Ollie Watkins’ last-minute goal sent England into the Euro 2024 final with a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in Berlin on Sunday. Gareth Southgate’s team seemed destined for extra time after Harry Kane’s controversial first-half penalty equalized Xavi Simons’ early strike, but Watkins’ late heroics ensured a dramatic win.
England dominated the first half, with Phil Foden making a significant impact. He hit the post with a long-range effort and forced a fine save from Dutch keeper Bart Verbruggen. The Netherlands, who had a header from Denzel Dumfries hit the bar before halftime, took control in the second half, but crucial saves from Jordan Pickford kept England level.
As the match appeared to be heading to extra time, Watkins, who came on for Kane, delivered a superb strike on the turn, securing England’s place in their second consecutive European Championship final.
Southgate’s Men on the Brink of Glory
England’s victory over the Netherlands has brought Gareth Southgate and his players within reach of ending 58 years of disappointment. The campaign in Germany has been a slow build, but this win has set up a chance for glory against favorites Spain at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.
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This will be England’s first final on foreign soil, as both the 1966 World Cup final and the Euro 2020 final were held at Wembley. The team has shown a knack for coming from behind in this tournament, surviving tense moments before sealing victory. Watkins’ late goal epitomized their resilience.
Reaching the final gives England a chance to redeem themselves after their penalty shootout defeat to Italy in the Euro 2020 final. Southgate’s tenure has been marked by near misses at major tournaments, but this match offers a chance to rewrite that narrative.
The introduction of Watkins with nine minutes left proved decisive. The Aston Villa striker added energy and pace, ultimately delivering the quality needed to win a tight game. While England will be underdogs against Spain, there is a belief within the team that they can finally secure the long-awaited silverware.
England’s Path to the Final
Despite an uneven tournament, England has made it to the final against Spain. Their resilience and refusal to be beaten have been key characteristics, especially in the semi-final against the Netherlands.
England’s first-half performance against the Netherlands was their best at Euro 2024. After falling behind to a stunning strike by Simons, they responded well. Foden was particularly effective, causing havoc in central areas, though he was later stifled by tighter Dutch marking.
Manchester United’s 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo delivered a mature and creative performance, showing confidence beyond his years. England also relied heavily on keeper Jordan Pickford, who made crucial saves to keep them in the game.
Southgate’s late substitutions were pivotal, with Cole Palmer setting up Watkins for the winning goal. While Kane and Jude Bellingham were less influential, the overall team effort contained enough positives to inspire optimism for the final.
Looking Forward: Spain Awaits in the Final
As England prepares to face Spain in the final, they do so with renewed confidence and hope. The team’s journey through the tournament has been marked by resilience and late-game heroics. With a chance to capture the elusive European Championship title, England is ready to give their all in Berlin.
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