After overcoming the Netherlands 2-1, England advanced to the Euro 2024 final thanks to a spectacular goal by Ollie Watkins in injury time.

The Aston Villa striker came on as a late substitute and, after deftly holding off defender Stefan de Vrij, fired into the bottom left corner.

Marc Guehi, who had earlier been substituted for Ezri Konsa due to his suspension, was the only change made by Gareth Southgate from the team that overcame Switzerland on penalties in the quarterfinal.

Most importantly, the England manager maintained the three-defender lineup from that match, with Kieran Trippier and Bukayo Saka playing wing-back.

The Three Lions played what may have been their best half of football under Southgate in the first half as a result of that decision.

With an incredible long-range goal in the seventh minute, Xavi Simons gave the Netherlands the lead; however, Harry Kane equalized from the penalty spot.

The Dutch regained some of the initiative in the second half, giving England less chances as the game became more cagey. However, Saka’s goal was disallowed as Kyle Walker was found to be offside.

Then came the moment that supporters of England had been waiting for – Ollie Watkins dribbling the defender before drilling a shot into the bottom left corner that was inch-perfect.

How did we rank the players, though? Look down below.

Pickford, Jordan – 6

 

Although some could argue he should have done more to help the goal, it was still an incredible strike. did the rest of what he had to do. Excellent distribution as always.

Kyle Walker: 7

Outstanding stop in the first half when Malen approached the English goal. Although it hasn’t been his best tournament, he looks a lot more like Kyle Walker of Manchester City tonight.

John Stones: 6

as at ease on the ball as usual. performed admirably when the Netherlands pressed England to retaliate in the second half.

Marc Guehi: 6

Great display by the Crystal Palace player upon rejoining the team. In a back three, more defensively inclined than Walker, but that’s not a terrible thing.

Saka Bukayo: 8

steady danger on the right and, at times, almost played like a winger. Walker was only an arm’s breadth away from adding England’s second goal when it was flagged offside.

Declan Rice, 6

Too easily taken away from the objective. Other than that, they were largely secure in their possession and tried to advance when the chance arose.

POTM: Kobbie Mainoo – 9.

Including this individual in the squad was one of Southgate’s most important decisions. incredibly upbeat in the first half, moving forward with the ball and creating opportunities. performed his defensive duties in the second.

Trippier Kieran – 6

Once more, his left foot issue hindered him during crucial moments. Despite putting up a solid showing, he was replaced at halftime by Shaw, who will probably start once healthy.

Jude Bellingham, 6

Although he wasn’t quite as active as Foden and Mainoo in the first half, he nonetheless contributed to the Dutch defense’s retreat. After the half, quieter.

Phil Foden (8)

His own chance was cleared off the line in the first half despite his incredibly fast feet. continued to search for the space and, in a more central position to which he is accustomed, typically found it. quieter as the Netherlands started to take the lead in the second half.

Harry Kane, (6)

won the penalty and made the conversion; you never thought he would miss from twelve yards. Better movement than we’ve seen in this competition, but with ten minutes remaining, a replacement was made.

Luke Shaw (seven)

It’s great to see the Manchester United player fully recovered. He didn’t have many chances to score, but in the last moments, he created a wonderful cross to find Watkins.

Cole Palmer (7)

changed to Foden came in late and gave it more vigor. fired a shot from the edge of the box over the bar. Subsequently, Watkins’ crucial pass demonstrated why he is relied upon to perform at these crucial times. And he delivers, man.

Ollie Watkins (nine)

tried to occasionally get in behind and stretch the Dutch defense. Next, the objective: a nine rating, or a nine if you’ve ever seen a nine finish. instantaneous immortality.