahead of the tournament's opening game, that was necessary, Nagelsmann added, and the team is fully fit and prepared.

"When I look in my players' eyes ... I see a lot of belief and a lot of confidence, which is what I want ... we have the home advantage, we want to win."

"We can beat pressure, and we can beat Scotland as well."

ALSO READ:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-abusing-england-players-online-could-land-fans-in-trouble-heres-how-731508">Euro 2024: Abusing England players online could land fans in trouble. Here's how</a>

Germany have won four World Cups and three European Championship titles but their stellar tournament reputation has been somewhat tarnished with a series of failures since their 2014 World Cup victory in Brazil.

They went out of the next two World Cups in the group stage, their worst showing in over 80 years, and exited the last Euros in the round of 16.

"We will have more pressure on us than Scotland and they will want to capitalise on that," said Nagelsmann, who took over as Germany manager in October 2023.

Scotland can create chances and retain ball possession and will put the Germany defence under stress in the Group A match. "We have to stay focused to avoid crosses," he added.

Nagelsmann said he was feeling emotional ahead of the match, describing how he comes from a tiny village with 700 inhabitants and more cows than people, and now was preparing for the opening game of Euro 2024 in Munich.

Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan said Nagelsmann gave the players clarity and conveyed a sense of calm which had helped the team.

"The coach gives us confidence, a clear direction, he has discussed roles with us ... everyone knows what is expected of them and can give their all on the pitch, and that helps us a great deal after the negative experiences of the last tournaments.

"No other game is like the first one, because then you can use that momentum and that euphoria for the next few games, and that is why the most important objective tomorrow is to win the game," he said.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said Scotland are a dangerous team who will aim to take advantage of the pressure the hosts are under when they meet in Friday's Euro 2024 opener, but he sees self belief in his players and hunger for success.

Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann said Scotland are a dangerous team who will aim to take advantage of the pressure the hosts are under when they meet in Friday's Euro 2024 opener, but he sees self belief in his players and hunger for success. "Scotland isn't a team full of world stars, but that makes them dangerous, because they are very agile players who give everything, with classic Scottish mentality," he told a press conference on Thursday. While Germany do feel the pressure and tension ahead of the tournament's opening game, that was necessary, Nagelsmann added, and the team is fully fit and prepared. "When I look in my players' eyes ... I see a lot of belief and a lot of confidence, which is what I want ... we have the home advantage, we want to win." "We can beat pressure, and we can beat Scotland as well." ALSO READ: Euro 2024: Abusing England players online could land fans in trouble. Here's how Germany have won four World Cups and three European Championship titles but their stellar tournament reputation has been somewhat tarnished with a series of failures since their 2014 World Cup victory in Brazil. They went out of the next two World Cups in the group stage, their worst showing in over 80 years, and exited the last Euros in the round of 16. "We will have more pressure on us than Scotland and they will want to capitalise on that," said Nagelsmann, who took over as Germany manager in October 2023. Scotland can create chances and retain ball possession and will put the Germany defence under stress in the Group A match. "We have to stay focused to avoid crosses," he added. Nagelsmann said he was feeling emotional ahead of the match, describing how he comes from a tiny village with 700 inhabitants and more cows than people, and now was preparing for the opening game of Euro 2024 in Munich. Germany captain Ilkay Gundogan said Nagelsmann gave the players clarity and conveyed a sense of calm which had helped the team. "The coach gives us confidence, a clear direction, he has discussed roles with us ... everyone knows what is expected of them and can give their all on the pitch, and that helps us a great deal after the negative experiences of the last tournaments. "No other game is like the first one, because then you can use that momentum and that euphoria for the next few games, and that is why the most important objective tomorrow is to win the game," he said.

Julian Nagelsmann backs Germany to beat pressure and Scotland in Euro 2024 opener

Euro 2024 will kick start with hosts Germany squaring&nbsp;off against Scotland in the opening contest&nbsp;at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Friday (June 14). The game will be Scotland’s first competitive tournament match on foreign soil since the 1998 World Cup in France. Ahead of the match, Scotland manager Steve Clarke suggested that his team will respect Germany, who have won the tournament on three occasions, but also emphasised that his side will not fear anyone.

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Numbers don't lie: <a href="https://twitter.com/esmuellert_?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@esmuellert_</a> international stats speak volumes. 📈🔥 <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/DFB?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#DFB</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GermanFootball?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GermanFootball</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/GermanMNT?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#GermanMNT</a> <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EURO2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EURO2024</a> 
📸 Getty Images <a href="https://t.co/i4GaaVXi3N">pic.twitter.com/i4GaaVXi3N</a>
— German Football (@DFB_Team_EN) <a href="https://twitter.com/DFB_Team_EN/status/1801314749130432995?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">June 13, 2024</a></blockquote>
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<h2>Clarke ready for German&nbsp;challenge</h2>

"We know it's a big game but, for us, it's the opening game of a four-team section, three matches and we know what we have to do to qualify out the section and that's all we're focused on," Clarke said at a pre-match press conference on Thursday.

"The enormity of the opening game is a little bit of a sideshow and hopefully we don't get too involved in that.

"For sure, it's a difficult game. One of the mantras I've always had is to respect everyone and fear no one so we come here with a lot of respect for the host nation, we know they're a good team but hopefully on the night we can show we're a good team too,” Clarke added.

Friday’s opener will be important for both sides as they look to start on a winning note in Munich. Germany will head into the contest as the favourites but Scotland have all the elements to cause an upset on the big stage.

<h3>Head-to-head record</h3>

Matches: 17

Germany wins: 8

Draws: 5

Scotland wins: 4

Interestingly, Scotland have not beaten Germany since April 1999 when the two teams met in a friendly match. Also, Scotland have never won a competitive meeting against Germany which makes an interesting reading for the home fans.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/julian-nagelsmann-backs-germany-to-beat-pressure-and-scotland-in-euro-2024-opener-731580">Julian Nagelsmann backs Germany to beat pressure and Scotland in Euro 2024 opener</a>

<h2>Match Details</h2>

What Time Will Germany vs Scotland Start?

The Group A Match between Germany and Scotland will start at 8 pm GMT on Friday (June 14). In India, the kickoff time of the match is 12:30 am IST (early hours of Saturday, June 15).

Where to Watch GER vs SCO Group A Match? Where Can I Watch Germany vs Scotland on TV in India?

The Group A Match between Germany and Scotland will be telecast on Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 2 HD while Sony Liv App is the live streaming partner.

Euro 2024 will kick start with hosts Germany squaring off against Scotland in the opening contest at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Friday (June 14). The game will be Scotland’s first competitive tournament match on foreign soil since the 1998 World Cup in France.

Euro 2024 will kick start with hosts Germany squaring off against Scotland in the opening contest at the Allianz Arena in Munich on Friday (June 14). The game will be Scotland’s first competitive tournament match on foreign soil since the 1998 World Cup in France. Ahead of the match, Scotland manager Steve Clarke suggested that his team will respect Germany, who have won the tournament on three occasions, but also emphasised that his side will not fear anyone. Numbers don't lie: @esmuellert_ international stats speak volumes. 📈🔥 #DFB #GermanFootball #GermanMNT #EURO2024 📸 Getty Images pic.twitter.com/i4GaaVXi3N — German Football (@DFB_Team_EN) June 13, 2024 × Clarke ready for German challenge "We know it's a big game but, for us, it's the opening game of a four-team section, three matches and we know what we have to do to qualify out the section and that's all we're focused on," Clarke said at a pre-match press conference on Thursday. "The enormity of the opening game is a little bit of a sideshow and hopefully we don't get too involved in that. "For sure, it's a difficult game. One of the mantras I've always had is to respect everyone and fear no one so we come here with a lot of respect for the host nation, we know they're a good team but hopefully on the night we can show we're a good team too,” Clarke added. Friday’s opener will be important for both sides as they look to start on a winning note in Munich. Germany will head into the contest as the favourites but Scotland have all the elements to cause an upset on the big stage. Head-to-head record Matches: 17 Germany wins: 8 Draws: 5 Scotland wins: 4 Interestingly, Scotland have not beaten Germany since April 1999 when the two teams met in a friendly match. Also, Scotland have never won a competitive meeting against Germany which makes an interesting reading for the home fans. ALSO READ | Julian Nagelsmann backs Germany to beat pressure and Scotland in Euro 2024 opener Match Details What Time Will Germany vs Scotland Start? The Group A Match between Germany and Scotland will start at 8 pm GMT on Friday (June 14). In India, the kickoff time of the match is 12:30 am IST (early hours of Saturday, June 15). Where to Watch GER vs SCO Group A Match? Where Can I Watch Germany vs Scotland on TV in India? The Group A Match between Germany and Scotland will be telecast on Sony Sports Ten 2, Sony Sports Ten 2 HD while Sony Liv App is the live streaming partner.

Euro 2024: Steve Clarke reveals success mantra ahead of Scotland opener, says 'respect everyone, fear no one'

In an attempt to clamp down online social media abuse against the English players, the Football Association (FA) has funded&nbsp;a special unit within the British police. The officers under the newly formed unit will be able to prosecute anyone who abuses the England players.&nbsp;&nbsp;

FA’s chief executive, Mark Bullingham informed about the new move which has been well-received within the footballing circles. According to reports, the FA has provided 25,000 pounds ($32,000) to help police.

“In the past what we did was put together all the data, effectively an evidence pack, to give to the police to prosecute. But this time we have gone a stage further where we are actually funding a unit within the British police that will then prosecute," said Bullingham.&nbsp;

"What we don’t want to do is create a pack that we then give to the police for them to prosecute but they don’t have the resource to actually take that forward. So we are paying for the prosecution to then happen and funding the police to make sure if there are instances of the examples we have seen before, they get prosecuted," he further said.

England's top player viz.&nbsp;Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho were abused mercilessly by the trolls at the last Euros after they&nbsp;missed penalties in the final of the tournament against Italy.&nbsp;

The British police will also look to set a precedence, especially after three fans&nbsp;in Spain were sentenced to&nbsp;eight months in prison and banned from stadiums for two years for racially abusing Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior at Mestalla.

