Ollie Watkins proved to be the hero of the night as his last-minute winner led England to a 2-1 victory against the Netherlands, securing a spot in the Euro 2024 final against Spain. In a thrilling semi-final clash that took place on Wednesday, the stadium witnessed an incredible turn of events, underscoring the spirit and resolve of Gareth Southgate’s squad. The match, which began dismally for England, saw a rollercoaster of emotions before culminating in a dramatic injury-time goal from Watkins.
The evening initially promised disaster for England when the Netherlands took an early lead. Dutch forward Xavi Simons showcased his brilliance by seizing an opportunity just seven minutes into the game. Simons intercepted a loose pass from Declan Rice, advancing with formidable speed and precision to unleash a powerful shot from 35 meters that sailed beyond England’s goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. This early setback marked the third consecutive game in which England found themselves trailing, raising questions about the team’s defensive sturdiness.
Despite the early blow, England managed to rally, driven by sheer determination. The first half continued with multiple attempts from the English side. Harry Kane appeared particularly threatening, though his efforts initially missed the mark. Kane’s persistence, however, paid off when a controversial incident shifted the momentum. Engaged in an aerial duel, Kane was inadvertently caught by Denzel Dumfries’ follow-through, an incident initially dismissed as innocuous. But the German referee, Felix Zwayer, upon further review through VAR, awarded England a penalty—a decision hotly contested by the Dutch side.
Kane coolly converted the penalty, placing England on level terms and restoring hope for the Three Lions. The game then saw several thrilling moments, including Bukayo Saka’s disallowed goal due to an offside ruling against Kyle Walker, that kept fans on the edge of their seats. As normal time drew to a close, both teams seemed to prepare for the prospect of extra time. However, Southgate had other plans.
In an inspired move, Coach Gareth Southgate introduced Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer onto the pitch, substituting for Kane and Phil Foden.
. This decision proved pivotal. In the first minute of stoppage time, Palmer found an open space and delivered a precise pass to Watkins, who was positioned with his back to the goal. Demonstrating remarkable control and composure under pressure, Watkins turned swiftly and drove the ball low into the far corner of the net, leaving Dutch goalkeeper Justin Bijlow and the entire Netherlands team stunned.
“I’m lost for words really. I don’t think I’ve hit a ball that sweet before, and in such a special moment,” said a visibly emotional Watkins, reflecting on his match-winning goal. The Aston Villa star’s remarkable strike not only sealed the victory for England but also emphasized the depth and potency of Southgate’s squad, which has often been criticized for its inconsistency throughout the tournament.
While the victory was a cause for celebration for England, it brought disappointment and reflection for the Netherlands. Aiming for a repeat of their 1998 European Championship triumph, the Dutch side was left to rue what might have been. “I’m disappointed about the result in a match which started really good. A great goal, and then it’s over,” remarked Dutch coach Ronald Koeman, highlighting the abrupt end to their campaign.
Gareth Southgate, maintaining his usual calm and measured tone, acknowledged the challenges ahead as England prepares to face Spain in the final. “We play the team who’ve been the best team in the tournament and we have a day less to prepare so it’s a huge task, but we’re still here and we’re fighting,” he stated. England’s journey to the final has not been without its hurdles, but Southgate’s leadership and adaptability have steered the team towards an opportunity to capture their first major trophy since 1966.
With a day less to rest and strategize, England’s path to potential glory is fraught with challenges. Spain has demonstrated formidable strength throughout the tournament. However, if the Three Lions can channel the same resilience and perform with the same tenacity as they did against the Netherlands, they may very well bring the coveted trophy home.
As football fans worldwide gear up for Sunday’s showdown in Berlin, the stage is set for what promises to be an epic clash of titans. England, buoyed by Watkins’ heroics and the unyielding spirit of their squad, will stand toe-to-toe with Spain in what could be a defining moment in English football history.
