Former Manchester City defender Micah Richards has identified Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Aleksandar Mitrovic as the primary dangers for England in their first Euro 2024 match against Serbia.
Richards praised both players, emphasizing their potential to challenge the Three Lions. The 2024 European Championship kicks off this Friday, with the host nation, Germany, playing against Scotland at the Allianz Arena in Munich. England’s first match is scheduled for Sunday against Serbia, and Richards believes Milinkovic-Savic and Mitrovic pose significant threats.
On The Rest is Football podcast, Richards said:
“[Sergej] Milinkovic-Savic. He is the player! He’s in Saudi [Arabia] now, but he was at Lazio. He is a real ball player. A lot of the good stuff they do comes through him. I’m interested to see what they can do.
“I’m gonna go England and Serbia [to finish 1-2 in Group C] because of set-pieces with [Aleksandar] Mitrovic and I just think he could be the difference.”
Richards' remarks highlight the influence Milinkovic-Savic and Mitrovic have on the Serbian national team. Milinkovic-Savic, who recently moved to Saudi Arabia after a successful stint at Lazio, is known for his creativity and ability to control the game from midfield. His vision and passing can unlock defenses, making him a key playmaker for Serbia.
Mitrovic, on the other hand, is a formidable presence in the attacking third. Known for his physicality and aerial prowess, he is a constant threat on set-pieces and crosses. Mitrovic’s ability to find the back of the net consistently has made him a vital asset for Serbia.
England, led by manager Gareth Southgate, will need to devise a strategy to neutralize these threats. Milinkovic-Savic’s playmaking skills and Mitrovic’s goal-scoring ability mean England’s defense will have to be at its best to keep Serbia at bay.
Richards’ prediction that Serbia could finish second in Group C, behind England, underscores the strength of the Serbian team. With Milinkovic-Savic orchestrating the midfield and Mitrovic leading the attack, Serbia has the potential to cause problems for any opponent.
For England, the match against Serbia will be a crucial test. Southgate’s squad, featuring talents like Harry Kane, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka, will aim to start their Euro 2024 campaign on a positive note. However, they must be wary of the Serbian threats highlighted by Richards.
The anticipation for the tournament is high, with fans eager to see how the teams perform on the big stage. The clash between England and Serbia promises to be a compelling encounter, with both teams looking to make a strong statement in their opening match.
Richards’ insights on The Rest is Football podcast provide a glimpse into the challenges England might face. His experience as a defender and understanding of the game add weight to his analysis, making his warnings about Milinkovic-Savic and Mitrovic particularly noteworthy.
As the tournament begins, England’s preparation and tactical approach will be under scrutiny. The ability to handle key players like Milinkovic-Savic and Mitrovic could determine their success in the early stages of Euro 2024.
In addition to focusing on Serbia's main threats, England will also need to play to their strengths. The creativity of Foden, the goal-scoring prowess of Kane, and the dynamism of Saka will be crucial in breaking down the Serbian defense and securing a win.
Richards' comments also highlight the importance of set-pieces in international tournaments. Mitrovic’s effectiveness in aerial duels means England’s defense will need to be vigilant during corners and free-kicks. Proper marking and positioning will be essential to prevent Serbia from capitalizing on these opportunities.
Overall, the match against Serbia will be a significant test for England as they aim to progress deep into the tournament. The insights provided by Richards serve as a reminder of the challenges that lie ahead and the need for a well-rounded, strategic approach to secure victory.
Micah Richards’ identification of Sergej Milinkovic-Savic and Aleksandar Mitrovic as key threats for England in their Euro 2024 opener against Serbia underscores the challenges the Three Lions will face.
England’s ability to neutralize these players and capitalize on their own strengths will be crucial in determining the outcome of their first match. As the tournament kicks off, all eyes will be on how Southgate’s men handle this formidable Serbian side.
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