Apart from the special unit,&nbsp;more than 1,600 England fans with football banning orders had been forced to surrender their passports to the police from June 4 till the final on July 14.&nbsp; 
 
<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fans-slam-wayne-rooney-for-lazy-uninformed-opinion-on-england-stars-euro-2024-position-731441">Also read |&nbsp;Fans slam Wayne Rooney for 'lazy, uninformed' opinion on England star's Euro 2024 position</a>

<h2>Security raised&nbsp;</h2>

Security has been raised for England's opening match against Serbia&nbsp;at the Veltins Arena, Gelsenkirchen &nbsp;- home to Bundesliga 2 club Schalke, on Sunday (Jun 15).&nbsp;As many as 40,000 English fans are expected to travel to the match while between 5,000 to 8,000 Serbian supporters will also be present in the west German city.

Intel reports indicate that a squad of 500 Serbian hooligans might attempt to engage in a&nbsp;violent confrontation against the English supporters.

Apart from the violence by fans or ultra groups, the organisers are also worried of the risk of a terrorist attack or an attempt by Russia to stir violence.&nbsp;

England's squad for the Euros&nbsp;

Goalkeepers:&nbsp;Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal) 
 
Defenders:&nbsp;Lewis Dunk (Brighton &amp; Hove Albion), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United), Kyle Walker (Manchester City) 
 
Midfielders:&nbsp;Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) 
 
Forwards:&nbsp;Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), &nbsp;Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

In an attempt to clamp down online social media abuse against the English players, the Football Association (FA) has funded a special unit within the British police.

In an attempt to clamp down online social media abuse against the English players, the Football Association (FA) has funded a special unit within the British police. The officers under the newly formed unit will be able to prosecute anyone who abuses the England players. FA’s chief executive, Mark Bullingham informed about the new move which has been well-received within the footballing circles. According to reports, the FA has provided 25,000 pounds ($32,000) to help police. “In the past what we did was put together all the data, effectively an evidence pack, to give to the police to prosecute. But this time we have gone a stage further where we are actually funding a unit within the British police that will then prosecute," said Bullingham. "What we don’t want to do is create a pack that we then give to the police for them to prosecute but they don’t have the resource to actually take that forward. So we are paying for the prosecution to then happen and funding the police to make sure if there are instances of the examples we have seen before, they get prosecuted," he further said. England's top player viz. Bukayo Saka, Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho were abused mercilessly by the trolls at the last Euros after they missed penalties in the final of the tournament against Italy. The British police will also look to set a precedence, especially after three fans in Spain were sentenced to eight months in prison and banned from stadiums for two years for racially abusing Real Madrid player Vinicius Junior at Mestalla. Apart from the special unit, more than 1,600 England fans with football banning orders had been forced to surrender their passports to the police from June 4 till the final on July 14. Also read | Fans slam Wayne Rooney for 'lazy, uninformed' opinion on England star's Euro 2024 position Security raised Security has been raised for England's opening match against Serbia at the Veltins Arena, Gelsenkirchen - home to Bundesliga 2 club Schalke, on Sunday (Jun 15). As many as 40,000 English fans are expected to travel to the match while between 5,000 to 8,000 Serbian supporters will also be present in the west German city. Intel reports indicate that a squad of 500 Serbian hooligans might attempt to engage in a violent confrontation against the English supporters. Apart from the violence by fans or ultra groups, the organisers are also worried of the risk of a terrorist attack or an attempt by Russia to stir violence. England's squad for the Euros Goalkeepers: Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal) Defenders: Lewis Dunk (Brighton & Hove Albion), Joe Gomez (Liverpool), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Luke Shaw (Manchester United), John Stones (Manchester City), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle United), Kyle Walker (Manchester City) Midfielders: Trent Alexander-Arnold (Liverpool), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Declan Rice (Arsenal), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace) Forwards: Jarrod Bowen (West Ham United), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace), Phil Foden (Manchester City), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle United), Harry Kane (Bayern Munich), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa)

Euro 2024: Abusing England players online could land fans in trouble. Here's how

A squad of 500 Serbian hooligans is expected to engage in violent conduct at England's first match at Euro 2024 on Sunday (Jun 15), according to a report in the Guardian.

A squad of 500 Serbian hooligans is expected to engage in violent conduct at England's first match at Euro 2024 on Sunday (Jun 15), according to a report in the Guardian. England play Serbia at the Veltins Arena, Gelsenkirchen - home to Bundesliga 2 club Schalke to kickstart their tournament. As many as 40,000 English fans are expected to travel to the match while between 5,000 to 8,000 Serbian supporters will also be present in the west German city. Peter Both, the chief of police in Gelsenkirchen said although German police did not have concrete intelligence, it believed that 'up to 400 or 500 violence-seeking Serbians' will travel to Germany. “I guess the biggest challenge for us will be to identify violent, disruptive groups at an early stage, to separate them from peaceful and law-abiding fans, that will be our biggest challenge," Both was quoted as saying. Both said German police had brilliant cooperation with the UK authorities and that some known hooligans from England would be blocked from travelling to ensure there is no escalation, at least from the English side. The report added that more than 1,600 England fans with football banning orders had been forced to surrender their passports to the police from June 4 till the final on July 14. Apart from the violence by fans or ultra groups, the organisers are also worried of the risk of a terrorist attack or an attempt by Russia to stir violence. Also read | 'Kind of everyone’s fault': Luke Shaw slams Manchester United medical team for recurring injury ahead of Euros England face reality check Gareth Southgate's men are among the favourites to win the tournament in Germany but they had a shaky farewell when Iceland defeated them 1-0 at Wembley last Friday (Jun 7). The visitor took a surprising early lead through Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson and had numerous chances to extend their advantage as the hosts toiled at both ends of the pitch. After the defeat, England captain Kane said lessons have to be learned ahead of their Group C opener against Serbia. "Sometimes you need this wake-up call. There are areas we need to improve, especially with our pressure," said Kane. "The group games are going to be very similar to this. We are going to have to defend well, especially the longer balls, and with the ball we need to be a bit more patient." England are yet to settle on a final playing XI that will take the field on the weekend, as Gareth Southgate sweats over the fitness of only left-back in the squad, Luke Shaw. (With inputs from agencies)

Euro 2024: 500 Serbians to engage in violence at England's first match in Germany - Report

Lionel Messi has clapped back at Kylian Mbappe's recent comments that the European Championship was tougher to win than Copa America. The former Paris Saint-Germain teammates have had contrasting views about the continental championships with Mbappe being a vocal critic of South American football in general.

Lionel Messi has clapped back at Kylian Mbappe's recent comments that the European Championship was tougher to win than Copa America. The former Paris Saint-Germain teammates have had contrasting views about the continental championships with Mbappe being a vocal critic of South American football in general. Speaking to ESPN in an interview, Messi gently reminded Mbappe that multiple times World Cup winners were from South America and were not playing Euros. "Well, everybody prioritises their tournament," Messi said. "Obviously, the Euro is very important and has the best teams, but he's leaving out three-time champion Argentina, five-time champion Brazil, two-time champion Uruguay. There are a lot of world champions left off to say that it's the most difficult tournament. "The best teams play in the World Cup, which generally includes all the world champions. There's a reason everybody wants to be champion," he added. Ahead of the Euros that start on June 14, Mbappe stirred up controversy by comparing the competitive nature of the tournament with Copa America. “I consider the Euros more complicated than the World Cup, more complicated to win. If we talk about level, the Euros is more difficult because we are so used to play against each other. Tactically, it is similar football," said Mbappe. Mbappe's previous statement Notably, it wasn't the first instance that Mbappe had taken a dig at South American football for being 'inferior'. In the lead-up to the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, Mbappe made similar comments but was made to eat the humble pie by Messi's Argentina in the final. "Argentina haven't played games of great quality to reach the World Cup. In South America football isn't as advanced as Europe. That's why if you look at the last World Cups it's always the Europeans that win," Mbappe had said at the time. Also read | 'He doesn't know enough about football': Emiliano Martinez about Kylian Mbappe ahead of the final Mbappe was slammed even then for his statement with players like Lautaro Martinez and former Brazil coach Tite gently reminding the Frenchman to not make such unfair comparisons when conditions and opposition were starkly different. Emiliano Martinez, the Argentine goalkeeper and hero of the World Cup final said Mbappe did not know enough about South American football to comment. “He doesn’t know enough about football. He never played in South America. When you don’t have this experience, it may be better not to talk about it. But it doesn’t matter. We are a great team, recognised as such," Martinez said. (With inputs from agencies)

Lionel Messi schools Kylian Mbappe after new Real Madrid star makes absurd Euro-Copa America comparison

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Activity in Football-Linked tokens grow<o:p></o:p></h2>

As football mania spreads across Europe and the Americas, a small but buzzy segment of the cryptoverse takes centre stage: fan tokens. These are not your typical digital assets; they are tokens issued by national teams or individual clubs that promise fans a tradeable means to interact with their teams.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Rising market value of Chiliz cryptocurrency<o:p></o:p></h2>

Token activity concerning participating national teams has surged ahead of the Euro 2024 European football championship, which begins on Friday, and the Copa América in North and South America, which starts a week later. The market value of the Chiliz cryptocurrency, the native coin of the Socios blockchain that hosts the most important fan tokens, has risen to nearly $1.07 billion from $687 million at the beginning of the year. This rise is approaching levels last seen before the 2022 World Cup, according to CoinGecko.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Increasing trading volumes<o:p></o:p></h2>

Trading volumes for fan tokens have also increased in recent months, reaching more than $170 million on May 24, up from $25 million to $57 million for the whole of January, according to Kaiko data. The total market value of listed fan tokens is approximately $413 million, according to CoinGecko data. This summer of sports could be a litmus test for the still-developing industry of fan tokens, which often provide benefits such as lottery entries, early ticket access, product discounts, or the ability to vote on small choices such as match tunes.<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Supporters and critics weigh in<o:p></o:p></h2>

Supporters hail the tokens as a rare example of real-world crypto utility, while detractors point out contradictions between the stated goal of team participation and the speculative—and risky—nature of tradable assets. A Chiliz spokeswoman stated that the company's marketing made it clear that "fan tokens are fan-engagement tools and should be used as such."<o:p></o:p>

<h2 class="MsoNormal">Future of fan tokens<o:p></o:p></h2>

The price of Portugal's fan token has risen by around 2% in the last 30 days to $2.94, while Argentina's token temporarily reached its highest level since 2022 at $2.46—though both are still trading below their peaks set around the 2022 World Cup. "There has been a significant increase in trading volumes, but we expect it to be short-lived," said Jag Kooner, head of derivatives at Bitfinex, predicting a dip in trade after the World Cup.<o:p></o:p>

The fan token market is headed for an interesting test this summer, as major football tournaments could either boost or promote the sector's speculative nature.<o:p></o:p>

(With inputs from Agencies)<o:p></o:p>

Activity in Football-Linked tokens grow As football mania spreads across Europe and the Americas, a small but buzzy segment of the cryptoverse takes centre stage: fan tokens.

