Like the popular saying goes, if wishes were horses, beggers will ride; My situation and I believe that of most optimistic English fans during yesterday's final against Spain.
Undoubtedly, going into the game, Spain were the favourites and had been the best team in the tournament by a very wide margin, even when they fielded a second side in their last group game. A perfect seven of seven. You rarely see this at major tournaments.
When Spain dominated the opening exchanges, it was not unexpected. I expected them to dictate the tune of the game, which they did in commanding stature and not just that, they barely allowed England settle with their high press.
Chances were far and between but it was no surprise when Spain took the lead just as we resumed from the half time break. Lamine Yamal had clocked 17 a day before and even though he was somewhat stifled by England, his only single moment of brilliance at the time set up Nico Williams for that goal. I feel that was a lack of concentration from the England backline.
Maybe Southgate may have to be more drastic with his approach to games, especially with the decision of who to play upfront. Kane, no doubt cannot be ostracised from the team; however, I think where their game is growing to, they need a more mobile forward like Watkins who likes to run behind defences. It was evident when he was introduced that the Spanish defence had more to do than they had in the over one hour that Kane was on the pitch. Still, credit to Southgate for making that decision early to sub off Kane. I think that's progress.
I don't think anyone had doubted Cole Palmer's quality all season. I think I like his calmness, composure and confidence when on the ball and I think he got a deserving goal with that well taken strike to draw level. Again, it was a nice combination play between himself and Watkins that started that move, with the Villa man doing well to hold up play for Palmer who then released Saka on the right.
Aside from that layoff from Bellingham for Palmer's goal, he was overall off his game on the night. He lost balls on a number of occasions and wasn't able to exert his influence on his game. He's one of those that barely lived their potentials at this tournament, in the same shoe with Kylian Mbappe. I'm sure they'd turn their fortunes around back with Real Madrid
Like the first goal they conceded, I think the English defence went to sleep for a millisecond and that was enough for Spain to punish them. They had the momentum in their favour after that equaliser but at that level of the game, you need all your senses at 100% to see it through.
Bitterly, it's another case of "nearly" for England and I'm as pained as any English fan but I think Southgate better takes his lessons from this tournament. If after the next major tournament he falters, I see no reason why the FA should stick with him.