Euro 2024: England Overcomes Switzerland, Faces Netherlands in Semis
England advances to the Euro 2024 semi-finals after a thrilling penalty shootout win over Switzerland, despite a lackluster performance. Bukayo Saka shines with a stunning equalizer, and Trent Alexander-Arnold scores the winning penalty.
England secured a spot in the Euro 2024 semi-finals after defeating Switzerland in a penalty shootout, following a 1-1 draw in Dusseldorf. This marks the second time England has avoided elimination in the tournament, after Jude Bellingham's late equalizer against Slovakia in the round of 16.
Switzerland took the lead early on through Breel Embolo, but Bukayo Saka equalized with a stunning low shot just five minutes later. Despite extra time, neither team could find a winner, leading to a penalty shootout. Jordan Pickford saved Manuel Akanji's opening penalty, and England went on to win through two spot-kicks.
Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Saka, and Ivan Toney all scored their penalties, before Trent Alexander-Arnold sealed the win with the final spot-kick. England will now face the Netherlands in the semi-finals on Wednesday at 20:00 BST in Dortmund.
Despite a lackluster performance for much of the game, England showed their resilience and ability to overcome adversity once again. Gareth Southgate's side has made it to the semi-finals, but their performances in Germany have been far from convincing.
Alexander-Arnold's winning penalty was a poignant moment, given he was benched from the starting lineup after the second match against Denmark. England's new three-at-the-back formation looked more comfortable for the players, but lacked the same threat as their earlier lineup against Switzerland.
Saka's goal was a fitting tribute to his man-of-the-match performance, and Ezri Konsa played flawlessly in defense. However, Southgate needs to address why his team seems so weak for long periods before their semi-final match.
For now, England can celebrate making it to the semi-finals, despite their tense performance. Southgate has guided them to the final four of a major tournament once again.
Southgate felt comfortable enough to substitute captain Harry Kane with 11 minutes remaining in extra time, given his team's strong penalty takers. Palmer, Bellingham, Saka, and Toney all scored their penalties, setting up Alexander-Arnold's winning finish.
Saka saw this as a chance for redemption, after missing the decisive penalty in the European Championship final against Italy at Wembley three years prior. Having such experts available will give Southgate confidence in these high-pressure situations.
Southgate took England captain Kane off in extra time, capping a poor personal match. Kane did not resemble his usual self, looking immobile for much of the game and struggling to make an impact. Despite his efforts, Kane seemed jaded and was eventually substituted after a heavy fall in the technical area.
While there was no doubting Kane's effort, Southgate will still rely on him for the semi-final.
Bukayo Saka was named man of the match for his outstanding performance.
Jordan Pickford's water bottle was engraved with the names of Switzerland's penalty takers during Euro 2024 knockout stage, revealing a clever tactic employed by the England goalkeeper in the high-stakes match.
No comments:
Leave comment here