Activity in Football-Linked tokens grow As football mania spreads across Europe and the Americas, a small but buzzy segment of the cryptoverse takes centre stage: fan tokens. These are not your typical digital assets; they are tokens issued by national teams or individual clubs that promise fans a tradeable means to interact with their teams. Rising market value of Chiliz cryptocurrency Token activity concerning participating national teams has surged ahead of the Euro 2024 European football championship, which begins on Friday, and the Copa América in North and South America, which starts a week later. The market value of the Chiliz cryptocurrency, the native coin of the Socios blockchain that hosts the most important fan tokens, has risen to nearly $1.07 billion from $687 million at the beginning of the year. This rise is approaching levels last seen before the 2022 World Cup, according to CoinGecko. Increasing trading volumes Trading volumes for fan tokens have also increased in recent months, reaching more than $170 million on May 24, up from $25 million to $57 million for the whole of January, according to Kaiko data. The total market value of listed fan tokens is approximately $413 million, according to CoinGecko data. This summer of sports could be a litmus test for the still-developing industry of fan tokens, which often provide benefits such as lottery entries, early ticket access, product discounts, or the ability to vote on small choices such as match tunes. Supporters and critics weigh in Supporters hail the tokens as a rare example of real-world crypto utility, while detractors point out contradictions between the stated goal of team participation and the speculative—and risky—nature of tradable assets. A Chiliz spokeswoman stated that the company's marketing made it clear that "fan tokens are fan-engagement tools and should be used as such." Future of fan tokens The price of Portugal's fan token has risen by around 2% in the last 30 days to $2.94, while Argentina's token temporarily reached its highest level since 2022 at $2.46—though both are still trading below their peaks set around the 2022 World Cup. "There has been a significant increase in trading volumes, but we expect it to be short-lived," said Jag Kooner, head of derivatives at Bitfinex, predicting a dip in trade after the World Cup. The fan token market is headed for an interesting test this summer, as major football tournaments could either boost or promote the sector's speculative nature. (With inputs from Agencies)

Fan tokens surge ahead of Euro 2024 and Copa América

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice for Portugal as they comfortably beat the Republic of Ireland 3-0 on Tuesday in their final Euro 2024 warm-up friendly.

Joao Felix was also on target as Roberto Martinez's side bounced back from a defeat by Croatia last week to build confidence for the tournament in Germany.

Ronaldo, 39, watched that match from the bench but started against Ireland in Aveiro and came close in the first half before dismantling the visitors in the second.

Veteran defender Pepe, 41, set to become the oldest player ever to play at the Euros, also started.

Euro 2016 winners Portugal qualified with a 100 percent record but recent performances had allowed some doubts to creep in.

"The Portuguese expect a lot from Portugal, there's no margin for error, none, they always want Portugal to win because of the generation, the talent there is," said Ronaldo.

"We have to have our feet on the ground and our thoughts in the sky, dreaming of the Euros."&nbsp;

Ronaldo will appear at a record sixth edition of the tournament, having played in his first back in 2004.

"Going back to 2004... my thoughts and my pride remain the same," said Ronaldo.

"Playing for the Portuguese national team, it doesn't get better than this.

"For the Euros we have to think positively, this team has to dream and has been working hard, because just having talent is no use if there's no hard work."

Felix broke the deadlock with a smart finish after a short corner routine in the 18th minute.

Ronaldo almost made it two but his deflected free-kick struck the post.

The Al-Nassr striker appealed for a penalty after falling under pressure and then fired a decent opening straight at Caoimhin Kelleher towards the end of the first half.

Ronaldo did not have to wait much longer to score, pouncing soon after the break with a sublime effort curled into the top corner.

The former Real Madrid marksman soon grabbed another after Diogo Jota found him well placed in the area.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/why-is-erik-ten-hag-growing-frustrated-with-manchester-united-board-report-reveals-730849">Why is Erik ten Hag growing 'frustrated' with Manchester United board? Report reveals...</a>

Ronaldo netted a record-extending 130th international goal with another confident finish.

The striker fired inches wide when he might have completed his hat-trick as Ireland, under interim coach John O'Shea, began to tire, although Portugal could not add to their lead.

"The game against Croatia served to bring us down a peg and today we did a great job, it's about following this line," said Felix.

"We have 100 percent confidence on the way to Germany."

Euro 2024 begins on Friday and Portugal's first match is against the Czech Republic on June 18, before facing Turkey and Georgia in Group F.

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice for Portugal as they comfortably beat the Republic of Ireland 3-0 on Tuesday in their final Euro 2024 warm-up friendly. Joao Felix was also on target as Roberto Martinez's side bounced back from a defeat by Croatia last week to build confidence for the tournament in Germany.

Cristiano Ronaldo struck twice for Portugal as they comfortably beat the Republic of Ireland 3-0 on Tuesday in their final Euro 2024 warm-up friendly. Joao Felix was also on target as Roberto Martinez's side bounced back from a defeat by Croatia last week to build confidence for the tournament in Germany. Ronaldo, 39, watched that match from the bench but started against Ireland in Aveiro and came close in the first half before dismantling the visitors in the second. Veteran defender Pepe, 41, set to become the oldest player ever to play at the Euros, also started. Euro 2016 winners Portugal qualified with a 100 percent record but recent performances had allowed some doubts to creep in. "The Portuguese expect a lot from Portugal, there's no margin for error, none, they always want Portugal to win because of the generation, the talent there is," said Ronaldo. "We have to have our feet on the ground and our thoughts in the sky, dreaming of the Euros." Ronaldo will appear at a record sixth edition of the tournament, having played in his first back in 2004. "Going back to 2004... my thoughts and my pride remain the same," said Ronaldo. "Playing for the Portuguese national team, it doesn't get better than this. "For the Euros we have to think positively, this team has to dream and has been working hard, because just having talent is no use if there's no hard work." Felix broke the deadlock with a smart finish after a short corner routine in the 18th minute. Ronaldo almost made it two but his deflected free-kick struck the post. The Al-Nassr striker appealed for a penalty after falling under pressure and then fired a decent opening straight at Caoimhin Kelleher towards the end of the first half. Ronaldo did not have to wait much longer to score, pouncing soon after the break with a sublime effort curled into the top corner. The former Real Madrid marksman soon grabbed another after Diogo Jota found him well placed in the area. ALSO READ | Why is Erik ten Hag growing 'frustrated' with Manchester United board? Report reveals... Ronaldo netted a record-extending 130th international goal with another confident finish. The striker fired inches wide when he might have completed his hat-trick as Ireland, under interim coach John O'Shea, began to tire, although Portugal could not add to their lead. "The game against Croatia served to bring us down a peg and today we did a great job, it's about following this line," said Felix. "We have 100 percent confidence on the way to Germany." Euro 2024 begins on Friday and Portugal's first match is against the Czech Republic on June 18, before facing Turkey and Georgia in Group F.

Euro 2024: Cristiano Ronaldo double helps Portugal beat Ireland in final warm-up match

The Euros are just a couple of sleeps away as fans gear up to watch the football carnival for the next months in absence of club football. Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo remains the biggest crowd-puller in the competition as fans try to witness the great of the sport, giving possible one last go at another international trophy.

The Euros are just a couple of sleeps away as fans gear up to watch the football carnival for the next months in absence of club football. Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo remains the biggest crowd-puller in the competition as fans try to witness the great of the sport, giving possible one last go at another international trophy. The only hurdle for supporters is that tickets, not for the Euro fixtures but to only witness Ronaldo train are going for eye-watering prices, starting from $430 and going all the way up to $870. Portugal will face Czechia, Turkey, and Georgia in their group with the opening encounter scheduled for June 18. However, prior to the serious business, there will be an open training session on Friday (Jun 14), for which 6,000 free tickets have been allocated. According to an ESPN report, these tickets are now being resold at exorbitant prices. "There were several tickets offered for €400 ($430) while others were on sale for €800 ($870) on the German website kleinanzeigen," the report mentioned. Also read | Euro 2024: Cristiano Ronaldo double helps Portugal beat Ireland in final warm-up match Ronaldo is in the final stretch of his career and fans are eager to catch a glimpse of the megastar who no longer plays in the European leagues. Ronaldo has been in Saudi Arabia, playing for Saudi Pro League side Al-Nassr for the last couple of seasons, which means fans in Europe have been unable to watch him in action. The Portuguese is the leading goal scorer in men’s international football with 128 goals in 204 official matches. He will be playing his final Euros, having featured in six previous editions, winning one (2016) and finishing runners-up (2004) in another. The Al-Nassr star scored twice in the friendly match against Iceland on Tuesday (Jun 11) to indicate he was all prepared for the big tournament. "I know I don't have many years of football left. It's a gift to play year after year, after 35. I'm 39 and every year is about enjoying [myself]. To score for the national team is special. The national team is the love of my life, winning the Euros would be a dream," said Ronaldo after the match. Euro 2024 - ready reckoner The opening match of the continental tournament will see hosts Germany take on Scotland in Munich on June 14. The Euro 2024 final will take place on July 14 in the capital, Berlin. A total of 24 teams, divided into six groups will take part in the tournament, playing 51 matches in total. Ten cities have been chosen as venues across Germany – Berlin, Cologne, Dortmund, Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Gelsenkirchen, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich and Stuttgart. Groups and teams: Group A: Germany, Scotland, Hungary, Switzerland Group B: Spain, Croatia, Italy, Albania Group C: Slovenia, Denmark, Serbia, England Group D: Poland, Netherlands, Austria, France Group E: Belgium, Slovakia, Romania, Ukraine Group F: Turkey, Georgia, Portugal, Czech Republic (With inputs from agencies)

Euro 2024: Tickets to watch Cristiano Ronaldo train for Portugal selling at OUTRAGEOUS prices

The Netherlands have been handed a major blow in their Euro 2024 build-up as star midfielder Frenkie de Jong was ruled out due to an ankle injury on Monday (June 10). Netherlands, who won the Euro’s in 1988, are one of the top contenders to win the championships in Germany this year, but will have to do without the Barcelona midfielder. Xavi Simons will likely fill the void left by De Jong in the Starting XI, but no replacement has yet been announced by the Dutch in the original 26-man squad.

