- Ollie Watkins scores in stoppage time to defeat the Netherlands.
- England to face Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
- Controversial penalty helps England level the game.
DORTMUND: In a thrilling match, Ollie Watkins scored a stunning injury-time goal to give England a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands on Wednesday, securing their place in the Euro 2024 final against Spain in Berlin.
The evening started poorly for England as Xavi Simons scored early for the Netherlands. However, England soon equalized with a Harry Kane penalty following a controversial VAR decision by German referee Felix Zwayer. The game seemed destined for extra time until Watkins, who came on for Kane, received a pass from substitute Cole Palmer in stoppage time. With his back to the goal, Watkins turned and fired into the far corner, leaving the Dutch stunned.
“I don’t think I’ve hit a ball that sweet before,” said Watkins, the Aston Villa striker. “And to do it in such a special moment, I’m lost for words.”
Despite an inconsistent campaign, Gareth Southgate’s team is through to their second consecutive European Championship final, dreaming of winning their first major trophy since 1966. To achieve this, they must overcome a strong Spanish team that defeated France 2-1 on Tuesday.
“We face the best team in the tournament and have a day less to prepare, so it’s a huge task,” Southgate said. “But we’re still here and we’re fighting.”
The Dutch hoped to repeat their 1988 Euros triumph in Germany but fell short. Coach Ronald Koeman expressed his disappointment, stating, “A great goal, and then it’s over, and that is difficult to accept.”
England reached the semi-finals without winning any of their last four matches in 90 minutes, including extra-time battles against Slovakia and Switzerland. This gave the Dutch a perceived physical edge, but England managed to prevail.
The match began with Simons’ brilliant goal in the seventh minute, catching Declan Rice off-guard and firing a powerful shot past Jordan Pickford. England quickly responded, with Kane forcing a save from Bart Verbruggen and winning a penalty after a review. Kane, who had missed a crucial spot-kick in the 2022 World Cup, confidently converted to level the score.
The game remained open and exciting, with both teams hitting the woodwork. Koeman adjusted his strategy after Memphis Depay’s injury, bringing in Joey Veerman to bolster the midfield. Despite a strong push from the Dutch in the second half, England’s defense held firm.
As the match approached its conclusion, Southgate substituted Kane and Phil Foden for Watkins and Palmer, a move that proved decisive. Watkins’ last-minute goal sealed the victory, sending England into the final and the Dutch team home.
