LIVE INFO
MATCH PREVIEW & MORE INFO
England : possible starting lineup: Pickford; Alexander-Arnold, Guehi, Colwill, Lewis; Rice, Bellingham; Saka, Palmer, Foden; Watkins
Greece : possible starting lineup: Vlachodimos; Rota, Mavropanos, Koulierakis, Tsimikas; Siopis, Kourbelis; Masouras, Bakasetas, Tzolis; Pavlidis
Match Preview
As England prepare to face Greece, the significance of the match extends beyond just another Nations League fixture. England, under Lee Carsley's interim leadership, have been a disciplined and effective unit, securing two straight 2-0 wins. However, second place in the group isn't enough for Carsley, who is aware that England's ambitions stretch far beyond the playoff route. Securing first place would guarantee automatic promotion to League A, cementing Carsley's status as a strong candidate to lead the Three Lions permanently.
Carsley's management style has emphasized defensive solidity, as England have yet to concede a goal in this campaign. This trend could continue with experienced defenders like Kyle Walker returning to the fold and Trent Alexander-Arnold potentially preferred at right-back. In midfield, Jude Bellingham and Phil Foden provide creativity and flair, both of whom missed the September fixtures but are now ready to make an impact.
The absence of Harry Kane from full training could open the door for other attacking options. Ollie Watkins, fresh from a hat-trick for Aston Villa, is in excellent form and could be the key figure up front. Dominic Solanke, enjoying a resurgent season with Bournemouth, could also be handed a rare start after a long absence from the international scene. Meanwhile, Jack Grealish's potential absence due to injury may disrupt England’s attacking rhythm, but the depth in the squad allows for adaptable changes in the lineup.
For Greece, the loss of Fotis Ioannidis is a huge blow. His three goals in the last round of fixtures made him pivotal in Greece's push for the top spot. Vangelis Pavlidis, now at Benfica, will take up the mantle of leading the attack, but Greece may need more creativity from the midfield to unlock a stubborn English defense.
In addition to Ioannidis’ absence, Greece will rely heavily on the experience of their defense and Newcastle United’s Odysseas Vlachodimos, a goalkeeper who remains a dependable figure between the posts despite limited game time at club level. Greece, historically resilient, are known for their defensive organization and set-piece threat, which will be crucial at Wembley if they are to maintain their slender lead in the group.
Looking ahead, England’s immediate target is clear: take top spot and extend Carsley's unbeaten run to three matches, an achievement not seen since Fabio Capello in 2008. With home advantage and the depth in their squad, the Three Lions have every reason to feel confident. However, Greece, buoyed by their recent results and with a new manager eager to make a statement, won't make it easy for them.
This midweek clash at Wembley is a top-of-the-table affair, with both teams boasting perfect records thus far. England will hope to overcome a disciplined Greek side and continue their march back to the top tier of European football, while Greece look to further prove their League A credentials after years of struggle in the lower divisions.