<h2>Frenkie de Jong ruled out of Euro 2024</h2>

"Everyone went straight to see him. It's hard for him, it's hard for us," Manchester City defender Nathan Ake said&nbsp;after the Dutch won 4-0 in a Euro warm-up in Rotterdam.

"Frenkie is an important player for us and he is super in the squad," Ake said.

"It's not a good sign," Ronald Koeman said. "We'll do tests and we'll see where he's at."

De Jong was picked in the Dutch squad despite suffering from an ankle issue with the hope that he would recover in time for the tournament opener. He had suffered the injury while playing for Barcelona against Real Madrid in La Liga. He was ruled out of the remaining La Liga season with the hope he could return in time for the Euro 2024.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-how-can-pakistan-still-qualify-for-super-8-after-loss-against-india-730556">T20 World Cup: How Pakistan can still qualify for Super 8 after loss against India</a>

The Netherlands will open their Euro 2024 campaign against Poland on June 16 before playing France and Austria. With them in the group of death, a poor start to the tournament could see them face elimination from the group stage.

<h2>Netherlands Euro 2024 squad</h2>

Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Brentford), Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord)

Defenders: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Stefan de Vrij (Inter), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur), Daley Blind (Girona), Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich), Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Denzel Dumfries (Inter), Lutsharel Geertruida (Feyenoord), Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen)

Midfielders: Teun Koopmeiners (Atalanta), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig), Joey Veerman (PSV), Jerdy Schouten (PSV), Gini Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq), Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan)

Forwards: Steven Bergwijn (Ajax), Memphis Depay (Atletico Madrid), Brian Brobbey (Ajax), Wout Weghorst (Hoffenheim), Donyell Malen (Borussia Dortmund), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)

The Netherlands have been handed a major blow in their Euro 2024 build-up as star midfielder Frenkie de Jong was ruled out due to an ankle injury on Monday (June 10).

The Netherlands have been handed a major blow in their Euro 2024 build-up as star midfielder Frenkie de Jong was ruled out due to an ankle injury on Monday (June 10). Netherlands, who won the Euro’s in 1988, are one of the top contenders to win the championships in Germany this year, but will have to do without the Barcelona midfielder. Xavi Simons will likely fill the void left by De Jong in the Starting XI, but no replacement has yet been announced by the Dutch in the original 26-man squad. Frenkie de Jong ruled out of Euro 2024 "Everyone went straight to see him. It's hard for him, it's hard for us," Manchester City defender Nathan Ake said after the Dutch won 4-0 in a Euro warm-up in Rotterdam. "Frenkie is an important player for us and he is super in the squad," Ake said. "It's not a good sign," Ronald Koeman said. "We'll do tests and we'll see where he's at." De Jong was picked in the Dutch squad despite suffering from an ankle issue with the hope that he would recover in time for the tournament opener. He had suffered the injury while playing for Barcelona against Real Madrid in La Liga. He was ruled out of the remaining La Liga season with the hope he could return in time for the Euro 2024. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: How Pakistan can still qualify for Super 8 after loss against India The Netherlands will open their Euro 2024 campaign against Poland on June 16 before playing France and Austria. With them in the group of death, a poor start to the tournament could see them face elimination from the group stage. Netherlands Euro 2024 squad Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen (Brighton), Mark Flekken (Brentford), Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord) Defenders: Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool), Stefan de Vrij (Inter), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur), Daley Blind (Girona), Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich), Nathan Ake (Manchester City), Denzel Dumfries (Inter), Lutsharel Geertruida (Feyenoord), Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen) Midfielders: Teun Koopmeiners (Atalanta), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool), Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig), Joey Veerman (PSV), Jerdy Schouten (PSV), Gini Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq), Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan) Forwards: Steven Bergwijn (Ajax), Memphis Depay (Atletico Madrid), Brian Brobbey (Ajax), Wout Weghorst (Hoffenheim), Donyell Malen (Borussia Dortmund), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool)

Euro 2024: Netherlands star Frenkie de Jong ruled out due to ankle injury in massive midfield blow

Poland captain Robert Lewandowski will miss his country's Euro 2024 opener this weekend with a thigh injury, the Polish football federation's doctor said on Tuesday (Jun 11).

Lewandowski, 35, will be absent to face the Netherlands on June 16 after suffering the injury in Monday's 2-1 win in a friendly against Turkey.

Poland then play Austria on June 21 and the tournament's joint favourites France four days later.

"We are doing everything so that Robert can play in the second match against Austria," doctor Jacek Jaroszewski said in a statement.

Barcelona forward Lewandowski was substituted after just 33 minutes on his 150th international appearance as Poland ended their Euro 2024 preparations with a victory.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/if-we-dont-win-i-probably-wont-be-here-anymore-england-manager-gareth-southgate-ahead-of-euro-2024-730736">Also read |&nbsp;'If we don’t win, I probably won’t be here anymore': England manager Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2024</a>

Following the game, Poland coach Michal Probierz had been upbeat about Lewandowski's injury, saying he was "optimistic" and "there shouldn't be a problem".&nbsp;

The absence of the former Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich player adds to the injury worries for Probierz.

Hellas Verona attacker Karol Swiderski sustained an ankle injury while celebrating the opening goal against Turkey.

Swiderski's club team-mate, defender Pawel Dawidowicz, strained his quadriceps during the game.

"After treatment, both players should return to full training within 3-4 days," Jaroszewski.

Probierz will be without another striker for the tournament after Arkadiusz Milik&nbsp;suffered a knee injury in the warmup victory against Ukraine on Friday.

The Italian club said Milik had undergone minor surgery, without stating the length of his absence.

Probierz's fit options in attack in his squad are Istanbul Basaksehir's Krzysztof Piatek and Antalyaspor's Adam Buksa.

The pair have 17 goals in 44 appearances for their country.

Poland are unbeaten in eight games and have reached the past three European Championship finals, making it to the quarter-finals in 2016.

Poland captain Robert Lewandowski will miss his country's Euro 2024 opener this weekend with a thigh injury, the Polish football federation's doctor said on Tuesday (Jun 11).

Poland captain Robert Lewandowski will miss his country's Euro 2024 opener this weekend with a thigh injury, the Polish football federation's doctor said on Tuesday (Jun 11). Lewandowski, 35, will be absent to face the Netherlands on June 16 after suffering the injury in Monday's 2-1 win in a friendly against Turkey. Poland then play Austria on June 21 and the tournament's joint favourites France four days later. "We are doing everything so that Robert can play in the second match against Austria," doctor Jacek Jaroszewski said in a statement. Barcelona forward Lewandowski was substituted after just 33 minutes on his 150th international appearance as Poland ended their Euro 2024 preparations with a victory. Also read | 'If we don’t win, I probably won’t be here anymore': England manager Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2024 Following the game, Poland coach Michal Probierz had been upbeat about Lewandowski's injury, saying he was "optimistic" and "there shouldn't be a problem". The absence of the former Borussia Dortmund and Bayern Munich player adds to the injury worries for Probierz. Hellas Verona attacker Karol Swiderski sustained an ankle injury while celebrating the opening goal against Turkey. Swiderski's club team-mate, defender Pawel Dawidowicz, strained his quadriceps during the game. "After treatment, both players should return to full training within 3-4 days," Jaroszewski. Probierz will be without another striker for the tournament after Arkadiusz Milik suffered a knee injury in the warmup victory against Ukraine on Friday. The Italian club said Milik had undergone minor surgery, without stating the length of his absence. Probierz's fit options in attack in his squad are Istanbul Basaksehir's Krzysztof Piatek and Antalyaspor's Adam Buksa. The pair have 17 goals in 44 appearances for their country. Poland are unbeaten in eight games and have reached the past three European Championship finals, making it to the quarter-finals in 2016.

Robert Lewandowski to miss Euro 2024 opener in setback for Poland

Poland's talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski came off injured on Monday after 32 minutes as they won their last Euro 2024 warm-up 2-1 against Turkey in Warsaw.

His strike partner in Hellas Verona's Karol Swiderski had already left the field after hurting his right ankle celebrating scoring the goal that gave Poland a 12th-minute lead.

Baris Yilmaz levelled for Turkey after 77 minutes but Nicola Zalewski scored a winner in added time.

Poland, who kick off their Euro campaign against the Netherlands on June 16, have already lost Juventus striker Arkadiusz Milik, who was injured against Ukraine on Friday.

He "underwent selective arthroscopic meniscectomy surgery on the medial meniscus of his left knee this morning," Juve said on Monday without giving a recovery timeline.

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"The player will begin his rehabilitation tomorrow with the aim of resuming competitive activity as soon as possible," they added.

Poland are in Group D at Euro 2024 and after the Netherlands they face Austria and France. &nbsp;

Captain Lewandowski, who has scored 82 times in 149 games for his country, is 35 and would be appearing in his fourth European Championship.&nbsp;

Turkey are in Group F and face Georgia on June 18, followed by Portugal and the Czech Republic.

