England reaction LIVE: Latest updates after Three Lions dramatically reach Euro 2024 final

editor

4 months ago

England have reached the Euro 2024 final after Ollie Watkins’ superb last-minute strike secured a 2-1 win over the Netherlands to face Spain on Sunday.

A lively start in Dortmund saw Xavi Simons punish Declan Rice in possession with a stunning strike from range.

But the Three Lions responded, just as they did against Switzerland before still requiring penalties to reach the semi-finals, with Harry Kane fouled by Denzel Dumfries in the penalty area.

The Bayern Munich striker dispatched the controversial spot kick, which Gary Neville labelled “a disgrace” amid intense debate in the ITV studio, after a lengthy VAR review and Phil Foden’s sublime skill almost put Gareth Southgate’s side into the lead.

As extra-time approached, substitute Watkins, on for Kane, smashed a shot home from a narrow angle to send Southgate’s side into Sunday’s final.

Relive all the action and follow reaction from Netherlands vs England below:

Euro 2024: Netherlands v England

England defeated the Netherlands to set up a Euro 2024 final with Spain
ANALYSIS: The Gareth Southgate mantra defining England’s Euro 2024 charge
REPORT: How Ollie Watkins and four touches changed everything for England and set up final chance
ANALYSIS: Thought you knew the England at Euro 2024? Think again
RATINGS: Phil Foden shines and Cole Palmer helps to change the game in Euro 2024 semi-final
King Charles congratulates England on reaching Euro 2024 final

Netherlands 1 – 2 England

Virgil van Dijk to consider club and country future after semi-final defeat

15:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk will consider his future for both club and country over the next few weeks as he processes the disappointment of semi-final elimination at the European Championship on Wednesday, he said.

Van Dijk, who turned 33 on Monday, said he would spend the next weeks figuring out his next career steps after nine years, and 75 caps, in the Netherlands team, plus with a single season left on his contract at Liverpool.

”I haven’t the slightest idea right now. I will think carefully this summer about what I want at club level and as an international player. Then we’ll go for it again, but first recover from this,” Van Dijk told reporters after England beat the Dutch 2-1 to advance to Sunday’s final against Spain.

“After a season like this, where all kinds of things have happened, it gets emotional at the end because you know it’s over,” said Van Dijk, who had felt the Dutch were well placed to win the semi-final at the BVB Stadion.

”Especially in the second half I had the feeling the outcome would fall our way. But (Ollie) Watkins was perhaps given a little too much space and he finished well,” he added of the England substitute’s goal seconds into stoppage time.

”It hurts a lot that we conceded this goal so late in the match and are now empty-handed. You put everything into it, everyone gives everything and if the goal comes like that in the last minute, that just sucks. Yes … sorry.”

Gareth Southgate admits ‘we all want to be loved’ in emotional interview

15:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Gareth Southgate responded to the criticism he has faced as England manager throughout Euro 2024 after the Three Lions dramatically booked their place in the final, admitting that “we all want to be loved”.

Ollie Watkins scored in the 90th minute to secure a 2-1 win against the Netherlands, combining with fellow substitute Cole Palmer before firing in the winner.

The goal – and England’s performance on the night – silenced some of Southgate’s doubters, and the manager emotionally reflected on reaching another major final at full-time.

From Weston-super-Mare to the Euro 2024 final – Ollie Watkins is England’s unlikely hero

14:40 , Richard Jolly

Bobby Charlton, Harry Kane, Ollie Watkins. There is an incongruous presence on the rather short list of players who have scored a semi-final winner for the England men’s football team.

Charlton was England’s record goalscorer and Kane is now. Charlton was a knight of the realm and, if England win Euro 2024, Kane may become one in retirement, too. Then there is Watkins; formerly of Weston-super-Mare, a footballer who was playing in the Conference South at the age Kobbie Mainoo is starring in a European Championships semi-final; who, at the age Jude Bellingham is now, was plying his trade in League Two for Exeter.

From Weston-super-Mare to the Euro 2024 final: Ollie Watkins, England’s unlikely hero

Is Gareth Southgate a substitution genius? Every England sub at Euro 2024 ranked and rated

14:28 , Luke Baker

England are into the Euro 2024 final after Ollie Watkins hammered home an injury-time winner against the Netherlands to send the nation into raptures. Spain now await in the showpiece on Sunday as the Three Lions try to end a 58-year major tournament drought.

Watkins emerged from the bench to score the winner, which was assisted by fellow substitute Cole Palmer. It’s far from the first time at this tournament that Gareth Southgate has altered the outcome of a match with his changes, yet his reputation as a cautious manager who refuses to utilise his subs seems to persist.

During every England game, the cries across pubs, living rooms and social media insist that the England boss make immediate changes by bringing on a very specific player that the armchair manager knows for sure will definitely, 100 per cent win the Three Lions the game. Of course, this is a different player for each armchair manager but the certainty is always there.

Then, the ‘hilarious’ memes of Southgate wearing a life jacket in the shower or a helmet on an exercise bike to signal his excessive caution will be fired around WhatsApp groups, normally accompanied by scathing wit such as “lol, this is so true.”

