Monks. The 0-0 final scoreline pleased everyone: England were looking to top their group and Slovenia, who had drawn their third successive game, still qualified for the last 16 in third place. England were looking for confirmation from a game that had been a lacklustre first part of the European Championship. The game was little-watched and not booed by many fans in the stands for Southgate’s national team, but it was enough to secure their place in the last 16. Southgate started Gallagher alongside Rice in midfield.
For the rest, the lineup was basically confirmed with Kane as the attacking end. Behind him were Saka, Bellingham and Foden, on the other side Slovenian coach Kek brought on Sesko and Sporar, Elsnik in midfield with Cerin, Mlakar and Stojanovic on the sidelines. Ilicic on the bench. A cautious start from both teams as Slovenia tried to put pressure on England’s possession. In the 5th minute, Slovenia attacked dangerously but Sesko’s shot was weak.
England controlled the game but did not threaten until the 20th minute when Saka scored but the goal was ruled out for offside by Foden. The pace was slow and Slovenia were not in serious danger despite Harry Kane’s incursions. The first half went on as it was, without any major shocks and ended with boos from the Three Lions fans.
Southgate replaced Gallagher with Manchester United gem Mainoo at the start of the second half but the game seemed to have changed little from the first half as England struggled to gain control and Slovenia defended and restarted. It was only in the final minute that Harry Kane managed to break through the Slovenian wall but the score remained 0-0, enough for both sides to progress to the last 16.