Poland's talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski came off injured on Monday after 32 minutes as they won their last Euro 2024 warm-up 2-1 against Turkey in Warsaw.

Poland's talismanic striker Robert Lewandowski came off injured on Monday after 32 minutes as they won their last Euro 2024 warm-up 2-1 against Turkey in Warsaw. His strike partner in Hellas Verona's Karol Swiderski had already left the field after hurting his right ankle celebrating scoring the goal that gave Poland a 12th-minute lead. Baris Yilmaz levelled for Turkey after 77 minutes but Nicola Zalewski scored a winner in added time. Poland, who kick off their Euro campaign against the Netherlands on June 16, have already lost Juventus striker Arkadiusz Milik, who was injured against Ukraine on Friday. He "underwent selective arthroscopic meniscectomy surgery on the medial meniscus of his left knee this morning," Juve said on Monday without giving a recovery timeline. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: How Pakistan can still qualify for Super 8 after loss against India "The player will begin his rehabilitation tomorrow with the aim of resuming competitive activity as soon as possible," they added. Poland are in Group D at Euro 2024 and after the Netherlands they face Austria and France. Captain Lewandowski, who has scored 82 times in 149 games for his country, is 35 and would be appearing in his fourth European Championship. Turkey are in Group F and face Georgia on June 18, followed by Portugal and the Czech Republic.

Euro 2024: Poland striker worries worsen as Robert Lewandowski limps off before tournament opener

England manager Gareth Southgate will have unfinished business at the upcoming Euro 2024 as he aims for his maiden trophy with the national side. Southgate, who will take charge of his second European Championship&nbsp;with the Three Lions will be out of contract at the end of the year and will try to clinch the Euro 2024 title. However, he has reckoned that if he does not succeed with the national side and fails to land England’s first international men’s trophy in 58 years, he will be sacked.

<h2>Southgate opens up on future</h2>

"If we don’t win, I probably won’t be here anymore. It might be the last chance,” Southgate said in an interview with the German publication Bild.

"I think about half of the national coaches leave after a tournament – that’s the nature of international football.&nbsp;

"I’ve been here for almost eight years now and we’ve come close so I know that you can’t keep standing in front of the public and saying ‘please do a little more’ because at some point, people will lose faith in your message,” the England manager added.

At the Euro 2020, Southgate’s England side lost the final on penalties to Italy denying him and the national side their maiden European title. However, they will look to get over the line this time with a rich wealth of talent available in the ranks. A young squad led by Harry Kane will see the likes of Cole Palmer, Phil Foden and others stamp their authority at the tournament in Germany.

England will start their campaign on Sunday (June 16) against Serbia before taking on Denmark in a repeat of last edition’s semifinal. England’s final group game will be against Slovenia as they will look to top Group C.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-why-a-washout-between-pakistan-canada-favours-india-usa-all-details-here-730694">T20 World Cup 2024: Why a washout between Pakistan-Canada favours India, USA - All details here</a>

<h2>Can Southgate inspire England to historic win?</h2>

England have enjoyed a successful last few years under Gareth Southgate but have failed to end their trophy drought which is now at 58 years. England have not won a senior men’s international tournament since the 1966 FIFA World Cup in their homeland. Under Southgate, they have reached the semifinal (2018) and quarterfinal (2022) of the last two FIFA World Cups and were runners-up at&nbsp;Euro 2020. It will be interesting to see whether Southgate helps the Three Lions end that drought this summer in Germany.

England manager Gareth Southgate will have unfinished business at the upcoming Euro 2024 as he aims for his maiden trophy with the national side. Southgate, who will take charge of his second European Championship with the Three Lions will be out of contract at the end of the year and will try to clinch the Euro 2024 title.

England manager Gareth Southgate will have unfinished business at the upcoming Euro 2024 as he aims for his maiden trophy with the national side. Southgate, who will take charge of his second European Championship with the Three Lions will be out of contract at the end of the year and will try to clinch the Euro 2024 title. However, he has reckoned that if he does not succeed with the national side and fails to land England’s first international men’s trophy in 58 years, he will be sacked. Southgate opens up on future "If we don’t win, I probably won’t be here anymore. It might be the last chance,” Southgate said in an interview with the German publication Bild. "I think about half of the national coaches leave after a tournament – that’s the nature of international football. "I’ve been here for almost eight years now and we’ve come close so I know that you can’t keep standing in front of the public and saying ‘please do a little more’ because at some point, people will lose faith in your message,” the England manager added. At the Euro 2020, Southgate’s England side lost the final on penalties to Italy denying him and the national side their maiden European title. However, they will look to get over the line this time with a rich wealth of talent available in the ranks. A young squad led by Harry Kane will see the likes of Cole Palmer, Phil Foden and others stamp their authority at the tournament in Germany. England will start their campaign on Sunday (June 16) against Serbia before taking on Denmark in a repeat of last edition’s semifinal. England’s final group game will be against Slovenia as they will look to top Group C. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: Why a washout between Pakistan-Canada favours India, USA - All details here Can Southgate inspire England to historic win? England have enjoyed a successful last few years under Gareth Southgate but have failed to end their trophy drought which is now at 58 years. England have not won a senior men’s international tournament since the 1966 FIFA World Cup in their homeland. Under Southgate, they have reached the semifinal (2018) and quarterfinal (2022) of the last two FIFA World Cups and were runners-up at Euro 2020. It will be interesting to see whether Southgate helps the Three Lions end that drought this summer in Germany.

'If we don’t win, I probably won’t be here anymore': England manager Gareth Southgate ahead of Euro 2024

England’s Euro 2024 preparations were severally dented on Friday (June 7) evening after they suffered an embarrassing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Iceland. The contest played at Wembley Stadium offered a good reality check to Gareth Southgate’s men before they travel to Germany for the main tournament. After the match midfielder Declan Rice insisted that there is still work to be done for England if they are to win the Euro 2024.

<h2>Declan Rice claims there is work to be done</h2>

"There's work to be done," said the Arsenal midfielder, 25. When you have that much of the ball, have a couple of clear-cut chances, and get beaten 1-0 at home just before the Euros it isn't ideal. There were a lot of promising performances, we played with a good tempo, always tried to play forward. We have to be a little bit more savvy," he told englandfootball.com. It's not ideal we lost but there are good learning curves we can build on as a team,” Rice said while speaking in the post-match press conference.

England are one of the favourites to win the Euro 2024 considering the wealth of talent they have at their disposal. The unit led by Harry Kane reached the finals in the last edition of the Euro before losing to Italy on penalties. While they want to go one better this time&nbsp;they will have to avoid defeats to smaller teams during the build-up.

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The Three Lions on Thursday trimmed their squad down to 26 players which saw some notable absentees including James Madison, Harry Maguire and Jack Grealish. The squad is already without the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, but will now have to rely on the current unit to win the Euro 2024.

England will face Serbia in Group C next Sunday in their tournament opener as they look to start on the front foot. Southgate’s men will also face Denmark and Slovenia in their group and will look to advance if they clinch a place in the knockouts.

England’s Euro 2024 preparations were severally dented on Friday (June 7) evening after they suffered an embarrassing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Iceland. The contest played at Wembley Stadium offered a good reality check to Gareth Southgate’s men before they travel to Germany for the main tournament.

England’s Euro 2024 preparations were severally dented on Friday (June 7) evening after they suffered an embarrassing 1-0 defeat at the hands of Iceland. The contest played at Wembley Stadium offered a good reality check to Gareth Southgate’s men before they travel to Germany for the main tournament. After the match midfielder Declan Rice insisted that there is still work to be done for England if they are to win the Euro 2024. Declan Rice claims there is work to be done "There's work to be done," said the Arsenal midfielder, 25. When you have that much of the ball, have a couple of clear-cut chances, and get beaten 1-0 at home just before the Euros it isn't ideal. There were a lot of promising performances, we played with a good tempo, always tried to play forward. We have to be a little bit more savvy," he told englandfootball.com. It's not ideal we lost but there are good learning curves we can build on as a team,” Rice said while speaking in the post-match press conference. England are one of the favourites to win the Euro 2024 considering the wealth of talent they have at their disposal. The unit led by Harry Kane reached the finals in the last edition of the Euro before losing to Italy on penalties. While they want to go one better this time they will have to avoid defeats to smaller teams during the build-up. ALSO READ | What could India’s Plan B be against Shaheen and Amir in New York showdown in T20 World Cup? The Three Lions on Thursday trimmed their squad down to 26 players which saw some notable absentees including James Madison, Harry Maguire and Jack Grealish. The squad is already without the likes of Marcus Rashford and Jadon Sancho, but will now have to rely on the current unit to win the Euro 2024. England will face Serbia in Group C next Sunday in their tournament opener as they look to start on the front foot. Southgate’s men will also face Denmark and Slovenia in their group and will look to advance if they clinch a place in the knockouts.

'There's work to be done': Declan Rice warns England after 1-0 defeat to Iceland in Euro 2024 build up

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente cut Barcelona's teenage defender Pau Cubarsi from his final squad for Euro 2024 along with Marcos Llorente and Aleix Garcia on Friday.

De la Fuente named a 29-man list in May before whittling it down to 26 players a week before the tournament begins in Germany.

Cubarsi, 17, burst into the limelight with Barcelona in the second half of the season and made his international debut in March against Colombia in a friendly.

Atletico Madrid's versatile midfielder Llorente missed out along with Girona playmaker Garcia.

Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, 16, stayed on the list with the club's midfielder Fermin Lopez.

Real Betis's Ayoze Perez and Athletic Bilbao defender Dani Vivian also survived the cut despite Spanish reports they were in line to miss out.

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Spain face Northern Ireland in a final tune-up friendly on Saturday, seven days before their first match at Euro 2024 against Croatia on June 15.

