England took on Netherlands in the semi-final of Euro 2024. The match ended with 2-1 victory for the three lions. Gareth Southgate’s side has now reached the Euro final for two consecutive times. In Euro 2020 which was actually held in 2021, England had to face defeat against Italy in the final on their home turf. This year Southgate will want to finally end the trophy drought of three lions. Against Netherlands, a lot of players had a great game. Ollie Watkins is one of those who took very little time to make an impact and send England all the way to final.
It was only in the 7th minute when Xavi Simmons dispossessed Declan Rice. Simmons took a superb shot from outside of the England’s penalty area which found the back of the net. Jordon Pickford tried his best but was unable to keep it out. In 16th minute England were awarded a penalty for the challenge made by Denzel Dumfries on Harry Kane. The England skipper made no mistake in making the scores level. Later, both teams tried very hard and even came very close but were unable to find the back of the net.
Gareth Southgate decided to introduce Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins as substitutes for Harry Kane and Phil Foden in the 80th minuted. This proved to be a masterclass from England boss. In 90th minute, both subs were able to create magic along with history. Palmer assisted Watkins who took a superb first touch. Watkins’s second touch was shot which resulted in back of the net.
Ollie Watkins receiving praise
Watkins has sent England to the Euro 2024 final. England will face Spain who have been world class under Luis de la Fuente. The Three Lions have made history as this is the first time England reached a final in major tournament on foreign soil. In addition, England are only one win away from winning their first major trophy since 1966.
Watkins’s story has been amazing to witness. The 28 year old was not picked often to represent England. However, in the 2023/24 season Watkins showed the world what he is capable of. The 28 year old scored 27 goals and provided 13 assists across all competitions. 19 out of those 27 goals came in Premier League along with all 13 assists. He has been the most important player for Aston Villa. Unai Emery’s side have earned their spot in Champions League for the 2024/25 season. This made Gareth Southgate pick Watkins and the striker has proved his decision right.
Following their victory against Netherlands, Watkins posted photos on his instagram account with an caption saying ‘show time baby’. His former coach and England legend Steven Gerrard commented red heart and flame emoji to express his appreciation. Later Gary Lineker showered praise on Watkins in The Rest is Football podcast. Firstly Lineker said that the goal scored by Watkins was a magical moment. In addition, Lineker said that Watkins can press dynamically, spin behind and forces defenders to go towards their own goal and thus creates chances for the midfielders.
Watkins talking about his goal
Ollie Watkins said that his goal was unbelievable. He said that he was waiting for this moment from weeks. Later, Watkins said that he received the opportunity and is happy that he grabbed it with both hands.
“I swear on my life, on my kids lives, I said to Cole Palmer ‘We are coming on and you are going to set me up’ and that’s why I was so happy with Coley, I knew as soon as he got the ball he was going to play me” – Ollie Watkins on the conversation he had with Palmer while being introduced as substitutes.
The Euro 2024 final will take place on this sunday between Spain and England on the Olympiastadion Berlin stadium. Spain will look to win their fourth Euro title while England will look to win their maiden Euro title.
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