Substitute Ollie Watkins scored a dramatic injury-time winner as England defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in the Euro 2024 semi-final on Wednesday. The Three Lions will now face Spain in Sunday's final, seeking to avenge their penalty shootout defeat to Italy three years ago.
England's remarkable run at Euro 2024 continued on Wednesday as they reached the final for the second time in a row, defeating the Netherlands 2-1 in a thrilling semi-final encounter. Super substitute Ollie Watkins emerged as the hero, scoring a sensational winner in injury time to send England into ecstasy.
Watkins Strikes Late to Fire England into Euro 2024 Final
After the Netherlands had taken an early lead through Xavi Simons, England showed their resilience to come back and equalize from the penalty spot, with Harry Kane converting after a reckless challenge from Denzel Dumfries. Gareth Southgate's men played with renewed energy and purpose, with Phil Foden and Kane both going close to putting them ahead.
The Dutch struggled to maintain possession and were dealt a blow when Memphis Depay was forced off injured. However, they remained dangerous and hit the woodwork through Dumfries. Both teams made changes at half-time, but the second half was less fluid. England seemed to revert to their earlier stagnation, and clear-cut chances were scarce.
Just when it seemed the game was destined for extra time, Watkins stepped up with a moment of magic. The Aston Villa striker, who had only come on as a substitute for Kane, collected a pass from fellow substitute Cole Palmer and sent a thunderbolt into the Dutch net.
The stadium erupted in celebration as Watkins' goal secured England's place in the final. It was a deserved victory for Southgate's men, who have shown great character and determination throughout the tournament. They will now face Spain in the final, hoping to atone for their defeat on penalties to Italy three years ago.
Watkins' winner was a fitting end to a pulsating encounter. It was a moment of sheer brilliance from the 26-year-old, who had been used sparingly in the tournament. His goal sent shockwaves through the Netherlands team and their supporters, who had been dreaming of a place in the final.
England's victory is a testament to the depth and quality of their squad. They have overcome adversity and setbacks throughout the tournament, and they will now go into the final as slight favorites against Spain. However, anything can happen in a one-off game, and England will need to be at their best to lift the trophy for the first time since 1966.
