In a dramatic climax, substitute Ollie Watkins secured England’s place in the UEFA EURO 2024 final with a stunning added-time winner against the Netherlands in Dortmund. England will now face Spain in the final on Sunday.
Match Summary: England Triumph in Thriller
The semi-final kicked off with pyrotechnics that were quickly matched by the on-pitch action. Xavi Simons gave the Netherlands an early lead with a brilliant strike past Jordan Pickford just seven minutes in. England, for the third consecutive knockout match, found themselves trailing.
However, Harry Kane equalized 11 minutes later with a flawless penalty after Denzel Dumfries’ infringement. The game continued at a frenetic pace with both teams creating numerous chances. Dumfries’ goal-line clearance and his subsequent header against the bar, along with Phil Foden’s curling effort hitting the upright, kept fans on the edge of their seats.
The second half evolved into a tactical battle with fewer chances but maintained high intensity. As extra time loomed, Ollie Watkins emerged as the hero. In stoppage time, he received a pass from fellow substitute Cole Palmer, created a sliver of space, and drilled the ball into the far corner, igniting celebrations among England supporters.
Vivo Player of the Match: Ollie Watkins (England)
The UEFA Technical Observer panel awarded Ollie Watkins the Player of the Match for his impactful performance off the bench and his decisive individual goal.
Derek Brookman, Netherlands Reporter
The Netherlands put on a much-improved second-half performance but suffered a late heartbreak. They put significant pressure on England’s defense, with Jordan Pickford making several crucial saves. Wout Weghorst served as an effective target man, facilitating play for his teammates, but the finishing touch eluded them.
Joe Terry, England Reporter
England showcased their resilience once again with a dramatic late victory. Despite not being able to capitalize on their first-half momentum and being outplayed slightly in the second half by the Dutch, England’s defense remained solid, as it has throughout the tournament. Ollie Watkins’ late goal secured their place in the EURO final for the second consecutive edition.
Match Reactions
- Ollie Watkins, England forward: “I’ve been waiting for that moment for weeks. I got the opportunity and took it with both hands. It was the best feeling ever.”
- Gareth Southgate, England manager: “We felt, energy-wise, we were starting to lose pressure. Ollie can press well and get those runs in behind. I’m immensely proud to take England to a first major final overseas.”
- Ronald Koeman, Netherlands coach: “I’m disappointed. We started well but had problems in midfield. We regained control but conceded a very good goal at the end.”
- Jude Bellingham, England midfielder: “Ollie came on and won it. He’s the hero and saved us. We’ve delivered again. It’s about bringing that into the final.”
Key Stats
- England reached their second EURO final, following their 2021 final loss to Italy.
- England joins the ranks of teams reaching back-to-back EURO finals, a feat previously achieved by the USSR, Germany, and Spain.
- Harry Kane set a record with six EURO knockout goals, surpassing Antoine Griezmann.
- Kane also became the third player to score in successive semi-finals.
- England have lost just one of their last 20 competitive matches.
- Xavi Simons, at 22 years and 125 days, is the second youngest Dutchman to score at a EURO.
- The Netherlands have only one win in six EURO semi-finals.
Line-ups
- Netherlands: Verbruggen; Dumfries (Zirkzee 90+3), De Vrij, Van Dijk, Aké; Schouten, Simons (Brobbey 90+3), Reijnders; Malen (Weghorst 46), Depay (Veerman 35), Gakpo
- England: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guéhi; Saka (Konsa 90+3), Mainoo (Gallagher 90+3), Rice, Trippier (Shaw 46); Foden (Palmer 80), Kane (Watkins 81), Bellingham
England’s resilience and tactical prowess have set up a highly anticipated final against Spain in Berlin. With a blend of experienced and young talent, they aim to claim their first European Championship title.
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