By England’s national soccer team, under the guidance of interim manager Lee Carsley, is set to face Finland in a Nations League match at Wembley Stadium on Tuesday.
The Three Lions, relegated to League B in the previous Nations League campaign, began their new chapter with a convincing 2-0 victory over the Republic of Ireland in Dublin on Saturday. Goals from Declan Rice and Jack Grealish, both former Ireland youth internationals, secured the win for England.
Carsley, who took charge following Gareth Southgate’s departure, aims to build on the team’s strong start. “We showed great control and dynamism against Ireland,” Carsley said. “Now we’re looking to maintain that momentum at Wembley.”
England, currently atop their Nations League group, faces a Finland side ranked 63rd in the world. The Finnish team, absent from Euro 2024, suffered a 3-0 defeat to Greece in their opening Nations League fixture.
History favors the hosts, with England undefeated in nine previous encounters against Finland. Their last meeting, a World Cup qualifier in 2001, ended in a 2-1 victory for England.
Carsley may introduce fresh faces to the lineup, with Morgan Gibbs-White and Angel Gomes pushing for starts after making their debuts as substitutes against Ireland. John Stones and Eberechi Eze are also contenders to feature in the starting XI.
Finland, managed by long-time coach Markku Kanerva, faces injury concerns. Midfielders Kaan Kairinen and Rasmus Schuller are doubtful after sustaining knocks in their previous match.
The match kicks off at 19:45 BST at Wembley Stadium, with Danish referee Morten Krogh Hansen officiating.
England’s strong home record and recent form make them clear favorites, but Carsley remains cautious. “In international football, you can’t take any opponent lightly,” he said. “We’ll approach this game with the same focus and determination we showed in Dublin.”