But is Southgate’s reputation underserved? Here we look at every substitution he has made throughout Euro 2024, rating and ranking each one to find out exactly which changes have been the most impactful:

Is Gareth Southgate a substitution genius? Every England sub at Euro 2024 rated

The Gareth Southgate mantra defining England’s Euro 2024 charge

14:20 , Miguel Delaney in Dortmund

There was a delightedly simple statement from Gareth Southgate, having got over so many complications and questions. “I am a proud Englishman.” That is why he took the job in the first place but it obviously had a greater feeling after delivering the national team to a second final in three years and just a third in history. It also has a greater meaning.

In the elated aftermath of his side’s 2-1 semi-final victory over the Netherlands, Southgate enthused about traditional continental qualities like an England team that “had 60 per cent of the ball against the Netherlands”, to go with so many modern sports science approaches that have fired this team so far. There was also something quintessentially English about this, though.

The Gareth Southgate mantra defining England’s Euro 2024 charge

Phil Foden: Euro 2024 final the biggest game of my career

14:00 , The Independent

Gareth Southgate provides Kieran Trippier injury update after England reach Euro 2024 final

13:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Gareth Southgate has revealed Kieran Trippier was substituted in England’s Euro 2024 semi-final win over the Netherlands as a precaution as he manages a groin injury.

The Newcastle defender was replaced at the break in Dortmund with Luke Shaw coming on.

And after Ollie Watkins’ goal sent the Three Lions into the final on Sunday against Spain, Southgate has provided an update on Trippier’s condition.

Southgate provides Trippier injury update for Euro 2024 final

Kobbie Mainoo determined to cap remarkable rise by making history with England

13:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Kobbie Mainoo is aiming to complete a remarkable rise to the top by helping England put themselves in the history books.

Gareth Southgate’s side face Spain in Sunday’s Euro 2024 final after Ollie Watkins hit a last-gasp winner to down the Netherlands 2-1 in Dortmund.

The semi-final success was the third game in a row in which England scored after the 80-minute mark as they reached a second straight European Championship final.

Kobbie Mainoo determined to cap remarkable rise by making history with England

Thought you had England all figured out? Think again

13:00 , Richard Jolly in Dortmund

And so the ultimate clash of philosophies is off. Spain against England is a final of teams who had seemed to be road-testing theories on the route to Berlin: Spain that it was impossible to win Euro 2024 without playing well in every game, England that it was possible to win it without playing well in any.

Thought you had England all figured out? Think again

The England team have a breathing coach to help calm their nerves – here’s what you are doing wrong

12:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

The players and Gareth Southgate will take the headlines, but England have a secret weapon up their sleeve at Euro 2024. Suzy Cox explores why the hiring of a breathing coach might just have helped England into the final…

Gareth Southgate has hired a breathing coach – here’s what you are doing wrong

Gary Neville slams ‘disgraceful’ England penalty that left ITV pundits divided

12:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Even some English pundits felt that the Netherlands were unlucky – Gary Neville described the decision as “a disgrace” as he clashed with Ian Wright over the incident.

Gary Neville slams ‘disgraceful’ England penalty that left ITV pundits divided

Virgil van Dijk slams referee after controversial penalty

12:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Virgil van Dijk has hit out at referee Felix Zwayer after Netherlands suffered a heartbreaking loss to England in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.

A controversial penalty awarded to the Three Lions in the first half was labelled as a “disgraceful” decision by Gary Neville at half-time.

And Van Dijk was left upset at full-time after Ollie Watkins’ last-minute winner when Zwayer was nowhere to be found following the final whistle.

Virgil Van Dijk slams England v Netherlands referee after ‘dreams shattered’

Dutch newspapers react to ‘scandalous’ penalty as England beat Netherlands in Euro 2024 semi-final

11:40 , Lawrence Ostlere

There was a shade of deja vu on Thursday, the morning after the night before. Three years earlier, England had beaten Denmark at Wembley in a European Championship semi-final with a little help from a dubious penalty, and history rhymed as the Netherlands were left to rue a questionable call in England’s favour.

The line between a legitimate block and a dangerous tackle has always been a little blurred, a grey space usually preserved for defenders to safely fling boots, knowing they will not be punished. But Denzel Dumfries was not afforded any leeway as referee Felix Zwayer awarded a penalty for the defender’s challenge on Harry Kane, after reviewing the incident at the recommendation of his video assistant (VAR).

Kane equalised from the spot and England went on to win 2-1 and book their place in the final of Euro 2024.

Dutch newspapers were in no doubt about the decision:

Dutch newspapers react to ‘scandalous’ penalty as England win Euro 2024 semi-final

Previous meetings between England and Spain ahead of Euro 2024 final

11:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

England will meet Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday in Berlin following their dramatic 2-1 victory over Netherlands.

Ollie Watkins scored a dramatic last-gasp winner in Dortmund on Wednesday to send England’s men to a first major final on foreign soil.

Here, the PA news agency looks back at previous meetings between Sunday’s European Championship finalists.

Previous meetings between England and Spain ahead of Euro 2024 final

David Beckham and Prince William lead celebrity reaction to England Euro 2024 semi final win

11:00 , Lydia Spencer-Elliott

Celebrities have been quick to jump on social media and share their celebrations over England dramatically reaching the Euro 2024 final after Ollie Watkins’ 90th minute goal saw The Three Lions secure a 2-1 win over the Netherlands to face Spain on Sunday.

