Middlesbrough (United Kingdom) (AFP)
Before challenging Croatia on June 13, England ended their preparation for the Euro (June 11 - July 11) with a narrow victory against Romania (1-0) in a friendly match Sunday in Middlesbrough.
The "Three Lions", who clearly dominated the meeting, had to wait for the hour mark to gain the advantage over Romania, not qualified for the Euro.
It was Manchester United striker Marcus Rashford who gave the England victory from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, after a foul caused by Jack Grealish.
As against Austria, the English coach Gareth Southgate had aligned an eleven "bis", preserving several of his stars (Raheem Sterling, Harry Kane, Phil Foden, Mason Mount ...).
It is therefore the usual substitutes who have shown themselves to be the most dangerous.
Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin, who created several chances, including a header that failed on the bar in the first half, and Southampton midfielder James Ward-Prowse, who demonstrated the quality of his set pieces, in the lead.
Liverpool captain Jordan Henderson, who was returning to the pitch after his injury last February, missed the opportunity to make the break in the 78th minute, missing a penalty.
England, which is one of the favorites of the Euro, is still struggling to develop the game, but ensured the essential by securing this second victory without conceding a goal in a preparation match, after Wednesday's against Austria (1-0).
Gareth Southgate's side will make their Euro debut against Croatia on June 13, before facing Scotland and the Czech Republic, their two opponents in Group D.
© 2021 AFP