Euro 2024: England defeat Netherlands 2-1, play final against Spain Sunday

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England beat the Netherlands in their Euro 2024 semi final on Wednesday in Germany, to set a final match with Spain who defeated France in the earlier semi finsl game played in Tuesdsy.

The win indicates that England are through to their first ever major tournament final on foreign soil, an achievement Southgate believes is his best in his eight-year reign in charge of the Three Lions.

Ollie Watkins’ late winner secured the win for England, who had to come from behind following Xavi Simons’ early opener.

England weren’t deterred, though. Just seven minutes after going a goal down, Harry Kane won a penalty – albeit in controversial circumstances – and the captain rose to his feet to equalise.

The second half was goalless until Watkins, introduced for Kane with 10 minutes to go, neatly controlled Cole Palmer’s pass and arrowed in a stunning strike to set up a meeting with Spain.

According to Southgate, “I think it has to be the best achievement. The way we played – it was a complicated game, we had to keep changing defensively. The end is so special for the squad.”

England boss Gareth Southgate ranks Euro 2024 semi-final triumph over Netherlands among his list of achievements as he hails Bukayo Saka & Phil Foden.

Gareth Southgate hailed Bukayo Saka and Phil Foden after guiding England to their first major international tournament final on foreign soil.

Southgate, who spoke to ITV at full time, said: “Sometimes subs can work that way, the most important thing is every member of the squad is ready to come into the game. I’ve spent a lot of time with the players and their attitude has been exemplary.

“We felt energy wise, we gelt we were losing a bit of pressure. Ollie can press well and make those runs in behind. We also had Phil’s shot cleared off the line, a disallowed goal. We deserved it tonight.

“We were fluid in formation, Bukayo did a brilliant job. I think that is as well as Phil’s played in an England shirt, he had a huge influence on the game. You look at the numbers, it was like we were playing away but not with the noise.”

England now have the chance to end 58 years of hurt for the men’s team when they take on Spain in the final on Sunday.