Gareth Southgate believes England will be getting the best preparation for Euro 2024 by taking on Brazil and Belgium in March.
The FA has announced the Three Lions will take on the Samba stars on March 23 at Wembley before the Red Devils visit three days later. The two friendlies will help England prepare for their Euros campaign in Germany after they secured qualification last month.
Southgate said: “I am happy to have two strong matches in March as we build towards the Euro finals. It is important we take every opportunity to test ourselves against top opposition.”
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England finish off their Euro qualification campaign with games against Malta and North Macedonia later this month. Southgate is keen to ensure there’s no complacency as he eyes top spot in the group to ensure a top seed for the Euros draw.
He added: “Before then, we have our last qualifiers against Malta and North Macedonia coming up. Getting two positive results is essential if we are to make sure of being top seeds in the Euro draw next month.
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“We can’t afford to think the job is done as there is still work to do, while every second for us together in camp counts if we are to give ourselves the best chance of success next summer.”
England are attempting to go one better than their runner-up finish at Euro 2020 when the quest for continental glory begins anew in Germany. The Three Lions finished second to Italy at Wembley two years ago and look capable of another fierce challenge for the crown.
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Southgate's side have already boosted their confidence with home-and-away wins over the Azzurri during qualifying. They toppled Italy – now coached by Luciano Spalletti – 2-1 in Naples before delivering an even more impressive 3-1 result at Wembley in October.
The rest of Europe will be watching as Harry Kane & co build momentum in the search for England's maiden European title. And two top-class friendlies will go a long way to ensuring the team is at its best ahead of a summer showcase for the ages.
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