Ollie Watkins delivered a dramatic late winner as England triumphed 2-1 over the Netherlands in the semi-final of the 2024 European Championship on Wednesday night.
The Aston Villa striker came off the bench to replace Harry Kane with ten minutes remaining and found the net in the 91st minute, ensuring England’s place in the final against Spain on Sunday.
The Netherlands took an early lead in the seventh minute when Xavi Simons scored with a powerful shot. England equalized eleven minutes later when Harry Kane converted a penalty after being fouled in the box.
Both teams fought hard for a decisive goal, but it was Southgate’s substitutions that made the difference. He brought on Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins for Harry Kane and Phil Foden in the 81st minute, adding fresh energy to the team. Palmer set up Watkins, who used his pace and skill to beat Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, sending England players and fans into jubilant celebrations.
The late goal was a crushing blow for Ronald Koeman’s Netherlands, who were poised for extra time.
England will now face Spain in the final on Sunday in Berlin. Watkins expressed his elation at being the match-winner after patiently waiting for his opportunity.
“I’ve been waiting for that moment for weeks,” Watkins said. “It’s taken a lot of hard work to get to where I am today. I’m delighted. I swear on my life that I said to Cole Palmer that he’s going to set me up today and I’m going to score. It’s the best feeling ever.
“There’s been a lot of criticism but we’re in the final and that’s all that matters. We’ve got that bounce-back factor. Going behind seems to kick us into gear. We’ve won on penalties and come from behind.”
England’s victory marks their second consecutive European Championship final, following their loss to Italy in the 2021 final at Wembley.
