England are “easiest opponents so far”, claims Effenberg

 

England will host Germany at Wembley in their round of 16 clash on Wednesday which what has all the makings of being a great match. Both the sides have been involved in many classic matches and this one has the potential to be right up there. Many former players and coaches have had a thing or two to say about the match up.

Stefan Effenberg has claimed that England are Germany’s “easiest opponent so far” at Euro 2020. England topped their group by winning 2 matches and drawing one. Moreover, they didn’t concede a single goal. On the other hand, Germany finished second in their group and could have easily been knocked out had they not scored the late equaliser against Hungary.

“I think England will be our easiest opponents so far,” the former Germany midfielder told Sport1.

“In the group, we had world champions France, European champions Portugal and Hungary as incredibly difficult opponents.

“We survived it.”

“The English have not yet really had an impact on the tournament and the attack around Harry Kane – which distinguishes them – has not appeared at all,” Effenberg added on the Three Lions’ performances.

“So, I’m sure we will win the game. The pressure is on the English. You play at home. Even if it’s a young team, they are expected to win the title.”

Germany have had one great game in the entire tournament, but have been slightly toothless going forward in the other two matches. England have been poor while attacking as well, but they have kept a clean sheet in all three games which might make it hard for a side like Germany to find a way past them.

Germany have a great record against England in the past. They have won 7 of the 11 encounters which is a hefty lead. The most recent meeting between the two sides on a competitive stage came at the 2010 World Cup, and Germany triumphed 4-1 to progress to the quarter-finals at the expense of Fabio Capello’s team.