<h2>Spain squad for Euro 2024:</h2>

Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), Alex Remiro (Real Sociedad), David Raya (Arsenal/ENG)&nbsp;&nbsp;

Defenders: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Jesus Navas (Sevilla), Robin Le Normand (Real Sociedad), Dani Vivian (Athletic Bilbao), Nacho Fernandez (Real Madrid), Aymeric Laporte (Al Nassr/KSA), Alex Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea/ENG)

Midfielders: Rodri Hernandez (Manchester City/ENG), Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino (Real Sociedad), Fabian Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Pedri, Fermin Lopez (both Barcelona), Alex Baena (Villarreal)

Forwards: Alvaro Morata (Atletico Madrid), Joselu (Real Madrid), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig/GER), Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres (both Barcelona), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Ayoze Perez (Real Betis)

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente cut Barcelona's teenage defender Pau Cubarsi from his final squad for Euro 2024 along with Marcos Llorente and Aleix Garcia on Friday.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente cut Barcelona's teenage defender Pau Cubarsi from his final squad for Euro 2024 along with Marcos Llorente and Aleix Garcia on Friday. De la Fuente named a 29-man list in May before whittling it down to 26 players a week before the tournament begins in Germany. Cubarsi, 17, burst into the limelight with Barcelona in the second half of the season and made his international debut in March against Colombia in a friendly. Atletico Madrid's versatile midfielder Llorente missed out along with Girona playmaker Garcia. Barcelona winger Lamine Yamal, 16, stayed on the list with the club's midfielder Fermin Lopez. Real Betis's Ayoze Perez and Athletic Bilbao defender Dani Vivian also survived the cut despite Spanish reports they were in line to miss out. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Babar Azam rues collective failure for Pakistan's shocking loss to USA Spain face Northern Ireland in a final tune-up friendly on Saturday, seven days before their first match at Euro 2024 against Croatia on June 15. Spain squad for Euro 2024: Goalkeepers: Unai Simon (Athletic Bilbao), Alex Remiro (Real Sociedad), David Raya (Arsenal/ENG) Defenders: Dani Carvajal (Real Madrid), Jesus Navas (Sevilla), Robin Le Normand (Real Sociedad), Dani Vivian (Athletic Bilbao), Nacho Fernandez (Real Madrid), Aymeric Laporte (Al Nassr/KSA), Alex Grimaldo (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Marc Cucurella (Chelsea/ENG) Midfielders: Rodri Hernandez (Manchester City/ENG), Martin Zubimendi, Mikel Merino (Real Sociedad), Fabian Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Pedri, Fermin Lopez (both Barcelona), Alex Baena (Villarreal) Forwards: Alvaro Morata (Atletico Madrid), Joselu (Real Madrid), Nico Williams (Athletic Bilbao), Dani Olmo (RB Leipzig/GER), Lamine Yamal, Ferran Torres (both Barcelona), Mikel Oyarzabal (Real Sociedad), Ayoze Perez (Real Betis)

Euro 2024: Pau Cubarsí, Aleix García miss out on Spain's final 26-man squad

England manager Gareth Southgate said Brentford striker Ivan Toney will get some minutes in their friendly against Iceland on Friday but getting captain Harry Kane back up to speed ahead of the European Championship takes precedence. Bayern Munich forward Kane struggled with a back injury towards the end of the season and only played the final 30 minutes of England's 3-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday, netting the third from close range.

"Toney will be involved in the game on Friday but I have got to get Harry Kane right,” said Southgate, who has to whittle down his squad to 26 players by Friday. "So sometimes the priorities of what’s required and what you would like to see as well, you can’t achieve all of those objectives. Simple as that."

Southgate said Friday's game at Wembley takes on added significance as it is their final warm-up for Euro 2024 in Germany.

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"We want to build on (Monday's) performance, physically it’s an important game for players," he added. "Even for players who have played a lot of&nbsp;football&nbsp;they still need rhythm of playing matches.. Friday becomes an important exercise for us."

England open their campaign on June 16 against Serbia in Group C.

England manager Gareth Southgate said Brentford striker Ivan Toney will get some minutes in their friendly against Iceland on Friday but getting captain Harry Kane back up to speed ahead of the European Championship takes precedence.

England manager Gareth Southgate said Brentford striker Ivan Toney will get some minutes in their friendly against Iceland on Friday but getting captain Harry Kane back up to speed ahead of the European Championship takes precedence. Bayern Munich forward Kane struggled with a back injury towards the end of the season and only played the final 30 minutes of England's 3-0 win over Bosnia and Herzegovina on Monday, netting the third from close range. "Toney will be involved in the game on Friday but I have got to get Harry Kane right,” said Southgate, who has to whittle down his squad to 26 players by Friday. "So sometimes the priorities of what’s required and what you would like to see as well, you can’t achieve all of those objectives. Simple as that." Southgate said Friday's game at Wembley takes on added significance as it is their final warm-up for Euro 2024 in Germany. Also read: Manchester City break silence on 115 charges, less than 24 hours after going to war against Premier League "We want to build on (Monday's) performance, physically it’s an important game for players," he added. "Even for players who have played a lot of football they still need rhythm of playing matches.. Friday becomes an important exercise for us." England open their campaign on June 16 against Serbia in Group C.

England must get Harry Kane ‘right’ before Euro 2024, says Gareth Southgate

German men's football&nbsp;team head coach Julian Nagelsmann has slammed a public broadcaster for conducting a survey where participants were quizzed if they preferred more white players in the squad.&nbsp;

German state broadcaster ARD conducted the contentious survey of 1,304 randomly selected participants and found that 21 per cent would prefer it&nbsp;if more players in the national team were white-skinned.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“I thought about it briefly and I have the feeling that we need to wake up a bit," said Nagelsmann ahead of the start of the Euro 2024.&nbsp;

“There are people in Europe who’ve had to flee because of war, economic factors, environmental disasters, people who simply want to be taken in. We have to ask what are we doing at the moment? We in Germany are doing very, very well, and when we say something like that, I think it’s crazy how we turn a blind eye and simply block out such things.”

Nagelsmann's statement comes after midfielder Joshua Kimmich called the survey&nbsp;as "absolutely racist" and said it was "madness for a public broadcaster" to ask such a daft question.&nbsp;&nbsp;

“Anyone who’s grown up with soccer knows this is absolute nonsense. Soccer in particular is a good example of how you can unite different nations, different skin colours and different religions,” Kimmich said.

“That’s what our team is all about. I would miss a lot of players if they weren’t here. This is absolutely racist and has no place in our changing room.”

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/adidas-is-redesigning-no4-on-german-national-football-sides-kit-ahead-of-euro-2024-heres-why-706775">Also read |&nbsp;Adidas is redesigning No. 4 on German national football team’s kit ahead of Euro 2024. Here’s why</a>

<h2>Expression of situation in Germany</h2>

After the furore, sports director of ARD said the company was dismayed at the results "but they are also an expression of the social situation Germany today".&nbsp;

The German side has several players with mixed heritage, including the likes of captain Ilkay Gundogan, defender Antonio Rudiger and winger Leroy Sane who remain key to the team's fortunes in the upcoming tournament.&nbsp;

Germany is the host nation for this year's European Championship and will play the opener against Scotland in Munich on June 14.&nbsp;

Earlier this year, Adidas said it was redesigning the&nbsp;national team's kit containing the number ‘4’ to avoid Nazi symbolism. In a statement released by the DFB (German Football Association), it confirmed the slight change as the No. '44' resembled the symbol used by Nazi 'SS' units.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

German men's football team head coach Julian Nagelsmann has slammed a public broadcaster for conducting a survey where participants were quizzed if they preferred more white players in the squad.

German men's football team head coach Julian Nagelsmann has slammed a public broadcaster for conducting a survey where participants were quizzed if they preferred more white players in the squad. German state broadcaster ARD conducted the contentious survey of 1,304 randomly selected participants and found that 21 per cent would prefer it if more players in the national team were white-skinned. “I thought about it briefly and I have the feeling that we need to wake up a bit," said Nagelsmann ahead of the start of the Euro 2024. “There are people in Europe who’ve had to flee because of war, economic factors, environmental disasters, people who simply want to be taken in. We have to ask what are we doing at the moment? We in Germany are doing very, very well, and when we say something like that, I think it’s crazy how we turn a blind eye and simply block out such things.” Nagelsmann's statement comes after midfielder Joshua Kimmich called the survey as "absolutely racist" and said it was "madness for a public broadcaster" to ask such a daft question. “Anyone who’s grown up with soccer knows this is absolute nonsense. Soccer in particular is a good example of how you can unite different nations, different skin colours and different religions,” Kimmich said. “That’s what our team is all about. I would miss a lot of players if they weren’t here. This is absolutely racist and has no place in our changing room.” Also read | Adidas is redesigning No. 4 on German national football team’s kit ahead of Euro 2024. Here’s why Expression of situation in Germany After the furore, sports director of ARD said the company was dismayed at the results "but they are also an expression of the social situation Germany today". The German side has several players with mixed heritage, including the likes of captain Ilkay Gundogan, defender Antonio Rudiger and winger Leroy Sane who remain key to the team's fortunes in the upcoming tournament. Germany is the host nation for this year's European Championship and will play the opener against Scotland in Munich on June 14. Earlier this year, Adidas said it was redesigning the national team's kit containing the number ‘4’ to avoid Nazi symbolism. In a statement released by the DFB (German Football Association), it confirmed the slight change as the No. '44' resembled the symbol used by Nazi 'SS' units. (With inputs from agencies)

German coach blasts ‘racist’ state broadcaster for survey asking if team should have more white players

Spanish police said on Friday (May 31) it seized 11 tonnes of forged soccer tops to be sold in Spain in the run-up to the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in London on Saturday (June 1) and the European Championship in Germany next month.

The seized goods include tops from Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, France's Kylian Mbappe, Spain's national team, Real Madrid and Barcelona.

The fake shirts were found among other forged products such as luxury watches, leather goods and electronics when agents were searching 15 heavy-duty lorries, police said in a press release.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/eng-vs-pak-babar-azam-becomes-second-batter-after-virat-kohli-to-complete-4k-runs-in-mens-t20is-727309">Eng vs Pak: Babar Azam becomes second batter after Virat Kohli to complete 4k runs in men's T20Is</a>

The investigation started last April when two tonnes of counterfeit shirts of Spanish football clubs sent from China were seized.

