Southgate is often criticised for excessive caution, and while that is unlikely to be an issue in this essentially meaningless match against North Macedonia, it does mean that England are usually defensively sound.

Moreover, Italy have not been as defensively secure as England in Group C, with only two clean sheets to their name - both against Malta. North Macedonia did manage to score twice against Italy last time out, but they were 3-0 down by the time they found the back of the net. The Three Lions have not yet conceded to North Macedonia or Malta, the two weakest teams in the group, and they should be able to shut out their upcoming opponents in Skopje.

In fact, only France and Portugal have better defensive records than England, who will be seeking a fifth clean sheet of the campaign on Monday. ⚽ Tip England to win both halves at 5/4 with bet365 ⚽ England to win to nil - 4/6 (bet365)Įngland have dominated Group C: not only have they amassed the most points, they have scored the most goals (21) and conceded the fewest (three). This should be a comfortable evening for Southgate and co. North Macedonia have only beaten Malta in this group, and they were thumped 7-0 by England at Wembley in the reverse fixture in June. Only a handful of players are guaranteed a place in the squad for the Euros, so a positive individual performance in an encounter like this could make all the difference given Southgate’s penchant for picking those who have done well for him in the past.

This dead rubber against North Macedonia will be long forgotten by the time Euro 2024 kicks off in June, but that does not mean it is of no significance.Įngland will not play again until March, so every match is important with so few remaining before the tournament.

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