Phil Foden, John Stones and Kyle Walker all started as England endured a goalless draw with Slovenia to finish top of Group C at Euro 2024.
Gareth Southgate’s side saw their chances restricted in Cologne, but a 0-0 draw between Denmark and Serbia on the night’s other tie ensured five points was enough for the Three Lions to end at the summit of the group.
They will now face one of the third place sides in the Round of 16 on Sunday night, with the exact opponents to be confirmed tomorrow night when the group stage is complete.
While England again struggled to create openings in the first half, Foden was the brightest spark on the pitch.
Our Academy graduate thought he had assisted England’s first of the night after 20 minutes when he passed across goal for Bukayo Saka, but the flag was quickly raised for offside against our man.
The game grew increasingly disjointed as it wore on, with England slow to build up and Slovenia defending stubbornly.
Stones came close to the opener as the hour approached, rising high to head at goal but seeing it blocked on the line.
There was something fresh for Walker, who spent the closing stages at left-back after Kieran Trippier was substituted.
Foden remained England’s best hope of a goal until his removal in the 89th minute for Newcastle winger Anthony Gordon.
England couldn’t find a winner but the stalemate in Munich ensured Southgate’s men topped the table of four.
The Three Lions will play their Round of 16 clash in Gelsenkirchen on Sunday at 17:00 (UK), with the opponents to be confirmed when Euro 2024’s group stage ends on Wednesday with Groups E and F playing their final matches.
Belgium, with Kevin De Bruyne and Jeremy Doku in their ranks, will be looking to beat Ukraine and top Group E.
