DORTMUND: Ollie Watkins scored a dramatic last-minute goal to secure a 2-1 victory for England over the Netherlands, setting up a Euro 2024 final clash against Spain in Berlin.
The match started off poorly for England, with Xavi Simons giving the Netherlands an early lead in the semifinal in Dortmund.
However, England equalised through a Harry Kane penalty after a controversial VAR decision by German referee Felix Zwayer.
The game seemed headed for extra time until Watkins’ late winner. Watkins, who came on for Harry Kane, received a pass from Cole Palmer, turned, and slotted the ball into the far corner in stoppage time, leaving the Netherlands in shock.
Despite an unconvincing campaign, Gareth Southgate’s England team has reached their second consecutive European Championship final, aiming to win their first major trophy since 1966.
They will need to step up their game against a strong Spanish side. Spain, who defeated France 2-1 on Tuesday, will have an extra day to prepare for the final.
The Netherlands, hoping to replicate their 1988 Euros victory in Germany, lack the star quality of players like Marco van Basten or Ruud Gullit in their current squad.
Source: FMT