A lively start in Dortmund saw Xavi Simons punish Declan Rice in possession with a stunning strike from range. But England responded, with Harry Kane fouled by Denzel Dumfries in the penalty area. As extra-time approached, substitute Watkins, on for Kane, smashed a shot home from a narrow angle to send Southgate’s side into Sunday’s final.

Former England captain David Beckham shared his admiration for The Three Lions on Instagram Stories, writing: “Wow, team England.” The much-loved midfielder even gave a special shout out to Watkins, who scored England’s winning goal after just minutes on the pitch.

“That’s why they call it a TEAM,” Beckham said. “What a moment. Well done Ollie.”

David Beckham and Prince William lead celebrity reactions to England semi final win

King Charles congratulates England on reaching Euro 2024 final

10:50 , Luke Baker

The King has congratulated the England men’s football team on reaching the final of Euro 2024 – but has urged them to avoid more last-minute drama.

In a message to Gareth Southgate’s side following the Three Lions’ 2-1 win against the Netherlands, Charles sent the players the royal family’s “very best wishes” and “warmest congratulations”.

But the King quipped about the recent drama endured by England fans, including a last-gasp equaliser in the second round against Slovakia and a penalty triumph against Switzerland in the quarter-final, asking them to watch out for the nation’s blood pressure in the final clash with Spain.

King congratulates England on reaching Euro 2024 final

Ollie Watkins embraced by family and friends after scoring England’s late winner

10:40 , The Independent

What a night for Ollie Watkins, a striker who took the long route to the top via Exeter City, Weston-super-Mare and Brentford.

Ollie Watkins reveals prediction with Cole Palmer after firing England into Euro 2024 final

10:20 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Ollie Watkins “manifested” firing England into the Euro 2024 final after telling fellow super-sub Cole Palmer that they would combine to create a stunning 91st minute winner against the Netherlands.

Watkins and Palmer were sent on by manager Gareth Southgate in a bold double change, replacing Harry Kane and Phil Foden with extra time looming against the Dutch in Dortmund.

Watkins reveals prediction with Palmer after firing England into final

Ronald Koeman reacts after ‘difficult to accept’ last-minute Ollie Watkins semi-final winner

10:00 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman felt England were wrongly awarded a penalty in their Euro 2024 semi-final defeat – but says the Three Lions are capable of going on to beat Spain in the final on Sunday.

An early strike from Xavi Simons put the Oranje in the driving seat but a fine response from Gareth Southgate’s team saw Harry Kane win and score a penalty in a dominant rest of the first half.

After the Dutch appeared to be in the ascendency once more after the break, England’s subs proved the difference as Ollie Watkins struck in the final moments to send them through to the showpiece game in Berlin.

Koeman reacts after ‘difficult to accept’ last-minute Watkins winner

Luke Shaw reacts to England reaching the final

09:40 , Harry Latham-Coyle

Luke Shaw spoke to Uefa after the game, saying:

“It’s hard to put it into words to be honest. So, so happy for Ollie. I said the other day the people who haven’t played many minutes, you never know when your chance will come and you have to be ready. He had an opportunity to come on tonight and took it.

“I’m very happy and privileged to be back out there on the pitch and getting to another Euros final.

“All that matters now is the one more game and we have to do everything to bring that trophy home.”

The Gareth Southgate mantra defining England’s Euro 2024 charge

09:20 , Luke Baker

When foreign players and managers have talked about the Premier League and the divisions below it, they have often been struck by the ferocity of the competitiveness – the willingness to keep going; a perseverance. That has been marketed in the modern world as “anyone can beat anyone” but has referred to the honest will of English sides. This wasn’t always complimentary, either. It was occasionally spoken of as if there was a naivety to it. This was seen as blustering stars wastefully chasing lost causes, as a force that expended energy.

By the same token, there has always been a respect for how English sides have kept going until the end. This is a trait that Southgate and his staff have now properly focused and honed, through strategy and science. It has also meant that a phrase to sum up England’s campaign – and is starting to be said around the camp – is that it isn’t how you start, it’s how you finish.

Read Chief Football Writer Miguel Delaney’s full piece:

The Gareth Southgate mantra defining England’s Euro 2024 charge

When is the Euro 2024 final and who do England play?

09:00 , Luke Baker

England are through to a second consecutive European Championship final after beating the Netherlands in Dortmund.

Gareth Southgate’s side suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Italy in the final of Euro 2020 three years ago, losing on penalties at Wembley.

But the Three Lions will have the chance to win their first major men’s international tournament in 57 years in the Euro 2024 final.

Despite poor performances in the group stages, England have beaten Slovakia, Switzerland and Netherlands in the knockouts.

Ollie Watkins was the star in the semi-finals. After replacing captain Harry Kane, the striker fired England into the final in the 91st minute.

When is the Euro 2024 final and who do England play?

Ollie Watkins: England hero

08:40 , Luke Baker

Fair to say Ollie Watkins enjoyed that last night…

Gareth Southgate turns attention to the final

08:20 , Luke Baker

After the celebrations of last night, Gareth Southgate has turned his attention to Sunday’s final against Spain. And he wants to win…

“I took the job to try and improve English football and we’re now in a second final,” Southgate said. “The last one was the first in 50 years. We’re now in the first that isn’t played on our shores.

