England’s preparations for Euro 2024 came to a disappointing conclusion with a defeat by Iceland at Wembley.
Manager Gareth Southgate made several changes following Monday’s victory against Bosnia-Herzegovina at St James’ Park in Newcastle. However, he would have been deeply disheartened by the lacklustre performance.
Iceland, notorious for their victory over England at Euro 2016, exploited poor defence and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale, who replaced Jordan Pickford, could have handled Jon Dagur Thorsteinsson’s low shot after 12 minutes more effectively.
Harry Kane missed a golden opportunity for England, while Chelsea’s Cole Palmer, one of the standout performers, also had chances. However, Southgate’s team appeared rusty as they finalised their plans for their opening Euro 2024 match against Serbia in Gelsenkirchen on June 16.
England’s defence seemed shaky throughout the match, with Iceland also having opportunities to widen their lead after half-time.
Key defender John Stones was taken off at half-time after receiving a heavy blow early in the match. Southgate will be anxiously hoping that there is no serious issue, especially with his regular defensive partner Harry Maguire already ruled out of the tournament in Germany due to injury.