EURO 2024: England survive Slovakia scare to reach quarter-finals

England survived what could have been a disastrous exit from EURO 2024 on Monday morning (AEST) in Gelsenkirchen.

Although they beat Slovakia 2-1, the Three Lions trailed the majority of the match after Ivan Schranz put Slovakia ahead in the 25th minute.

Seconds away from an imminent meltdown, Jude Bellingham forced the game into extra time with a brilliant goal deep into injury time.

Skipper Harry Kane proved to be England’s hero yet again, as scoring a minute into extra time to put Gareth Southgate’s side into the quarter-finals.

Despite the team’s struggles up to this point, soccer betting sites have England slated as +116 favourites to beat Switzerland (+277) in the next round.

Online bookmakers also have England as $4.50 favourites to win the European Championship, ahead of Spain ($5) and Germany ($5.5).

Meanwhile, the Spanish had a comfortable outing in Cologne, hammering Georgia 4-1 to book their place in the quarter-finals.

Despite going behind in the 18th minute thanks to an own goal by defender Robin le Normand, La Furia Roja equalised before the interval through Manchester City’s Rodri.

The second half underlined Spain’s mental fortitude and dominance on the ball, as they scored soon after the restart through Fabian Ruiz.

Nico Williams added another in the 75th minute before Dani Olmo rounded up Spain’s victory with a goal with seven minutes left.

The victory ensured Spain booked a mouthwatering quarter-final tie with hosts Germany, set to be played on Friday in Stuttgart.

The form team of the tournament, Spain enter the blockbuster clash as slight favourites at +166 with Marantelli Bet to beat the Germans (+182).

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