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Kobbie Mainoo and the England squad suffered heartbreak as they slumped to a 2-1 defeat to Spain in the final of Euro 2024.
For the majority of the first half, it was one-way traffic as Spain dominated possession with 69% of the ball while taking five shots compared to England’s three. England’s only shot on target came courtesy of Phil Foden off a well-timed cross.
From the start of the second half, it was all Spain yet again as Nico Williams got on the end of a rapid counter-attack to bury the ball in the back of the net from the left flank.
England appeared to revive themselves, with Mainoo and his teammates applying more pressure as the half went on, and in the 73rd minute, it appeared as if the tide had turned.
Substitute Cole Palmer took a thunderous left-footed shot from distance to hand England an unlikely equaliser. Sadly for his team, their joy was only temporary, as a dominant Spain restored their lead just four minutes from time thanks to a Martin Oyarzabal strike.
While he may have enjoyed a strong performance overall throughout the tournament, tonight’s match was not the most memorable for Manchester United’s rising star Kobbie Mainoo.
With just 29 touches in total, the stats for Mainoo’s 70 minutes on the pitch were some of his least impressive. He only managed to complete 13 of 18 passes (72% accuracy) while attempting no crosses nor long balls.
Mainoo’s dribbling was also not successful as he failed to complete either of his two attempts.
The Man United teenager won two of his four ground duels while coming off second-best in his only aerial challenge.
Tracking back in support of his defence, Mainoo did have a limited presence, completing two tackles and making two clearances. Still, this did not make up for the fact that he lost possession on 11 occasions.
In attack, Mainoo failed to register any attempts on goal.
Still, statistics aren’t everything and Mainoo can hold his head high as it was a performance in which he always showed for the ball and tried to make things happen. It was also hard for him to impose himself in a tactical system where England were asked to sit back. Throughout the encounter, it was Spain who dictated the flow of play, maintaining 65% possession and taking 16 shots compared to just nine from England. Ultimately, the Spanish created five big chances, while England had two.
Mainoo proved to be one of England’s crucial players throughout the competition – a critical pillar in the English midfield that catapulted his team to the Euro 2024 final.
Ultimately, England fans can take pride in Mainoo’s performances for his nation, while United fans will no doubt be excited to see what the youngster can do when he returns to Old Trafford next season.
(Stats via Sofascore)
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