Germany desperate to restore elite status while England expects

LONDON : It seems remarkable that Euro 2024 hosts Germany are not automatic favourites to win a tournament they used to dominate but instead head into the month-long event desperate to restore their position as the continent's heavyweights.

In the seven Euros from 1972-1996 Germany, or West Germany, made the final a remarkable five times, winning three, but in the six since their triumph over the Czech Republic 28 years ago they have made the final only once, losing to Spain in 2008.

Last time out they were easily beaten by England in the last 16 and, following two consecutive stunning World Cup first-round exits after winning the trophy in 2014, their reputation as the ultimate tournament team is becoming a distant memory.

That decade of disappointment has left Julian Nagelsmann, who took over as coach from Hansi Flick last October, dealing with a fanbase torn between their former confidence and a stark realisation that they no longer have a team everyone else fears.

While results last year were disappointing, wins in March over France and the Netherlands have given supporters the first glimmer of hope that the big beast of European football might again be stirring.

German champions Bayer Leverkusen's remarkable unbeaten season has brought a fresh feel to the domestic game and their inspiration, attacking midfielder Florian Wirtz, will hope his enthusiasm and creativity can similarly lift the national team.

Scoring goals, however, remains the greatest challenge, with Niclas Fuellkrug likely to carry that responsibility.

ENGLAND EXPECTS

As Germany's star has faded, England's has risen and they travel with a real belief that they can finally win a second major trophy after their 1966 World Cup triumph.

Although they have