England will meet Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin on Sunday, thanks to a dramatic last-minute goal by substitute Ollie Watkins that secured victory over the Netherlands.
Gareth Southgate’s team appeared headed for extra time for the third game in a row after Harry Kane’s controversial first-half penalty canceled out Xavi Simons’ early thunderous strike. However,Watkins’ late goal changed everything.
England dominated the first half, with Phil Foden in top form. Foden hit the post with a long-range shot and forced a great save from Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.
The Netherlands, who had Denzel Dumfries’ header hit the bar before halftime, took control in the second half. It took crucial saves from England keeper Jordan Pickford to keep the match level.
Just when extra time seemed inevitable, Watkins, who had come on for Kane, delivered a brilliant late goal on the turn, propelling England to their second consecutive European Championship final on a thrilling night in Dortmund.
Southgate’s England one game from glory
England’s triumph over the Netherlands in Dortmund has brought Southgate and his squad within one game of making history, aiming to end the “years of hurt” that have persisted for 58 years.
Their campaign in Germany began slowly but ignited on a stormy night, giving England the chance to secure glory against favorites Spain at the Olympiastadion.
This will be England’s first final on foreign soil since the 1966 World Cup final and the Euro 2020 final, both held at Wembley.
England reached the final in typical fashion for this tournament: coming from behind, enduring tense moments, and ultimately winning through a late goal from Watkins. This achievement offers England a chance to avenge their painful penalty shootout loss to Italy at Wembley in the Euro 2020 final.
During Southgate’s eight-year tenure, England has often been close to major victories but has fallen short. This final presents an opportunity to change that narrative and write a new chapter in their history.
For Southgate, reaching another final validates his methods, which have been heavily scrutinized after earlier lackluster performances. A victory in Berlin would redefine his legacy.
The decisive moment came with the introduction of Watkins with nine minutes remaining. The Aston Villa striker injected energy and pace, troubling the Dutch defense, and his skillful finish across Verbruggen sealed the win in a tight match.