Prem Watch: Matchday 2 of Euro 2024

1. Scott McTominay (Manchester United/Scotland)

Scott McTominay knows how to strike a ball. That much is clear. He became Scotland's talisman after he scored both goals in their shock win over Spain in the qualifiers. And that talent once again proved fruitful as Scotland drew 1-1 with Switzerland. His well-struck effort was given as a Swiss own goal for a couple of hours before UEFA came to their senses. McTominay was subsequently instrumental in midfield as Scotland fought hard for a point. Scotland has a faint chance of qualifying for the knockouts, but they must beat Hungary. Can they do it? If McTominay can step up again for Scotland, why not?

2. Phil Foden (Manchester City/England)

Phil Foden could be England's best player. All they need to do is put a wig on Guardiola and smuggle him into the England camp. It is clear to everyone with working eyes that Gareth Southgate has no idea how to deal with Foden. He put Foden on the wing against Serbia, which proved to be a fool's endeavour, as Foden was largely invisible. Southgate sought to change this by giving him creative freedom against Denmark. This seemed to set free the Man City midfielder, but that only meant he was free to shoot over the bar and refuse to pass to his teammates. This ended unceremoniously for Foden, as he was substituted after 60 minutes. England ended up limping to a draw against the Danish. In the coming days, there will be a media storm, with every England football fan looking to be the one to solve England's issues. The squad must keep their heads down and get in the right headspace for Slovenia. If they don't, the trophy won't come home soon.

3. Martin Dubravka (Newcastle United/Slovakia)

Martin Dubravka is, in some ways, an unlucky footballer. In the pre-Saudi era, he was one of the only Newcastle players who could hold his head high as the Geordies seemed to flirt with relegation perpetually. He was rewarded for his efforts by being relegated to the number 2 spot instead, deputising for Nick Pope. Dubravka is, of course, still the number 1 goalie for Slovakia. Unfortunately, he was at fault as Ukraine came from behind to win 2-1 against Slovakia. He seemed to jump out of the way as Yaremchuk guided the ball into the net for Ukraine's winner. Slovakia still has bragging rights after their impressive win against Belgium, but Dubravka and Co will have to up their game against Romania if they want to qualify.

4. Alex Zinchenko (Arsenal/Ukraine)

Can a player cover up a bad game with a great assist? If you underperform, you obviously risk letting the opposition control the game, as Slovakia did for most of their match vs Ukraine. But all it takes is one moment of magic, which is exactly what Alex Zinchenko provided. His fantastic cross to Shaparenko got Ukraine their equaliser and inspired them to beat Slovakia 2-1. Ukraine will be hoping they bounce back after their tough start and secure qualification in their next game against Belgium.

5. Bernardo Silva (Manchester City/Portugal)

Portugal will have harder matches than Turkiye, who capitulated quite spectacularly as Portugal ran out 3-0 winners, but they performed professionally and ably. Bernardo Silva is another Man City player who does not perform as well for country as he does for club. However, Silva gave Portugal the lead with a smart strike which Portugal on their way to an impressive victory. Portugal is in the knockout rounds and will be hoping to win the Euros again to give Ronaldo a fitting send-off for an incredible career.

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