England Sleepwalks to Euro 2024 Group C Victory

England secured the top spot in Group C of Euro 2024, but their performance in a lackluster 0-0 draw against Slovenia left much to be desired.

England's progression to the knockout stages of Euro 2024 was confirmed on Tuesday evening, but their performance in a tame 0-0 draw against Slovenia left a sour taste in the mouths of supporters and pundits alike.

Gareth Southgate's side played out their third consecutive draw of the campaign, a result that saw them clinch group victory only because of an equally uneventful 0-0 stalemate between Denmark and Serbia in Munich.

England Sleepwalks to Euro 2024 Group C Victory

Despite boasting an array of attacking talent, including Harry Kane, Jude Bellingham, Phil Foden, and Bukayo Saka, England failed to create any meaningful chances against a dogged Slovenia defense.

The sole moment of excitement came late in the second half when substitute Cole Palmer was introduced for his first action of the competition. However, even the Manchester City youngster was unable to inject any life into a match that had long since descended into tedium.

In stark contrast to the other groups in the tournament, which have witnessed a plethora of goals and late drama, Group C turned out to be an absolute snoozefest. Five of the six games ended in draws, and only seven goals were scored in total.

England's inability to show any cohesion or creativity was particularly concerning, given the firepower at Southgate's disposal.

Phil Foden had a pair of long-range shots blocked, while Trent Alexander-Arnold, who was dropped for Conor Gallagher after Southgate ended his ill-fated midfield experiment, fired over in the final moments.

Slovenia, meanwhile, showed more endeavor in the second half as they desperately sought a goal that would have sent them through to the knockout rounds. However, their efforts were ultimately in vain.

The results left Denmark and Slovenia tied on points, goal differential, and goals scored after each recorded three ties. Consequently, second place was decided on a disciplinary record tiebreaker, with Denmark receiving one fewer yellow card than Slovenia (6 to 7).

This bizarre scenario meant that Denmark finished second and will face host nation Germany in the round of 16 on Saturday. Third place conferred a potentially better outcome for Slovenia, but they must wait to see where they wind up in the knockout stage.

Serbia was the unlucky team to be eliminated, managing just two points from their three games.

Overall, Group C has been a forgettable one, lacking the drama and excitement that have characterized the other groups in Euro 2024.

England will not be complaining about going through as group winners, but their skeptical press and public may have cause to be concerned about the team's lackluster performances thus far.