Police found out a big shipment was bound to Spain before the Champions League final and the Euro finals, and set up an operation with more than 20 agents.

Police estimate the whole merchandise would have a market value of more than six million euros ($6.50 million).

Spanish police said on Friday (May 31) it seized 11 tonnes of forged soccer tops to be sold in Spain in the run-up to the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in London on Saturday (June 1) and the European Championship in Germany next month.

Spanish police said on Friday (May 31) it seized 11 tonnes of forged soccer tops to be sold in Spain in the run-up to the Champions League final between Real Madrid and Borussia Dortmund in London on Saturday (June 1) and the European Championship in Germany next month. The seized goods include tops from Portugal's Cristiano Ronaldo, France's Kylian Mbappe, Spain's national team, Real Madrid and Barcelona. The fake shirts were found among other forged products such as luxury watches, leather goods and electronics when agents were searching 15 heavy-duty lorries, police said in a press release. ALSO READ | Eng vs Pak: Babar Azam becomes second batter after Virat Kohli to complete 4k runs in men's T20Is The investigation started last April when two tonnes of counterfeit shirts of Spanish football clubs sent from China were seized. Police found out a big shipment was bound to Spain before the Champions League final and the Euro finals, and set up an operation with more than 20 agents. Police estimate the whole merchandise would have a market value of more than six million euros ($6.50 million).

Spain authorities seize 11 tonnes of fake Champions League and Euro kits

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has included Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong in his final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 despite the fact he his still recovering from an ankle injury.

Koeman has however left out left-back Ian Maatsen, who has played a key role in Borussia Dortmund's progress to the Champions League final against Real Madrid on Saturday, but has never played for his country's senior side.

The coach has placed his trust at left-back in the duo of Nathan Ake, fresh from winning the Premier League title with Manchester City, and the veteran Daley Blind.

De Jong suffered the injury in Barcelona's&nbsp;3-2 defeat by Real Madrid in the Clasico on April 21 -- the third time this season he had suffered ankle issues -- but is expected to return to training on Saturday, just under two weeks before the Euros kick off.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-virat-kohli-recalls-wc-debut-in-2011-says-nervousness-helped-him-to-be-aware-and-alert-727053">T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli recalls WC debut in 2011, says 'nervousness helped him to be aware and alert'</a>

Fitness concerns also surround&nbsp;Atletico Madrid forward Memphis Depay.

The Netherlands, who have won the European crown once in 1988, are in Group D with France, Austria and Poland.

They play Canada on June 6 and Iceland four days later in warm-up games.

Squad:

Goalkeepers: Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord), Mark Flekken (Brentford/ENG), Bart Verbruggen (Brighton/ENG)

Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City/ENG), Daley Blind (Girona/ESP), Stefan de Vrij (Inter Milan/ITA), Lutsharel Geertruida (Feyenoord), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan/ITA), Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich/GER), Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool/ENG)

Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona/ESP), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool/ENG), Teun Koopmeiners (Atalanta/ITA), Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan/ITA), Jerdy Schouten (PSV Eindhoven), Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig/GER), Joey Veerman (PSV Eindhoven), Georginio Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq/KSA)

Forwards: Steven Bergwijn (Ajax), Brian Brobbey (Ajax), Memphis Depay (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool/ENG), Donyell Malen (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Wout Weghorst (Hoffenheim/GER)

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has included Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong in his final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 despite the fact he his still recovering from an ankle injury.

Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman has included Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong in his final 26-man squad for Euro 2024 despite the fact he his still recovering from an ankle injury. Koeman has however left out left-back Ian Maatsen, who has played a key role in Borussia Dortmund's progress to the Champions League final against Real Madrid on Saturday, but has never played for his country's senior side. The coach has placed his trust at left-back in the duo of Nathan Ake, fresh from winning the Premier League title with Manchester City, and the veteran Daley Blind. De Jong suffered the injury in Barcelona's 3-2 defeat by Real Madrid in the Clasico on April 21 -- the third time this season he had suffered ankle issues -- but is expected to return to training on Saturday, just under two weeks before the Euros kick off. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup: Virat Kohli recalls WC debut in 2011, says 'nervousness helped him to be aware and alert' Fitness concerns also surround Atletico Madrid forward Memphis Depay. The Netherlands, who have won the European crown once in 1988, are in Group D with France, Austria and Poland. They play Canada on June 6 and Iceland four days later in warm-up games. Squad: Goalkeepers: Justin Bijlow (Feyenoord), Mark Flekken (Brentford/ENG), Bart Verbruggen (Brighton/ENG) Defenders: Nathan Ake (Manchester City/ENG), Daley Blind (Girona/ESP), Stefan de Vrij (Inter Milan/ITA), Lutsharel Geertruida (Feyenoord), Denzel Dumfries (Inter Milan/ITA), Matthijs de Ligt (Bayern Munich/GER), Jeremie Frimpong (Bayer Leverkusen/GER), Micky van de Ven (Tottenham Hotspur/ENG), Virgil van Dijk (Liverpool/ENG) Midfielders: Frenkie de Jong (Barcelona/ESP), Ryan Gravenberch (Liverpool/ENG), Teun Koopmeiners (Atalanta/ITA), Tijjani Reijnders (AC Milan/ITA), Jerdy Schouten (PSV Eindhoven), Xavi Simons (RB Leipzig/GER), Joey Veerman (PSV Eindhoven), Georginio Wijnaldum (Al Ettifaq/KSA) Forwards: Steven Bergwijn (Ajax), Brian Brobbey (Ajax), Memphis Depay (Atletico Madrid/ESP), Cody Gakpo (Liverpool/ENG), Donyell Malen (Borussia Dortmund/GER), Wout Weghorst (Hoffenheim/GER)

Euro 2024: Netherlands announce 26-man squad including injured Frenkie de Jong; Dortmund's Maatsen misses out

France striker Olivier&nbsp;Giroud&nbsp;intends to retire from international football after next month's European Championship, saying he wants to make sure he does not play "one season too many". Giroud, who left AC Milan to join American Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC earlier this month, has made 131 appearances for France and was a key part of their World Cup-winning squad in 2018.

With 57 goals, the 37-year-old is the men's national team's all-time leading goalscorer, having overtaken Thierry Henry during the 2022 World Cup. "To be honest, this will be my last competition with Les Bleus. Obviously, I'm going to miss it a lot,"&nbsp;Giroud&nbsp;told L'Equipe in an interview published on Thursday.

"But I think the French team will be over after the Euro. We need to make way for the youngsters. You also have to be careful not to have one season too many. You have to find the right balance... "I've always said that I was going to stop when my body asked me to. I think I've got two good years left. But as far as the French team is concerned, I think that'll be the end of it."

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-atalanta-star-gianluca-scamacca-picked-in-italian-squad-ciro-immobile-dropped-724704">Euro 2024: Atalanta star Gianluca Scamacca picked in Italian squad; Ciro Immobile dropped</a>

France, who were knocked out by Switzerland in the last 16 of Euro 2020, last lifted the trophy in 2000. They will face Austria in their Euros group stage opening game on June 17, before taking on the Netherlands and Poland.

Asked if he had any objectives for the European Championship,&nbsp;Giroud&nbsp;said: "No, I really don't. "It's really the desire to go as far as possible in the competition with this generation that drives me. "If I win, apart from the Premier League, which is very difficult to win, I could say I've won everything... After that, I've heard a lot about the 60-goal mark for the national team. We're watching, but it's not an obsession."

France striker Olivier Giroud intends to retire from international football after next month's European Championship, saying he wants to make sure he does not play "one season too many".

France striker Olivier Giroud intends to retire from international football after next month's European Championship, saying he wants to make sure he does not play "one season too many". Giroud, who left AC Milan to join American Major League Soccer side Los Angeles FC earlier this month, has made 131 appearances for France and was a key part of their World Cup-winning squad in 2018. With 57 goals, the 37-year-old is the men's national team's all-time leading goalscorer, having overtaken Thierry Henry during the 2022 World Cup. "To be honest, this will be my last competition with Les Bleus. Obviously, I'm going to miss it a lot," Giroud told L'Equipe in an interview published on Thursday. "But I think the French team will be over after the Euro. We need to make way for the youngsters. You also have to be careful not to have one season too many. You have to find the right balance... "I've always said that I was going to stop when my body asked me to. I think I've got two good years left. But as far as the French team is concerned, I think that'll be the end of it." Also read: Euro 2024: Atalanta star Gianluca Scamacca picked in Italian squad; Ciro Immobile dropped France, who were knocked out by Switzerland in the last 16 of Euro 2020, last lifted the trophy in 2000. They will face Austria in their Euros group stage opening game on June 17, before taking on the Netherlands and Poland. Asked if he had any objectives for the European Championship, Giroud said: "No, I really don't. "It's really the desire to go as far as possible in the competition with this generation that drives me. "If I win, apart from the Premier League, which is very difficult to win, I could say I've won everything... After that, I've heard a lot about the 60-goal mark for the national team. We're watching, but it's not an obsession."

France's leading goal-scorer Olivier Giroud set to retire after Euro 2024

Gianluca Scamacca has played his way into Italy's provisional squad for Euro 2024 after a phenomenal end to the season, as coach Luciano Spalletti announced on Thursday his provisional squad for Germany.

Striker Scamacca was picked by Spalletti after scoring 11 goals and setting up four more in all competitions since the start of March, helping fire Atalanta to their historic Europa League triumph on Wednesday.

The 25-year-old had been dropped for Italy's March friendlies with Venezuela and Ecuador by Spalletti who railed against footballers "playing on the PlayStation until four in the morning", a comment widely interpreted as being directed at Scamacca.

Spalletti has selected the in-form Scamacca in an attempt to resolve Italy's long-standing problem of finding reliable strikers.

Inconsistent Ciro Immobile -- one of the pivotal figures in Italy's Euro triumph three years ago -- has been dropped.