“I think we’ve got a team that will be together for quite a while, so it’s not as though this is a team that’s at the end of a cycle. We’re giving people some amazing nights. I think we’ve given our supporters some of the best nights over the last 50 years, so I’m hugely proud of that.

“I’m delighted if everybody at home is feeling the way we are and the way the supporters in the stadium are feeling. But from our point of view, we’re not finished. We’ve got the greatest possible test to prepare for and we came here to try and win the tournament, and that’s still our aim.”

The Killers pause gig to show England Euros win… before belting out ‘Mr Brightside’

08:00 , Luke Baker

The Killers paused their London gig to screen the final seconds of England’s dramatic Euro 2024 semi-final – before launching straight into “Mr. Brightside” on the final whistle.

Super sub Ollie Watkins scored in the 90th minute to secure a 2-1 win against the Netherlands and send Gareth Southgate’s team into Sunday’s final against Spain.

The final whistle was met with scenes of jubilation across the nation – including at the O2 in London as The Killers performed.

Footage shared by Nikki Wicks on social media shows the moment the win was confirmed, with the band launching straight into their iconic hit.

How Ollie Watkins and four touches changed everything for England to set up final chance

07:42 , Luke Baker

It’s not how you start, it’s how you finish. And that was some way to send England to the Euro 2024 final in Berlin on Sunday. In a tournament where every Gareth Southgate decision has been questioned and criticised, it is one of his decisive substitutions that has returned England back to European football’s greatest stage, and a chance of redemption for Euro 2020. Many might say it was the obvious move to take off Harry Kane but it still wasn’t as clear as Ollie Watkins’s sublime strike. Four touches were enough, maybe yet to rectify 58 years.

This is something that shouldn’t be overlooked in all of the undercurrents that will swirl around a gruelling 2-1 victory over the Netherlands.

England are back in a major final, their second in three years, and just the third in history. It is the sort of record this football culture has long desired but now there is the demand for more.

Read Miguel Delaney’s full report from the game:

How Ollie Watkins and four touches changed everything for England

Thought you knew the England at Euro 2024? Think again

07:40 , Luke Baker

Until, as though scarred by the elimination of their soulmates from France, England delivered something that had come to feel out of character: compelling, attacking football. Sluggishness was replaced by speed, disjointedness by moments that demonstrated they could be devastating.

Five forgettable games, interspersed only with moments, gave way to a seminal semi-final. After plodding their way around Germany, cocooned in Blankenhain while most of the teams who provided excitement went out, England belatedly stepped up. They head to Berlin buoyed by a buccaneering first half, a brilliant late winner and a glimpse of the team many had hoped they would be.

Thought you had England all figured out? Think again

Harry Kane responds to England penalty debate after reaching Euro 2024 final

06:30 , Chris Stevenson

Harry Kane joked “my foot’s hanging off!” as he responded to claims that England were “fortunate” to receive a first-half penalty as they trailed the Netherlands before coming back to book a place in the Euro 2024 final.

Gareth Southgate’s side had trailed to Xavi Simons’ stunning strike inside seven minutes in Dortmund before England were awarded a penalty that divided the pundits at half-time.

Kane hit a rising strike over the crossbar from inside the penalty area but as the England captain stayed down holding his foot, replays showed he was caught by Netherlands defender Denzel Dumfries.

Harry Kane responds to England penalty debate after reaching Euro 2024 final

England v Netherlands player ratings: Cole Palmer helps to change the game in Euro 2024 semi-final

06:00 , Mike Jones

England reached the final of Euro 2024 with a late, late victory over Netherlands on Wednesday, setting up a clash with Spain.

After falling behind to an early Xavi Simons goal – a wonderful strike after Declan Rice was dispossessed – England restored parity with a penalty.

It was a controversial call, but Harry Kane won the spot-kick, before converting with an accurate finish.

A nervy, back-and-forth possession game ensued, before England substitutes Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins combined for the winner in the 91st minute, with the latter scoring from a tight angle.

But how did each player perform? Here are The Independent’s player ratings:

England v Netherlands player ratings: Cole Palmer helps to change the game

Virgil van Dijk slams England v Netherlands referee after ‘dreams shattered’

05:00 , Mike Jones

Virgil van Dijk has hit out at referee Felix Zwayer after Netherlands suffered a heartbreaking loss to England in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.

A controversial penalty awarded to the Three Lions in the first half was labelled as a “disgraceful” decision by Gary Neville at half-time.

And Van Dijk was left upset at full-time after Ollie Watkins’ last-minute winner when Zwayer was nowhere to be found following the final whistle.

Virgil Van Dijk slams England v Netherlands referee after ‘dreams shattered’

Gary Neville slams ‘disgraceful’ England penalty that left ITV pundits divided

04:00 , Mike Jones

Gary Neville branded Harry Kane’s penalty against the Netherlands a “disgrace” as England were handed a lifeline in their Euro 2024 semi-final.

England will play Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday after Ollie Watkins struck a stunning 91st-minute winner against the Dutch to secure a 2-1 win.

Gareth Southgate’s side had trailed to Xavi Simons’ stunning strike inside seven \minutes in Dortmund before England were awarded a penalty that divided the pundits at half-time.

