England is set to take a step closer to European Championship success as they prepare to battle Slovakia in the last-16 stage at Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen on Sunday.
Despite clinching the top spot in Group C with a win and two draws, the Three Lions' displays have left much to be desired, particularly their lackluster attacking performances that have faced significant criticism.
Slovakia secured a spot as one of the best third-placed teams, with all four teams in their group finishing level on four points, but they are up against a tough challenge to advance.
Team news
Phil Foden is likely to feature for England after returning from the UK following the birth of his third child, while Luke Shaw has been participating in training and is set to be in the lineup.
Declan Rice and Kieran Trippier underwent separate training sessions on Thursday but are expected to play their part in the upcoming match.
Kobbie Mainoo is poised to replace Conor Gallagher in midfield after an impressive performance in the second half of the 0-0 draw with Slovenia.
For Slovakia, Ondrej Duda is set to continue in the starting XI despite coming off with cramp in the previous game.
The stats
England scored only twice in the group stage for the second consecutive European Championship, boasting a solid defensive record with just one goal conceded, second only to Spain (0).
The Three Lions have a perfect record against Slovakia, winning five and drawing one in their six encounters, with a recent 2-1 victory in 2017 featuring goals from Eric Dier and Marcus Rashford.
Slovakia has never progressed beyond the last-16 stage in the European Championship, being eliminated at this point in 2016 and the group stage in the tournament three years ago.
Following a surprising 1-0 victory over Belgium in their opening match, Slovakia suffered a 2-1 defeat to Ukraine before drawing 1-1 with Romania to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Prediction
England has faced criticism for their lack of attacking flair in the group stage, and another cautious display is anticipated despite the desire for more dynamism.
The Three Lions' struggles in front of goal, netting only twice in three matches against moderate opposition, could pose a concern, although their defensive solidity, with just one goal conceded, remains a positive.
Against a defensive Slovakia side, England is expected to have the quality to break through and secure progression in what may be a tense, low-scoring contest in Germany.
Slovakia is likely to adopt a defensive approach, looking to absorb pressure, but England should have the necessary quality to create opportunities and secure their spot in the next round.