The final countdown to UEFA Euro 2024 has officially begun as we approach a string of highly anticipated international friendlies. Some of the nations that are playing this week are heading for the big tournament and others aren’t, but either way, it’s important for all of them to try and build some momentum. Today, we’ll be taking a look at the impending clash between England and Iceland.

England fans are desperate to get their hands on a piece of silverware and after falling short at the World Cup, they’ll hope they can get the job done when they head to Germany this summer - but the Three Lions often seem cursed at the elite level. Gareth Southgate is being given the chance to lead them forward once again but if they can’t pull it off this time, serious questions will need to be asked.

England managed to win their group fairly comfortably in qualifying, and they did so by going unbeaten with six wins and two draws. They were able to breeze through so many of their opponents, which should give them some real confidence heading into the summer.

That sensational 2016 Iceland side feels a long way away from where they are right now. They served as the ultimate underdog story and although many still look at them in that light, we’d argue that the shoe doesn’t really fit anymore. Perhaps if they can get back to the root of their initial style and capitalise on their chances like they used to, they could start to surge back into contention.

In what proved to be a super competitive qualifying group, Iceland finished in 4th place behind Portugal, Slovakia and Luxembourg. They did, however, qualify for the play-offs via the Nations League. Alas, after battering Israel 4-1 in the semis, they fell to a 2-1 defeat against Ukraine in the final.

In a game like this, the whole point is to do everything in your power to make an impact - but at the same time, there are far more important matches that lie ahead. Therefore, while we do think there will be some big moments here and there, our official prediction is under 2.5 goals scored.