Euro 2016: Look away England fans, the last time the Three Lions played in St Etienne was THAT Argentina game at the 1998 World Cup
Roy Hodgson and Co will be hoping to have a slightly more drama-free clash at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard 18 years on
ENGLAND are currently preparing for their final Group B showdown of Euro 2016 as they take on Slovakia in Saint-Etienne.
The Three Lions have endured a mixed bag so far this tournament – first of all shipping a late equaliser against Russia to drop two points, before netting a crucial, last-gasp strike against Wales to snatch a famous win.
But the real story of the night doesn’t involve Slovakia or Wales, or even Russia… It’s all about the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard.
The last time the Three Lions graced the St Etienne turf, was against a certain old enemy, Argentina.
And what a thriller it was.
Firstly, Argentinian legend Gabriel Batistuta got his side off to a flying start, netting in the fourth minute from the penalty spot, having been brought down by David Seaman.
Alan Shearer quickly got England back on level terms – also from the penalty spot, before a young Michael Owen scored one of the greatest England goals of all time.
The then Liverpool man weaved through a number of defenders before unleashing a powerful shot into the top left hand corner of the net, aged just 18.
In a breathless first half, Argentina levelled up proceedings through a Javier Zanetti free-kick.
And in case you’d forgotten this game in St Etienne also saw David Beckham’s infamous kick out at Diego Simeone, resulting in a red card.
The knockout stage game ultimately went to penalties, with England missing out on a spot in the quarter finals thanks to a tame Gareth Batty penalty.
No doubt Roy will be hoping to avoid any of the dramatics tonight… At least the thought of penalties can be left in the back of the mind for now.
But which of the present day squad resemble some of the stars on show that fateful night at the Stade Geoffroy-Guichard?
Well, if we need a Shearer to step up and take a powerful spot kick, that honour would surely go to Harry Kane.
The Tottenham man has been in scintillating form through 2015-16 and is something of a spot-kick specialist – that friendly miss against Turkey aside.
Who would play the role of Seaman? Joe Hart of course. Hodgson will be hoping he manages to avoid any unnecessary contact in the box against the Slovakians, mind you.
Then there’s the wonderkid bursting onto the back pages with a stunning solo strike. I give you Marcus Rashford.
The youngster looked cool and collected in his first competitive game when he came on against Wales and may be given another chance against Martin Skrtel and Co.
Which of England’s midfield ranks will be our Becks for the day?
You’d have to go with Jack Wilshere on that one. He’s never shied away from controversy but would also be hugely missed if he were to see red on the night.
When all is said and done, England v Slovakia in St Etienne won’t be as exciting as that night in 98.
It just couldn’t be… Could it?