In the last game of Group C at EURO 2024, England’s coach Gareth Southgate made just one change to the starting eleven before facing Slovenia. The “Three Lions” skipper set up Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher to partner with Declan Rice in lieu of Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Both teams were cautious during the first half, which was a close match. Phil Foden’s runs down the left flank and crosses, or crosses inside, were the main source of England’s opportunities.

In the 20th minute, Bukayo Saka made one of those plays, tapping the ball in the Slovenian net from close range. Sadly, Foden’s offside position when he received Jude Bellingham’s assist earlier resulted in the score being disallowed.

Kieran Trippier attempted a daring cross that went just wide of the post at the conclusion of the first half, but neither Gallagher nor Kane were able to finish. There was no goal after 45 minutes. Shortly after the half, Southgate substituted Gallagher, allowing Kobbie Mainoo to come off the bench.

Following a left-wing corner, Bellingham headed dangerously into the 58th minute, but Benjamin Sesko blocked it directly on the goal line. Saka’s effort at a bicycle kιck was inadvertently flagged as a foul by his opponent as the ball bounced back.

Even when Southgate added Cole Palmer and Anthony Gordon, England’s оffensive stagnated. Slovenia put up a strong defensive effort, eventually keeping the score at zero until the very end.

Both clubs advanced to the round of 16 thanks to the goalless draw. Group C champions England went on, and Slovenia finished among the top four teams in third place.