England Stumble, Greece Soar: Pavlidis Double Sinks Three Lions
England's Euro 2024 qualifying campaign took a massive blow on Friday night as they suffered a shock 2-1 defeat at home to Greece. The Three Lions, considered favorites for the tournament, were undone by a dominant Greek performance, with Giorgos Pavlidis scoring two goals and putting England on the back foot.
The match started with England dominating possession, but they struggled to break down a resolute Greek defense. Greece, on the other hand, looked dangerous on the counter-attack, and they took the lead in the 51st minute when Pavlidis expertly volleyed home a cross from Kostas Fortounis.
The lead could have been doubled just minutes later, but England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made a fantastic save to deny a close-range shot. However, Greece's pressure eventually paid off, with Pavlidis adding a second goal in the 73rd minute. The striker took advantage of a defensive lapse, slotting the ball past Pickford and doubling Greece's lead.
England pulled one back late on through Harry Kane, but it was too little too late. The defeat leaves England in second place in Group C, behind Greece who now sit top of the table. It was a night to forget for Gareth Southgate's side, as they were outplayed and out-fought by a determined Greek side.
This result sends shockwaves through the England camp and will undoubtedly raise questions about their chances of qualifying for Euro 2024. With a difficult qualification campaign ahead, England need to regroup quickly and find a way to turn things around.
Keywords: England, Greece, Euro 2024, Qualifying, Pavlidis, Goal, Defeat, Three Lions, Southgate, Group C, Harry Kane, Jordan Pickford, Fortounis.
