Arsenal star Bukayo Saka scored a game-tying goal and converted the winning penalty as England defeated Switzerland 5-3 in a shootout to reach the Euro 2024 semifinals.
DÜSSELDORF, Germany - England's Bukayo Saka emerged as the match-winner as the Three Lions overcame a stern test from Switzerland in a thrilling penalty shootout on Saturday to secure a berth in the Euro 2024 semifinals.
Saka, who famously missed the decisive spot-kick in England's Euro 2020 final defeat to Italy, displayed immense composure to slot home the winning penalty. Jordan Pickford, England's goalkeeper, made the lone save from Manuel Akanji to seal the victory.
Earlier in the contest, Saka had provided a spark for England with a magnificent equalizer in the 80th minute, sending the tie into extra time. His goal mirrored the dramatic rescue act England pulled off against Slovakia in the Round of 16 last Sunday.
Switzerland had taken the lead just five minutes before Saka's equalizer, with Breel Embolo finding the back of the net after a precise cross from the right.
Recognizing the need for a change, England manager Gareth Southgate made three substitutions, injecting Cole Palmer, Luke Shaw, and Ezerechi Eze into the game. The gamble paid off as Palmer added vitality, Shaw provided physicality despite a five-month layoff, and Declan Rice set up Saka's equalizer.
Despite employing a more direct approach with a "back three" formation, England struggled to create clear-cut chances. However, they were once again granted a reprieve, advancing to extra time with a semifinal clash against the winner of the Netherlands v. Turkey match looming.
In the tense moments before the penalty shootout, England faced challenges from Xherdan Shaqiri and Zeki Amdouni, testing Pickford's reflexes. Southgate opted to substitute Harry Kane, England's regular penalty taker, due to exhaustion or potential injury. Phil Foden, another reliable penalty expert, also came off.
However, Southgate's decision proved to be the right one. Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Saka, and Toney all successfully converted their spot-kicks. The unlikely hero of the evening, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who had been criticized for his experimental role in midfield in the first two games, sealed the victory with a decisive penalty, sending England into the semifinals with a remarkable finish.
