Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo was the standout performer for England as they survived a huge scare vs. Slovakia to advance to the quarter-final of Euro 2024.
Slovakia took the lead just 25 minutes into proceedings courtesy of Ivan Schranz. The forward got on the end of a sublime through ball from teammate David Strelec before he nonchalantly flicked the ball past a helpless Jordan Pickford.
England struggled to break down Slovakia’s stubborn defence and it looked like the Three Lions were headed for another painful tournament exit.
However, Jude Bellingham came up clutch in the 95th minute as he produced a brilliant bicycle kick to force the match into extra time.
Harry Kane gave England the lead just 52 seconds into extra time when he rose highest to emphatically head in a clever ball across the area from Brentford’s Ivan Toney.
Mainoo featured for 84 minutes before he was taken off and replaced by Crystal Palace’s Eberechi Eze. Mainoo was undoubtedly England’s standout star when he was involved in the action.
In the opening 45 minutes especially, any little control England had came from the United n.o 37. As is usually the case, his handling of the ball was almost flawless, as were his passing and positioning.
During the time he was on the pitch, Mainoo touched the ball 77 times and successfully delivered 65 of the 68 passes he attempted. One of his passes was a key pass.
The United star tried to connect with two crosses and two long balls. He found his target with just one of the two long balls he pinged.
Mainoo registered just one shot, but it was off-target and didn’t require Slovakia goalkeeper Martin Dubravka to swing into action.
The Carrington academy graduate embarked on one dribble, which he completed.
He delved into five ground duels and came out on top on three occasions. The midfielder won the one aerial challenge he was required to contest.
Mainoo made one interception and put in as many tackles.
(Stats obtained from Sofascore)
Gareth Southgate’s men will now face Switzerland in the quarter-final of the Euros.
