Image of Declan Rice
As England prepares for the Euro 2024 final against Spain this Sunday at Berlin's Olympiastadion, midfielder Declan Rice emphasizes the need for an aggressive approach. Drawing from the heartbreak of their Euro 2020 defeat, Rice and his teammates are determined not to sit back and let history repeat itself.
Rice, who is part of the squad that faced Italy in the 2020 final, admitted that watching Italy lift the trophy is a memory that still haunts him. He stated that the team is eager to "rewrite history" and sees this final as a chance to change their narrative. “We are desperate to do it,” Rice said, acknowledging the pain of that past loss while recognizing the importance of learning from it.
Reflecting on the lessons learned, Rice noted the team’s recent 2-1 victory over the Netherlands as a significant improvement that could play a vital role in their strategy against a strong Spanish side. “We have massive respect for them,” he said, while also highlighting the importance of enjoying the moment. Winning the semi-final was a step forward, but Rice knows that this final is where the real challenge lies.
When asked about any “unfinished business” from Euro 2020, Rice responded affirmatively, stressing that this is a new opportunity to create their own legacy. He recognizes that to succeed, the team must control the game and avoid the mistakes of past tournaments, especially the tendency to play defensively when under pressure.
Rice also praised Spain’s rising star, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, noting his exceptional talent and the strong Spanish squad overall. He expressed admiration for the experience and skill Spain brings to the match, but he feels prepared for the challenge. “I feel good,” he said, pointing out that the team has effectively kept possession in their last two games against Switzerland and the Netherlands.
Despite the physical demands of the match, Rice is confident in the team's stamina and readiness. He believes that their recent performances demonstrate a solid understanding of playing together, which is crucial for a successful final.
In the semi-final against the Netherlands, although the match was tense, Rice felt England could have won by a larger margin. He reflected on the strong team rhythm in the first half and expressed pride in the emotional win secured by Ollie Watkins' late goal. The journey to this final has not been easy, but moments like that highlight the team's resilience.
Rice is optimistic about the tactical decisions ahead of the final, whether the manager chooses to maintain their current five-man defense or switch to a four-man setup. Regardless of the formation, he believes the squad is strong and united.
As they approach this monumental match, Rice and his teammates are not only fighting for victory but also to bring joy to their fans and honor their manager, Gareth Southgate. “We’re back to back, so hopefully we can do it,” he concluded, embodying the team’s determination to succeed.
