England manager Gareth Southgate has praised his team’s resilience and tactical flexibility following their dramatic 2-1 victory over the Netherlands, which secured a place in the Euro 2024 final against Spain.
A last-minute strike from substitute Ollie Watkins was the decisive moment in a thrilling semifinal clash in Dortmund.
Speaking to ITV Sport after the match, Southgate described the victory as one of the highlights of his managerial career.
“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,” he said.
England faced an early setback when Xavi Simons opened the scoring for the Netherlands with a powerful strike.
However, the team showed their character by dominating the first half, with Phil Foden hitting the post and drawing a fine save from Dutch keeper Bart Verbruggen. England equalized through a contentious penalty converted by captain Harry Kane, setting the stage for a tense second half.
The Netherlands gained control after the break, putting England under significant pressure. Key interventions from goalkeeper Jordan Pickford were crucial in keeping the score level.
Southgate wins with subs again
As the game seemed destined for extra time, Southgate made a crucial substitution, bringing on Ollie Watkins for Kane. Watkins rewarded the manager’s faith with a brilliant late goal, sending England into their second successive European Championship final.
Reflecting on the impact of his substitutions, Southgate said, “Sometimes it can work that way. 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.”
As England prepares to face Spain in the Euro 2024 final, Southgate’s leadership and the team’s collective spirit will be pivotal. The dramatic semifinal win has not only boosted the team’s confidence but also set the stage for an exciting showdown in Berlin.
