EURO 2020 has kicked off, a year late, and it's already showing signs of being eventful.
One team ready to prove their mettle to claim the title of European Champions is England.
Led by former England international Gareth Southgate, The Three Lions' final squad, surprisingly well received by the fans, consists a good mix of experienced and young rising stars who are looking to mount a serious challenge.
A notable point at this year's tournament is that matches will be taking place in 11 different cities, with Wembley being one of the main venue.
Out of the total of 51 games, Wembley will play host to all three of England’s group games, two Round of 16 games, both semi-finals, and the final.
If all goes to plan for Southgate’s side in the group stages and they come out on top, they will also play their Round of 16 match at home, travel to Rome for the quarter-final and make the trip back for the semi-final and final.
What is ‘home advantage’?
With home advantage there is the likelihood teams perform better as opposed to playing away. In Euro 2020, England have that advantage and must capitalise on it
The England Football Association has allowed Wembley to hold the group games at 25% capacity, and is likely to increase it as the tournament progresses.
Wembley will also host the last 16 match that was initially scheduled to be played in Dublin, where England would have played if they won their group.
Southgate’s boys will have to prove to the fans they have what it takes to ‘bring it home’, and they have the rare opportunity to do it in front of their fans at one of the most iconic stadiums in the world.
England have already proven they are a formidable team as during the qualification they scored 37 goals in eight games - winning seven and losing the other.
However, since qualification, the team disappointed in the Nations League, only managing third place.
The Three Lions have to stay focused, and if they can reach the semi-final, like they did at the last World Cup, they will have home ground advantage.
Some teams prove 'home advantage’ isn’t necessary
Belgium played against Russia on Saturday night at the Krestovsky Stadium in Saint Petersburg, Russia, and came out victorious against the team with a supposed 'home advantage’.
The Red Devils eased to a 3-0 victory playing in front of mostly Russian supporters.
The clinical Belgium side raced to a two-goal cushion by the 35th minute coming courtesy of Thomas Meunier, after Romelu Lukaku drew first blood at the 10-minute mark. The Inter Milan striker later sealed the win with a goal in the 88th minute.
The Belgians have proven that 'home advantage’ would not be of much help against a well-prepared and experienced team.
England have set their sights on the silverware, but even though the path to being European Champions could all be on home ground, Southgate’s side have a lot to prove and overcome if they want to show their fans they can ‘bring it home’. – The Vibes. June 14, 2021.
