UEFA Euro 2024 Qualifying: England vs North Macedonia

England host North Macedonia at Old Trafford, Manchester, in Qualifying Group C for UEFA Euro 2024.

Victory would see England stay top of Qualifying Group C, whilst North Macedonia can go second with at least a draw if Ukraine loses elsewhere.

 

Team News

England have no fresh injury concerns to report after their away win to Malta but Bukayo Saka could be rested, having suffered a minor knock to his ankle during a first-half challenge.

Kyle Walker, John Stones and Jack Grealish could feature amongst a series of changes after the Manchester City trio were rested in Malta due to their late link-up with the team, although their City teammate – Phil Foden was utilised as a substitute despite too reporting late.

North Macedonia have no fresh injury concerns to report with a full squad available for selection.

 

When is Kick-Off?

England host North Macedonia at Old Trafford, Manchester, in a 7:45pm BST kick-off on Monday 19 June, live on Channel 4 in the UK.

 

Stat Attack

• England are unbeaten in four previous meetings against North Macedonia (W2, D2).
• North Macedonia have drawn each of their two previous away visits to England (D2), drawing 2-2 in Southampton in October 2002 then 0-0 at Old Trafford in October 2006.
• England have kept two clean sheets in their four previous meetings against North Macedonia.
• Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions have kept three clean sheets in their last six home games in all competitions dating back to March 2022 (W3, D2, L1).
• Elif Elmas is the only player who has scored twice in 2023 for North Macedonia.

 

Prediction

Although their victory over Malta was dominant and easy, I personally felt that England at times were slow in their play when they could of attacked with more intensity, which is something that they will have to do here because North Macedonia can’t be underestimated at any point.

Speaking of North Macedonia, they will head to Manchester eager to deliver a reaction after blowing a 2-0 half-time lead to lose 3-2 to Ukraine, so I do expect them to come out and try to get the first goal then kick on which could suit England if they can soak up Macedonia’s attacks.

England though are yet to beat North Macedonia at home so this game could be a potential banana skin – especially away from Wembley, but I do expect them to find a way to get the job done in what should be a competitive game.

Prediction: England 2-1 North Macedonia

Result: England 7-0 North Macedonia