In a heart-stopping finale, Ollie Watkins’ 90th-minute goal secured England’s place in the Euro 2024 final, defeating the Netherlands 2-1 in a pulsating semifinal clash. The Aston Villa striker, introduced as a substitute in the 81st minute, etched his name into English football history with a sublime finish that sent the team and fans into raptures.
England manager Gareth Southgate was overcome with emotion at the final whistle, having masterminded his team’s journey to their first major tournament final on foreign soil. Southgate’s men will now face Spain in the final on Sunday, with the manager aiming to emulate the legendary Sir Alf Ramsey’s World Cup-winning feat.
The match got off to a dramatic start, with a thunderstorm preceding kickoff that had Southgate concerned about the pitch conditions. However, it was the Netherlands who struck first, with Xavi Simons’ precision finish finding the top corner after just seven minutes. Declan Rice’s loss of possession in his own half had gifted the Paris Saint-Germain forward the opportunity.
Harry Kane restored parity from the penalty spot, coolly converting after being fouled by Denzel Dumfries. The England captain’s third goal of the tournament drew him level with the Golden Boot leaders. Bukayo Saka had a goal ruled out for offside before Watkins’ decisive intervention.
As the match hung in the balance, Watkins received a pass from Cole Palmer and expertly angled his shot through the legs of Stefan De Vrij, finding the far corner with unerring accuracy. The stadium erupted as Watkins celebrated his winner, cementing England’s place in the final.
With four days to prepare for the showdown against Spain, Southgate will be buoyed by his team’s resilience and determination. Can England write a new chapter in their football history? The world will be watching on Sunday.
