England boffins targeting Slovakia’s biggest weakness as Newcastle goalkeeper Dubravka’s major flaw emerges
ENGLAND have identified Martin Dubravka’s poor penalty record as a potential Slovakia weakness ahead of tomorrow’s round-of-16 clash.
Gareth Southgate‘s side will look to put a series of underwhelming group stage performances behind them as they take on Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen.
While the Three Lions boss’ various selection dilemmas have dominated discussions among fans, those behind the scenes are also looking to find any weaknesses in their opponents that they can exploit.
Among them is Dubravka’s poor record when facing shots from 12 yards.
According to Newcastle World, England’s data team have identified the Toon goalkeeper’s struggles while facing penalties.
Dubravka has faced 34 penalties in his career, preventing just six from going in.
This gives him a save percentage of just 17.6, which could serve to encourage England stars should the match go to penalties.
The 35-year-old has already conceded a spot kick at Euro 2024, with Romanian Razvan Marin converting beyond him.
In fact, he has never stopped a penalty low to his right in his entire career.
He has saved two spot-kicks in the last six years.
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One came against Mohamed Salah during a Prem clash with Liverpool last term.
While the other was from Alvaro Morata at Euro 2020.
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Southgate, 53, is set to make a change to his midfield for the Gelsenkirchen clash.
Conor Gallagher will drop out, to be replaced by Manchester United‘s Kobbie Mainoo.
At left-back, Kieran Trippier has been suffering with a calf issue.
But he is expected to be available for tomorrow’s match, while Luke Shaw has also returned to full training.