Euro 2024: Watkins sends England to final
England 2 - 1 Netherlands
I know that was then, but it could be again...
England will face Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin on Sunday following a last-minute goal from substitute Ollie Watkins that secured a win over the Netherlands.
The Three Lions looked like they would be facing extra time for the third successive game after Harry Kane's first-half penalty equalised a stunning early strike from Xavi Simon.
However, there was to be a dramatic twist. A superb late strike on the turn from the substitute Watkins sent England into their second successive European Championship final on a fantastic night in Dortmund.
A chance now for Southgate and England to make history.
England will play their first final on foreign soil since. The final of the 1966 World Cup and Euro 2021 took place at Wembley.
True to their form in Germany, they reached the stage by coming from behind, enduring some tense moments, and eventually clinching victory through that late goal from Watkins. When the ball crossed the line, within seconds Watkins was mobbed by players and coaches in scenes that every fan will remember forever.
This final represents an opportunity of redemption for England following their heartbreaking penalty shootout loss to Italy at Wembley in that Euro 2021 final. If England can beat Spain, every single player becomes a legend.
The best reaction
This video from the European Super Football YouTube account shows how the England fans in Dortmund have celebrated the victory.
Mark, a Preston fam told us: "That was a much better performance from England, especially the first half. Much higher up the pitch, passing forward, prepared to make the difficult pass. Good to see. Foden was excellent in first half, ridiculous that people are saying too drop him. Mainoo was great again too. Walker is also getting back to his best. The 2nd half was a bit disappointing, but then what a goal from Watkins at the end, incredible finish. Much better!"
Lauren, a Chelsea fan from Greater Manchester, was full of praise for the England manager. She said: "There seemed to be a deep strength within Gareth Southgate. He was gesturing to the crowd, and I read his lips; he said 'one more' to the crowd, and they responded to him. This final is going to be amazing to watch."
This was the thoughts of Josh Thomas, a Senior Content Writer for European Super Football. As you can see, he was clearly very happy with everything."
Peter, a Villa fan, was delighted for Ollie Watkins. He said: "I watch this player every week for Villa. His game is all about stretching and getting beyond defenders. He did it so well for England against the Netherlands. I'd also argue that the Spanish defenders would rather play against Kane than him. Harry is a fantastic player but strong pace and strength will frighten any defence."