Gary Neville slams ‘disgraceful’ England penalty that left ITV pundits divided

Ollie Watkins reveals prediction with Cole Palmer after firing England into Euro 2024 final

03:00 , Mike Jones

Ollie Watkins revealed he made a prediction to Cole Palmer that they would fire England into the Euro 2024 final as the substitutes combined to create a stunning 91st minute winner against the Netherlands.

Watkins and Palmer were sent on by manager Gareth Southgate in a bold double-change, replacing Harry Kane and Phil Foden with extra time looming against the Dutch in Dortmund.

And Southgate’s gamble paid off as Palmer set up Watkins, with the Aston Villa striker sending England through with a stunning touch and finish into the corner.

Watkins reveals prediction with Palmer after firing England into final

Ronald Koeman reacts after ‘difficult to accept’ last-minute Ollie Watkins semi-final winner

02:00 , Mike Jones

An early strike from Xavi Simons put the Oranje in the driving seat but a fine response from Gareth Southgate’s team saw Harry Kane win and score a penalty in a dominant rest of the first half.

Koeman reacts after ‘difficult to accept’ last-minute Watkins winner

Gareth Southgate provides Kieran Trippier injury update after England reach Euro 2024 final

01:00 , Mike Jones

Gareth Southgate has revealed Kieran Trippier was substituted in England’s Euro 2024 semi-final win over the Netherlands as a precaution as he manages a groin injury.

The Newcastle defender was replaced at the break in Dortmund with Luke Shaw coming on.

And after Ollie Watkins’ goal sent the Three Lions into the final on Sunday against Spain, Southgate has provided an update on Trippier’s condition.

Southgate provides Trippier injury update for Euro 2024 final

England defender Luke Shaw, speaking to Uefa:

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:54 , Mike Jones

“I’m very happy and privileged to be back out there on the pitch and getting to another Euros final.

“All that matters now is the one more game and we have to do everything to bring that trophy home.”

Netherlands captain Virgil van Dijk, speaking to BBC Sport:

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:48 , Mike Jones

“I think the penalty moment is a big moment, England had some confidence out of it. Second half we could have scored to make it 2-1. To concede in extra time is tough. I think so many decisions didn’t go our way but I don’t want to speak about the referee today.

“Supporters in general are very important, they need to back us and be with us regardless. We’ve seen them in high numbers and hopefully they continue to do so.

“I don’t think I should comment on that [penalty decision]. I’m very disappointed that we didn’t achieve our dreams tonight. I need a good break because this season has been very tough for many different reasons and that’s life sometimes but it’s tough.”

‘One more, let’s do it’

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:42 , Mike Jones

The Killers pause gig to show England Euros win… before belting out ‘Mr Brightside’

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:36 , Mike Jones

The Killers paused their London gig to screen the final seconds of England’s dramatic Euro 2024 semi-final – before launching straight into “Mr. Brightside” on the final whistle.

Super sub Ollie Watkins scored in the 90th minute to secure a 2-1 win against the Netherlands and send Gareth Southgate’s team into Sunday’s final against Spain.

The final whistle was met with scenes of jubilation across the nation – including at the O2 in London as The Killers performed.

Footage shared by Nikki Wicks on social media shows the moment the win was confirmed, with the band launching straight into their iconic hit.

Jude Bellingham believes England’s character built by early Euro 2024 criticism

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:30 , Mike Jones

Jude Bellingham sealed a glorious return to Dortmund and insisted that England’s ability to surge through to the Euro 2024 final had been forged through their setbacks in the early stages of the tournament.

The 21-year-old spent three years with Borussia Dortmund in the Bundesliga before moving on to join Real Madrid in a big money deal last year.

And the midfielder believes the criticism they faced in the group phase then in the wake of a fortunate escape against Slovakia in the last 16 has left them better-equipped to cope at the business-end of the tournament.

Jude Bellingham believes England’s character built by early Euro 2024 criticism

Kobbie Mainoo speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live:

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:24 , Mike Jones

“It is in indescribable feeling, we are all buzzing! It has been such a journey and we have built on old performances, the only way is up – time to put us in history.

“In the first half it was clicking with the whole team. We felt like we had the game under control in the middle of the park.

“The second half we had to grind it out, it was tough. The whole squad was a help, the impact from Ollie [Watkins] – what a finish! The time was coming for him, I could feel it.

“It has happened quick and now we are in a European Championship final – buzzing. They [Spain] are a good squad, but will be ready for that.”

Ian Wright hails Ollie Watkins’ late winner as ‘unbelievable moment’ for England

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:18 , Mike Jones

Former England striker Ian Wright hailed match-winner Ollie Watkins after the substitute’s dramatic late goal secured a place in the Euro 2024 final.

Aston Villa forward Watkins, introduced in the closing stages, struck in the last minute as England snatched a last-gasp 2-1 victory over the Netherlands in their semi-final in Dortmund.

Gareth Southgate’s side will now play Spain in Sunday’s final in Berlin bidding to go one better than their runners-up finish three years ago.

Ian Wright hails Ollie Watkins’ late winner as ‘unbelievable moment’ for England

England defeat the Netherlands and set up Euro 2024 final with Spain

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:12 , Mike Jones

Gareth Southgate on celebrating with the fans after criticism earlier in the tournament:

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:06 , Mike Jones

“We all want to be loved, right? When you are doing something for your country and you are a proud Englishman and when you don’t feel that back and get all the criticism it is hard.