Should Scamacca lead the line for Italy he will play alongside Juventus star Federico Chiesa, whose teammate Nicolo Fagioli is a surprise inclusion among the midfielders after missing almost the entire season.

Fagioli made his first Juventus appearance since October on Monday following his seven-month ban for gambling on football matches.

The betting scandal cost Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali his place on the plane for the Euro, which starts on June 14.

Fagioli is one of a number of younger players who have replaced veterans of the last Euro victory like former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti who moved to Al-Arabi in Qatar last summer.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/cricket/t20-world-cup-2024-ecb-appoints-manchester-citys-david-young-as-team-psychologist-724661">T20 World Cup 2024: ECB appoints Manchester City's David Young as team psychologist</a>

Verratti has never been called up by Spalletti since he replaced Roberto Mancini in August last year.

Manuel Locatelli earned himself a move to Juventus from Sassuolo by impressing at the last Euro but was also dropped by Spalletti, the midfielder expressing his dismay by posting a black screen on Instagram.

Other big names from three years ago, when Italy beat England in a dramatic Wembley final, who won't travel to Germany include retired captain Giorgio Chiellini, his centre-back partner Leonardo Bonucci and winger Lorenzo Insigne.

On June 6 Spalletti will announce his final squad which will face Spain, Croatia and Albania in Group B.

Italy play Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina in pre-tournament friendlies early next month.

<h2>Provisional Italy squad:</h2>

Goalkeepers:&nbsp;Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Alex Meret (Napoli), Ivan Provedel (Lazio), Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham/ENG)

Defenders:&nbsp;Francesco Acerbi (Inter Milan), Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan), Raoul Bellanova (Torino), Alessandro Buongiorno (Torino), Riccardo Calafiori (Bologna), Andrea Cambiaso (Juventus), Matteo Darmian (Inter Milan), Giovanni Di Lorenzo (Napoli), Federico Dimarco (Inter Milan), Gianluca Mancini (Roma), Giorgio Scalvini (Atalanta)

Midfielders:&nbsp;Nicolo Barella (Inter Milan), Bryan Cristante (Roma), Nicolo Fagioli (Juventus), Michael Folorunsho (Verona), Davide Frattesi (Inter Milan), Jorginho (Arsenal/ENG), Lorenzo Pellegrini (Roma), Samuele Ricci (Torino)

Forwards:&nbsp;Federico Chiesa (Juventus), Stephan El Shaarawy (Roma), Riccardo Orsolini (Bologna), Giacomo Raspadori (Napoli), Mateo Retegui (Genoa), Gianluca Scamacca (Atalanta), Mattia Zaccagni (Lazio)

Gianluca Scamacca has played his way into Italy's provisional squad for Euro 2024 after a phenomenal end to the season, as coach Luciano Spalletti announced on Thursday his provisional squad for Germany.

Gianluca Scamacca has played his way into Italy's provisional squad for Euro 2024 after a phenomenal end to the season, as coach Luciano Spalletti announced on Thursday his provisional squad for Germany. Striker Scamacca was picked by Spalletti after scoring 11 goals and setting up four more in all competitions since the start of March, helping fire Atalanta to their historic Europa League triumph on Wednesday. The 25-year-old had been dropped for Italy's March friendlies with Venezuela and Ecuador by Spalletti who railed against footballers "playing on the PlayStation until four in the morning", a comment widely interpreted as being directed at Scamacca. Spalletti has selected the in-form Scamacca in an attempt to resolve Italy's long-standing problem of finding reliable strikers. Inconsistent Ciro Immobile -- one of the pivotal figures in Italy's Euro triumph three years ago -- has been dropped. Should Scamacca lead the line for Italy he will play alongside Juventus star Federico Chiesa, whose teammate Nicolo Fagioli is a surprise inclusion among the midfielders after missing almost the entire season. Fagioli made his first Juventus appearance since October on Monday following his seven-month ban for gambling on football matches. The betting scandal cost Newcastle United midfielder Sandro Tonali his place on the plane for the Euro, which starts on June 14. Fagioli is one of a number of younger players who have replaced veterans of the last Euro victory like former Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Marco Verratti who moved to Al-Arabi in Qatar last summer. ALSO READ | T20 World Cup 2024: ECB appoints Manchester City's David Young as team psychologist Verratti has never been called up by Spalletti since he replaced Roberto Mancini in August last year. Manuel Locatelli earned himself a move to Juventus from Sassuolo by impressing at the last Euro but was also dropped by Spalletti, the midfielder expressing his dismay by posting a black screen on Instagram. Other big names from three years ago, when Italy beat England in a dramatic Wembley final, who won't travel to Germany include retired captain Giorgio Chiellini, his centre-back partner Leonardo Bonucci and winger Lorenzo Insigne. On June 6 Spalletti will announce his final squad which will face Spain, Croatia and Albania in Group B. Italy play Turkey and Bosnia and Herzegovina in pre-tournament friendlies early next month. Provisional Italy squad: Goalkeepers: Gianluigi Donnarumma (Paris Saint-Germain/FRA), Alex Meret (Napoli), Ivan Provedel (Lazio), Guglielmo Vicario (Tottenham/ENG) Defenders: Francesco Acerbi (Inter Milan), Alessandro Bastoni (Inter Milan), Raoul Bellanova (Torino), Alessandro Buongiorno (Torino), Riccardo Calafiori (Bologna), Andrea Cambiaso (Juventus), Matteo Darmian (Inter Milan), Giovanni Di Lorenzo (Napoli), Federico Dimarco (Inter Milan), Gianluca Mancini (Roma), Giorgio Scalvini (Atalanta) Midfielders: Nicolo Barella (Inter Milan), Bryan Cristante (Roma), Nicolo Fagioli (Juventus), Michael Folorunsho (Verona), Davide Frattesi (Inter Milan), Jorginho (Arsenal/ENG), Lorenzo Pellegrini (Roma), Samuele Ricci (Torino) Forwards: Federico Chiesa (Juventus), Stephan El Shaarawy (Roma), Riccardo Orsolini (Bologna), Giacomo Raspadori (Napoli), Mateo Retegui (Genoa), Gianluca Scamacca (Atalanta), Mattia Zaccagni (Lazio)

Euro 2024: Atalanta star Gianluca Scamacca picked in Italian squad; Ciro Immobile dropped

Marcus Rashford paid for his poor season as the Manchester United forward was left out of England boss Gareth Southgate's provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2024 on Tuesday (May 21).

Marcus Rashford paid for his poor season as the Manchester United forward was left out of England boss Gareth Southgate's provisional 33-man squad for Euro 2024 on Tuesday (May 21). Former Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson and Chelsea skipper Reece James were among the other big names to miss out on the squad, which must be trimmed to a maximum of 26 before the tournament in Germany begins. Crystal Palace's Adam Wharton was rewarded for the Eagles' brilliant end to the Premier League season with his first-ever call-up. Everton's Jarrad Branthwaite and Liverpool duo Jarell Quansah and Curtis Jones are the other uncapped players selected with Southgate short on defensive options. England face Bosnia and Herzegovina on June 3 and Iceland four days later before jetting off for Germany, where they are one of the favourites to win the tournament. The wealth of options available to Southgate in attacking areas means Rashford misses out on a major international tournament for the first time since the 2014 World Cup. Rashford has scored just eight times in 42 appearances for his club this season and only recently returned from injury. "These are difficult calls. With Marcus, I just feel other players in that area have had better seasons. It's as simple as that," said Southgate. In a social media post, Rashford said: "Wishing Gareth and the boys all the best." Henderson's injury-hit move to Ajax in January after a short spell in Saudi Arabia has not done enough to earn the 33-year-old a place. "Henderson's given himself every chance. The determining factor was the injury he picked up in the last (international) camp," added Southgate. "He missed five weeks and wasn't able to get back up to the level of intensity. It was a difficult decision." The same goes for Jadon Sancho despite his renaissance on his return to Champions League finalists Borussia Dortmund on loan from United. Raheem Sterling and Kalvin Phillips were also overlooked despite shining for Southgate in the past at major tournaments. Real Madrid's Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, who fired Manchester City to the Premier League title on Sunday, and Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka are included as part of a fearsome collection of creative talent to supply England's all-time top goalscorer Harry Kane. Also read | Star World Cup winner makes shocking return as France name Euro 2024 squad England's men begin their quest to win a major tournament for the first time in 58 years against Serbia on June 16 before facing Denmark and Slovenia in Group C. The Three Lions have come agonisingly close to glory under Southgate before, losing the Euro 2020 final on penalties to Italy. England also reached the 2018 World Cup semi-finals and the last eight of the 2022 World Cup. "Are we one of those teams who can win? Of course," said Southgate. "I'd be an idiot if I said no, but if I said yes, that doesn't mean there's not a lot of work ahead of us. "They know what is possible, they know what they've won at club level and what that's taken. You can see cup football, you have to navigate game-by-game." Squad: Goalkeepers: Jordan Pickford (Everton), Aaron Ramsdale (Arsenal), Dean Henderson (Crystal Palace), James Trafford (Burnley) Defenders: Kyle Walker, John Stones (both Manchester City), Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire (both Manchester United), Jarrad Branthwaite (Everton), Jarell Quansah, Joe Gomez (both Liverpool), Marc Guehi (Crystal Palace), Kieran Trippier (Newcastle), Ezri Konsa (Aston Villa), Lewis Dunk (Brighton) Midfielders: Declan Rice (Arsenal), Kobbie Mainoo (Manchester United), Adam Wharton (Crystal Palace), Conor Gallagher (Chelsea), Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones (both Liverpool) Forwards: Harry Kane (Bayern Munich/GER), Ollie Watkins (Aston Villa), Ivan Toney (Brentford), Jarrod Bowen (West Ham), Bukayo Saka (Arsenal), Anthony Gordon (Newcastle), Cole Palmer (Chelsea), James Maddison (Tottenham), Jude Bellingham (Real Madrid/ESP), Phil Foden, Jack Grealish (both Manchester City), Eberechi Eze (Crystal Palace)

Gareth Southgate drops Marcus Rashford from England’s Euro 2024 squad

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