The stage is set in Trnava, Slovakia, as England's Under-21 squad faces Spain in a highly anticipated quarter-final clash of the UEFA European Under-21 Championship. This match is a repeat of the 2023 final, where England secured a narrow 1-0 victory, claiming their first title in 39 years, and adds extra spice to what promises to be a thrilling encounter.

England's journey to this stage hasn't been entirely smooth. After a comfortable 3-1 win against Czechia in their opening match, they were held to a frustrating goalless draw by Slovenia and then suffered a 2-1 defeat against Germany. Despite the loss, they managed to secure their place in the quarter-finals, albeit as runners-up in Group B. Coach Lee Carsley expressed his disappointment with the team's start against Germany, emphasizing the need for a much quicker and more intense approach against Spain. The Young Lions will need to improve their sharpness in front of goal, having scored only four times from 54 goal attempts in the group stage. Predicted England XI: Beadle; Livramento, Cresswell, Quansah, Iling-Junior; Anderson, Scott; Nwaneri, Elliott, Hutchinson; Rowe.

Spain, in contrast, topped Group A, displaying resilience and scoring late goals in their wins against Slovakia (3-2) and Romania (2-1). A 1-1 draw against Italy secured their position at the summit. They have reached the quarter-finals in their last five appearances and have a solid record at this stage of the competition. However, defensive concerns linger, as they have conceded in all three of their matches so far. Santi Denia's side will be eager to avenge their 2023 final defeat and continue their quest for a sixth U21 title. Predicted Spain XI: Cunat; Pubill, Marin, Herzog, Garcia; Jauregizar, Marin; Moro, Torre, Rodriguez; Fernandez.

Looking back at their head-to-head record, England has historically held the upper hand against Spain at the U21 level. However, Spain possesses a squad with considerable talent. Both teams are capable of finding the net, but their defensive vulnerabilities could make for a high-scoring affair.

Carsley has played down the "underdog" tag, expressing confidence in his team's ability to perform. He stressed the importance of matching Spain's intensity and physicality to control the game.

The match kicks off at 8pm BST at the Anton Malatinsky Stadium in Trnava and will be broadcast live on Channel 4 in the UK. The winner of this quarter-final will face either Portugal or the Netherlands in the semi-final in Bratislava on June 25.