“To be able to celebrate a second final is very special. The travelling fans have been amazing. To be able to give them nights like this, and I think we have given them a few over the last six years, it means a lot.

“If I hadn’t been on the grass I’d have been celebrating and watching like they were. We are kindred spirits in many ways but I am the one who has to pick the team.

“To give them a night like tonight is very special.”

Southgate on England’s supporters:

Thursday 11 July 2024 00:00 , Mike Jones

“I hope they are enjoying a few beers! We have had some incredible nights the last seven or eight years. These games have been dramatic because the goals have come so late.

“The only reason I took the job on was to try and bring success to the nation and improve English football. I am immensely proud to take this team to a final overseas.

“It will be a huge task but we are still here and fighting.”

Southgate on what it shows about his side to come from behind again:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:57 , Mike Jones

“Character. I think definitely tonight we did not deserve to be behind. It was a moment. We started the game really well. It was a very complicated game because they kept changing the way they were building up, we changed the way we were defending. In the end players made so many good decisions on the field.

“I was really pleased with the quality of our play. I’d imagine it was a long time since England had 60% possession against a team like the Netherlands. It is the modern way and shows the resilience of the group. Ollie Watkins has trained every day and been ready to play, as the whole group has been.

“There’s a lot of new players in the group, half have not been to a tournament but they have bonded so well, got each other’s back and tonight was a good example of that.”

FT England 2-1 Netherlands

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:54 , Mike Jones

Ollie Watkins is just the second player to score a major tournament (World Cup/Euros) goal for England while playing his club football for Aston Villa, after David Platt at the 1990 World Cup.

Prime Minister congratulates England

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:51 , Mike Jones

Prime Minister Keir Starmer, who is in the US at a NATO summit, has congratulated England on reaching the Euro 2024 final.

What a game @England and what a winner.

Berlin here we come!

— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) July 10, 2024

Gareth Southgate responds to critics of his England substitutions after win against Netherlands

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:48 , Mike Jones

Gareth Southgate has assured England fans that his players have bought into his ideology when it comes to substitutes, after the Three Lions reached the final of Euro 2024.

England have failed to impress in most of their games in Germany, and Southgate has also been criticised for his choice and timing of substitutes. However, England reached a new level to beat Netherlands 2-1 in the semi-finals on Wednesday, with Southgate’s changes proving pivotal.

Gareth Southgate responds to critics of his England subs after Ollie Watkins winner

Virgil van Dijk slams England v Netherlands referee after ‘dreams shattered’

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:45 , Mike Jones

Virgil van Dijk has hit out at referee Felix Zwayer after Netherlands suffered a heartbreaking loss to England in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.

A controversial penalty awarded to the Three Lions in the first half was labelled as a “disgraceful” decision by Gary Neville at half-time.

And Van Dijk was left upset at full-time after Ollie Watkins’ last-minute winner when Zwayer was nowhere to be found following the final whistle.

Virgil Van Dijk slams England v Netherlands referee after ‘dreams shattered’

England boss Gareth Southgate, speaking to ITV Sport:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:42 , Mike Jones

“It has to be the best. It’s another landmark but we played well throughout the game. It was complicated. They kept changing so we had to change. It was so special at the end.

“Sometimes it can work that way [substitutions paying off]. The most important thing is all of the squad can come into the game. Their attitudes have been exemplary and I’m so happy for Ollie.

“Harry got that knock in the first half. Ollie can press well and runs in behind. We had a goal cleared off the line and we hit the woodwork. I think we deserved to win tonight.

“That’s as well as he’s played in an England shirt and he had a huge influence on the game. If you look at the numbers [of fans] it was like we were playing away but it wasn’t like that with the noise.”

ITV commentator Sam Matterface loses voice as England reach Euro 2024 final

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:39 , Mike Jones

ITV commentator Sam Matterface lost his voice as he detailed the moment England reached the Euro 2024 final.

Super sub Ollie Watkins netted in the 90th minute to secure a dramatic 2-1 win over the Netherlands on Wednesday night (10 July) and send Gareth Southgate’s team to Sunday’s showpiece event against Spain.

As the referee blew the final whistle moments later, Matterface’s voice cracked as he suggested the Three Lions are now just “one step from immortality”.

ITV pundits Gary Neville and Ian Wright also went crazy as they watched the winning goal from their studio in Berlin.

Gary Neville and Ian Wright share hug as ITV pundits celebrate England winner

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:36 , Mike Jones

ITV pundits Gary Neville and Ian Wright shared a hug as they celebrated the last-minute winner that sent England into the Euro 2024 final.

Super sub Ollie Watkins netted in the 90th minute to secure a 2-1 win over the Netherlands.

The goal sparked scenes of jubilation inside Westfalenstadion, with other subs seen spilling onto the pitch to celebrate.

ITV pundits also went crazy as they watched the goal from their studio in Berlin.

“Pundit limbs,” the ITV Football social media account wrote, sharing an amusing video of Neville and Wright celebrating while Roy Keane watched on.

England fans erupt as last-minute winner sends Three Lions to Euro 2024 final

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:33 , Mike Jones

England fans erupted as Ollie Watkins scored a last-minute winner to send the Three Lions to the Euro 2024 final.

