Juan Mata admits Spain are AFRAID of England ahead of the Euro 2024 final - as the ex-Chelsea and Man United star warns how the Three Lions can punish them in the Berlin showpiece

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Juan Mata has admitted that Spain are afraid of England in the build up to the Euro 2024 final in Berlin.

The Spain legend, who scored in the Euro 2012 final to see his country lift the trophy for a second consecutive time, claimed that his compatriots back home are fearful of the Three Lions and the attacking threats they possess.

'We [Spain] are afraid,' Mata said on the BBC's coverage of the final. 'Yesterday I was confident, today I am afraid.

'You [England] have players that can win a game in a second. We know we come into this final as favourites but we know what England are capable of.'

The former Chelsea and Manchester United midfielder explained that his country must be wary of not getting caught on the break – otherwise Harry Kane and Co will punish them. 

Juan Mata has admitted that Spain are afraid of England ahead of the Euro 2024 final

Harry Kane and the Three Lions are hoping to win their first ever European Championship

'We want to attack but we need to be careful because if we do that then there will be space in behind and we can be exposed. If England do that, we will be in trouble,' Mata added.

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'In terms of the critics and people saying Kane is not at his best is like Morata. Morata opens the space for the wingers and he is doing a good job. I really hope Morata can score today, as it will put a lot of his critics to bed.'

At the other end of the pitch saw Luke Shaw named in England's starting XI.

The Manchester United defender has not started a game since February following a hamstring issue but has worked back to full fitness during the finals and came in for Kieran Trippier in Berlin.

It was the only change made by manager Gareth Southgate following the 2-1 semi-final win over the Netherlands.

Shaw came off the bench in both the quarter-final victory over Switzerland and then at half-time against the Dutch.

Mata explained Spain must be wary of not getting caught on the break given England's attack

He opened the scoring just two minutes into the final of Euro 2020 where England ultimately lost on penalties to Italy.

Spain, meanwhile, showed two changes from their own 2-1 semi-final victory over France as Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand came back into the defence.