After a disappointing defeat to Greece, England faces Finland on Sunday in a crucial UEFA Nations League clash in Helsinki. Both teams will be eager to secure their first points of the campaign, with England aiming to bounce back and Finland seeking to avoid further humiliation.
Match Preview:
England entered their last match against Greece with heavy hearts due to the tragic passing of former player George Baldock. Despite the emotional toll, the Three Lions suffered a 2-1 defeat, marking a disjointed performance that saw them struggle to create chances. Lee Carsley’s team now finds itself three points behind Greece and facing the prospect of relegation if they fail to secure a win against Finland.
The loss to Greece highlighted England’s defensive frailties and lack of attacking cohesion. With Harry Kane’s fitness still uncertain, Carsley may need to rely on alternative attacking options, including Dominic Solanke or Ollie Watkins, to lead the line against Finland.
Finland, on the other hand, has struggled throughout the tournament, sitting at the bottom of Group 2 with three consecutive defeats and no goals scored. Their latest loss came against the Republic of Ireland, where they took an early lead but fell apart in the second half. Manager Markku Kanerva’s side has not kept a clean sheet in their last eight matches and has conceded multiple goals in six of those games.
Historically, England has dominated their encounters with Finland, winning 10 of their last 12 meetings. The last clash in September saw England secure a comfortable victory, making the pressure even greater for the home side to perform on Sunday.
Team News:
England:
Lee Carsley faces selection dilemmas as he navigates injuries to key players. Harry Kane is a doubt after missing the Greece game, and Bukayo Saka’s potential hamstring injury could also sideline him. If Kane is unavailable, Carsley may turn to Dominic Solanke or Ollie Watkins in the attacking role.
Rotation could see Conor Gallagher and Kyle Walker come into the starting XI. Jack Grealish remains a question mark after missing the last game with a knock.
Possible England starting lineup:
Pickford; Walker, Guehi, Colwill, Lewis; Rice, Gallagher; Palmer, Bellingham, Gordon; Watkins
Finland:
Finland emerged without any fresh injuries from their narrow defeat to Ireland, although Kaan Kairinen had withdrawn prior to the fixtures. Teemu Pukki may be reinstated to the starting lineup after being benched in their last match, as the Eagle-owls search for a much-needed spark in attack.
Possible Finland starting lineup:
Hradecky; Stahl, Hoskonen, Ivanov, Uronen; Schuller, Peltola; Lod, Kamara, Antman; Pukki
Prediction:
Given England’s recent struggles and Finland’s lack of form, this match is critical for the Three Lions to regain momentum and confidence. While Finland has home advantage, their defensive vulnerabilities make them an easier target for an England side desperate for a win.
Prediction: Finland 1-3 England
This outcome would not only ease some of the pressure off Carsley but also reaffirm England’s strength in the Nations League as they aim for a top-two finish in the group.