Gareth Southgate’s super sub netted in the 90th minute to secure a 2-1 win over the Netherlands. The goal sparked scenes of jubilation inside Westfalenstadion, with other subs seen spilling onto the pitch to celebrate.

Back home fans watching the game in a Boxpark venue in London went absolutely crazy as Watkins scored the winner. As has become tradition, beers went flying into the air as supporters jumped and danced around, some even taking their tops off.

Gareth Southgate provides Kieran Trippier injury update after England reach Euro 2024 final

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:32 , Mike Jones

Gareth Southgate has revealed Kieran Trippier was substituted in England’s Euro 2024 semi-final win over the Netherlands as a precaution as he manages a groin injury.

The Newcastle defender was replaced at the break in Dortmund with Luke Shaw coming on.

And after Ollie Watkins’ goal sent the Three Lions into the final on Sunday against Spain, Southgate has provided an update on Trippier’s condition.

Southgate provides Trippier injury update for Euro 2024 final

Ronald Koeman reacts after ‘difficult to accept’ last-minute Ollie Watkins semi-final winner

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:31 , Mike Jones

An early strike from Xavi Simons put the Oranje in the driving seat but a fine response from Gareth Southgate’s team saw Harry Kane win and score a penalty in a dominant rest of the first half.

Koeman reacts after ‘difficult to accept’ last-minute Watkins winner

Lamine Yamal is a complete talent and ready to make Lionel Messi’s shirt his own

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:30 , Mike Jones

If Lamine Yamal already stands out for his speed, consider the evolution of his career. It was as recently as May 2022 when word started to get around the wider game that Barcelona had another one.

When one of the scouts that discovered Andres Iniesta was asked by senior football figures about whispers that the club had “one very special player”, the response was instantaneous. “Lamine Yamal.” There usually tends to be a relatively long build-up from that, as hype builds for a few seasons. Not here.

A year after that, when just 15, he was scoring a spectacular curling long-range goal against France in the under-17 European Championships semi-final. A year after that, which was Tuesday night, he was scoring an almost identical goal in the actual European Championships semi-final against a France team filled with stars.

Lamine Yamal is a complete talent and ready to make Lionel Messi’s shirt his own

Netherlands boss Ronald Koeman, speaking to ITV Sport:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:27 , Mike Jones

“First half yes, second half not. It was more 50/50. They created problems in our midfield in the first half. We didn’t control how they play between the line with Foden and Bellingham.

“Our feeling was maybe in the last 20 minutes, we are more fresh. They scored a great goal in the final minute and that is football. Maybe we deserved an extra-time but it’s like that and we can be proud about our national team. We had a great tournament.”

Gareth Southgate on his substitutions:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:24 , Mike Jones

“We were happy with how Phil [Foden] and Harry [Kane] were playing. We have got a good bench, we had freshness and we know that Ollie can make those runs down the side.

“This is what we came here to do and we have been building for two years. We have got to enjoy tonight, but equally it is such a quick turn around and we have a day less than the team who have been the best the tournament.”

England manager Gareth Southgate, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:21 , Mike Jones

“Very special night and hopefully very special for everyone at home. I thought our performance was really good.

“You knew with the Netherlands they have more quality so they can punish you like they did, but there’s more opportunity to play. Our midfield players, Foden especially, were key finding space and they had to keep changing what they were doing.

“Bukayo, did an immense job. He started as a wing-back and he defended as a winger at times – it was one of those nights that everyone had to be flexible.”

When is the Euro 2024 final and who do England play?

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:18 , Mike Jones

England are through to a second consecutive European Championship final after beating the Netherlands in Dortmund.

Gareth Southgate’s side suffered a heartbreaking defeat to Italy in the final of Euro 2020 three years ago, losing on penalties at Wembley.

But the Three Lions will have the chance to win their first major men’s international tournament in 57 years in the Euro 2024 final.

Despite poor performances in the group stages, England have beaten Slovakia, Switzerland and Netherlands in the knockouts.

When is the Euro 2024 final and who do England play?

England forward Jude Bellingham, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:15 , Mike Jones

“We told you last time we live to fight another day. Another late goal, but it would be nice to score first and have that peace of mind.

“When they scored the first goal I didn’t think we were playing badly, it was a good finish to be fair.

“I am really proud of the boys. The reaction, attitude and mentality. Quality is one thing, but those characteristics you cannot learn in training – you get it from experience and each other.

“Now it is one more game. We are tired, it has been a long season, but this is one last push for our country and for history.”

King congratulates England on reaching Euro 2024 final

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:12 , Mike Jones

The King has congratulated the England men’s football team on reaching the final of Euro 2024 – but has urged them to avoid more last-minute drama.

King congratulates England on reaching Euro 2024 final

Virgil van Dijk reacting to Netherlands’ Euro 2024 exit:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:09 , Mike Jones

“Obviously throughout the whole tournament we’ve seen so many sides to our team. Good sides in the attacking and defensive form, but also a bad side against Austria, today was a good game, for many reasons, with and without the ball, an intense game.

“They created good moments, so did we. To concede in the last minute, it’s difficult to accept. Especially when it’s a knockout semi-final and it shattered our dreams.

