Bittersweet after thinking we might do it 23:04 - Jul 11 with 1680 views | Mullet | That goal after 2 mins was bigger than anything in my lifetime. But it felt like we lost momentum and struggled for far too long in that game. Can’t fault those subs to give us as many penalty options as possible. The keepers decided that shoot out and when Pickford saved from Jorginho I thought we’d all but done it, there’s a reason Donnarumma is the best young keeper in the world. Where will he be in another decade? Italy were brilliant this tournament, it was fun to dream but they’re worthy winners. We can all thank Southgate for what he’s done so far. Two very good tournaments and we are getting better under him. |  |
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Bittersweet after thinking we might do it on 14:18 - Jul 12 with 194 views | Churchman |
Bittersweet after thinking we might do it on 13:34 - Jul 12 by Funge | That's football, though, right? This side are likeable, and making palpable improvements over the past 5 years. It's not a fair comparison, but the feeling this morning (whilst pretty grim) is hugely, hugely different to that felt after the Iceland game. The next step, for me, is how Southgate progresses to a style of football that allows for both Foden and Sancho to play - frankly, either of them get into any other European international side. England set ourselves up not to lose this tournament - and we succeeded - but, at risk of setting this post up to burn, that style of football comes under scrutiny as soon as the end result doesn't come (similar to MM and Ipswich, I suppose). Winning tournaments is fcking tough, but, for the first time in a long time, we're now in a position, as a team, where we can, actually, stand a chance of winning them - for the first time in 15 years; or, more realistically, 25. This team is on the up - looking around Europe, the French will (annoyingly) be very strong for some time to come, but the Germans and Spanish are on the wane, and Belgium's 'Golden Generation' look to be going the same way as ours (Doku is some talent, mind....). Portugal don't look great without Ronaldo, and the Dutch remain work in progress. Italy, of course, are powerful, although Chiellini must surely retire at 50. We're in a good place. |
I agree with this. Yesterday had ghastly echoes of MMs way of playing for me. Our strength was and is in the players you mention and the other young players coming through and we have to make better use of them if we can. Easy said from my armchair, of course. A concern I would have is replacing Kane, who looks a lot older than 27. Pickford too, who while he had a good tournament and did nothing wrong yesterday still isn’t good enough. That big Italian keeper and Schmeichel have real presence. Overall though, lots to like, including the performances of Mings who grew in stature in this tournament. Could he play alongside Maguire? Stones always looks slightly desperate to me. |  | |  |
Bittersweet after thinking we might do it on 14:31 - Jul 12 with 185 views | Mullet |
Bittersweet after thinking we might do it on 23:24 - Jul 11 by Moriarty | I remember a very good coach telling a team I played in that the worst game to lose was a semi final. Yes it’s sore to lose a final but if you lose a semi, you’ll forever be questioning and wondering how you would have done if you got to the final. Desperately close and at half time I thought you were in with a great shout. Maybe extra time v the Danes took a toll? Have to say I think you’re right that Italy, on balance deserved it but you can take a lot of positives. Of course questions will be asked and analysis will follow but You can look ahead to Qatar and beyond with a very talented young team and coach. Keep knocking and the door will eventually open. [Post edited 11 Jul 2021 23:26]
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I also look at Croatia and think as time caught up with Modric this time, we have a different proposition as there isn’t a similar talisman it hinges on. Southgate has made it about the collective. If we can compliment Kane at CF we will be one hell of a side with depth |  |
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