England vs. Russia Euro 2016 Preview, Predictions, Schedule & Streaming Info As Wayne Rooney Looks For Euro Glory

Created by Francisco Salazar Jun 10 2016, 05:10 AM EDT

England and Russia face off in the Euro 2016 on Saturday.

Both teams are seen as potential favorites to get out of the group with the English the clear favorites to be the leaders of Group B.

Wayne Rooney's last stand

The English are coming off a 1-0 win over Portugal thanks to a goal from Chris Smalling. Coach Roy Hodgson gave Wayne Rooney a shot at leading the line alongside James Vardy and Harry Kane. Rooney will be a focal point in this tournament as the 30-year-old takes on what might be his final major tournament as a starter.

Rooney has been a disaster on the world stage, failing to score goals in any World Cup until his goal against Uruguay in the 2014 tournament. He has been better in Europe, scoring four goals in his debut tournament back in 2004. During the Euro 2012, he played two games and scored one goal.

This tournament could define his legacy as his decline is underway and his status as a mainstay on this team could be coming to a close.

Russia looks to impress before 2018 World Cup

Russia is looking to make up for what seems to be one blunder after another on the international stage. Given an "easy" group in the 2014 World Cup that included Belgium, Korea Republic and Algeria, the team managed to not garner a single victory as it was eliminated from contention after three games. The team did have a strong Euro 2008, but Russia needs a strong display this year with the 2018 World Cup at home coming in just two years. This generation of players is entering its prime and is expected to be a major player in two years. A poor showing here could bode poorly for the spectacle in two years.

Player to watch

Can Wayne Rooney make a comeback? He is no longer viewed as England's best player and has been passed over by youth. Yet as the captain he is still getting a chance to have an impact and needs a big game on Saturday to keep that faith going. He is the team's top scorer ever but has rarely produced in big games on major stages.

History is split

Both teams have won one and lost one in this matchup with both games being played during Euro 2008 qualifiers. England won 3-0 at home in September 2007 before losing 2-1 in Russia one month later.