UEFA Nations League preview
England is set to face Croatia as a decisive match in the newly European nation competition on November 18th. A win against the 2018 World Cup runners-up will guarantee the top two places in the group along side Spain. The Nations League betting odds are in favor of the English playing in front of home crowd.
Both teams have faced each other twice this year already with different results. In July, Croatia eliminated England, 2-1 in overtime, at the World Cup semifinal round. In October both teams settled for a scoreless draw. Therefore England look to finally beat the Croatians at Wembley stadium to conclude Nations League group stage phase.
Three days before, English legend Wayne Rooney will wear the national jersey one last time. The former Manchester United and Everton and now forward of D.C. United club in MLS will honor his 120th cap. For his farewell match, coach Southgate selected him in the list of players and named him captain against the United States.
Wayne Rooney on an emotional evening to come:
“I am truly humbled and hugely excited to play for England at Wembley again. I would like to thank Gareth Southgate and The FA for inviting me back and helping to support my foundation in the process.
Playing for England was the greatest honour of my career, so winning my 120th – and final – cap will be a particularly special moment for me. I was lucky to enjoy a long and successful career with a great many people helping me to achieve my dreams.
It’s fitting that the match will be against the USA and I hope that both sets of fans enjoy the game.”
Coach Southgate added:
“The connection between The FA and former England players is something that has always been very important to me.
Acknowledging the Three Lions legacy has been a major part of our journey with this current group of young players. Wayne Rooney is a hugely significant part of that history.”