“I don’t know what to say, I don’t know if I should say something about this, I said it to our Dutch media, it says it all that the referee went in quite quickly after the game, had no time to shake his hand. The game is done and we lost, it’s hard to take.

“Certain moments, it’s obvious it should have gone our way. It didn’t. Whatever the outcome, it’s tough, it’s difficult to take. We had a big dream, we thought we could achieve that here.

“I don’t know, they keep changing certain things that could have a big impact. Let them come to you and explain certain moments, like we have to do, that might be something. I shouldn’t speak about others, we have to look at ourselves.”

Ollie Watkins speaking in the post match press conference:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:06 , Mike Jones

“I didn’t dream about that to be honest. I can’t lie and say I did, scoring for England is amazing but I didn’t think I’d do it in a tournament like that.

“When I was on the bench I said to Dean Henderson I can make a difference today and need to get on. I took my chance, scored it and now are in the final. One last game.

“Spain are a great footballing team. So many good players, a lot of squad depth like ourselves, experience.

“It is the most important game of our lives. We will try to enjoy tonight and then focus on Spain.”

Ollie Watkins speaking in the post match press conference:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:03 , Mike Jones

“Lost for words really. When you score there are emotions that come through your body but this is just a different feeling. It was in slow motion when I ran to celebrate with the boys.

“I didn’t want to get off the pitch at the end, I wanted to soak it all in as it doesn’t happen often.

“The ball came into me, hold up is not the strongest side of my game but the goal was my bread and butter. I said to Cole Palmer we were both going to go on the pitch and he would set me up and it happened.

“You don’t get that opportunity very often and I had to be greedy and take the shot. I don’t think I have hit the ball so sweet like that before.”

Ollie Watkins speaking in the post match press conference:

Wednesday 10 July 2024 23:00 , Mike Jones

“I never thought I’d be playing in the Euros for England. You can dream but I am a realist, I just take by day and one step at a time. I was just focused on getting back into the first team at Exeter.

“I have put a lot of work to get to this point, not just this season. I will enjoy every moment.

“Recently I have obviously got a bit frustrated. I don’t like to be on the bench, I have had the best season of my career. A few friends messaged me and said be patient and the amount of people who messaged me tonight saying I would score when I come on was ridiculous.

“Hopefully they can do the same for the final or give me the lottery numbers.”

FT England 2-1 Netherlands

Wednesday 10 July 2024 22:57 , Mike Jones

Jude Bellingham spoke about England’s victory, Watkins’ goal and the run to the final telling ITV:

“Ollie came on and won it. We’re really grateful because I don’t know if I had another half an hour in me. I’m so happy for him. He came on and took his opportunity. I couldn’t be prouder. The whole team are buzzing for him. He’s the hero and he saved us.

“In these games, we come together like no other team. We’ve delivered again. These moments are great. They bring us together as a team and a family. It’s about bringing that into the final.

“Spain have looked amazing. They’ve been really good but it’s a one-off game and anything can happen. I’m sure we’ll sit down, look at them and do the right analysis. It’ll be interesting to go toe-to-toe with them.”

FT England 2-1 Netherlands

Wednesday 10 July 2024 22:54 , Mike Jones

England have knocked out Netherlands, ranked 7th in the Fifa rankings – the highest ranked nation they have eliminated from a World Cup/Euro knockout tie since Spain in the Euro 1996 quarter-final (6th).

England subs spill onto pitch as Ollie Watkins scores last-minute winner in Euro 2024 semi-final

Wednesday 10 July 2024 22:51 , Mike Jones

Ollie Watkins scored a stunning last-minute winner to send England to the Euro 2024 final, sparking scenes of jubilation on the touchline.

England substitutes were seen spilling onto the pitch moments after super sub Watkins fired the ball into the back of the Netherlands net in the 90th minute to secure a 2-1 win.

Gareth Southgate’s side went behind early in the game, when Xavi Simons beat Jordan Pickford from outside the box after just seven minutes.

Harry Kane equalised from the penalty spot shortly after and with the match heading to extra-time, Watkins popped up in the final moments to win it.

FT England 2-1 Netherlands

Wednesday 10 July 2024 22:48 , Mike Jones

The night Phil Foden finally joined the Euro 2024 party and gave England a gameplan for the final

Wednesday 10 July 2024 22:45 , Mike Jones

It was the performance England had been waiting for, but for Phil Foden, it was perhaps the opponent he had needed.

For 45 minutes, one of the Premier League’s finest and the national squad’s most capable looked every inch the star he has become: a player as adept at finding space as exploiting it, as consistent in his decision-making as in his execution.

After five arguably false starts, sporadically showing his gifted touch but too often littered with horizontal unimagination, Foden became playmaker, goal threat and counter-attacking fulcrum all at once against Netherlands.

Phil Foden finally joined the party and gave England a gameplan for the final

Ollie Watkins reveals prediction with Cole Palmer after firing England into Euro 2024 final

Wednesday 10 July 2024 22:42 , Mike Jones

Watkins and Palmer were sent on by manager Gareth Southgate in a bold double-change, replacing Harry Kane and Phil Foden with extra time looming against the Dutch in Dortmund.

And Southgate’s gamble paid off as Palmer set up Watkins, with the Aston Villa striker sending England through with a stunning touch and finish into the corner.

Watkins reveals prediction with Palmer after firing England into final

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