England’s Ollie Watkins Scores In Stoppage Time England Beats Netherlands 2-1
In a dramatic semifinal clash at the 2024 Euro Cup, England secured a place in their second consecutive European Championship final by defeating the Netherlands 2-1. The match, held in Dortmund, Germany, was decided in stoppage time by substitute Ollie Watkins, whose decision goal capped a thrilling evening of football.
The game had an electrifying start, with the Dutch taking an early lead. After just seven minutes, Xavi Simons capitalized on a mistake by Declan Rice, unleashing a spectacular strike into the top corner. The early goal energized the “Orange Wall” of Dutch fans, but their joy was short lived.
England responded with vigor, and in the 18th minute, Harry Kane leveled the score from the penalty spot. Kane earned the penalty after a VAR review confirmed that he was fouled by Denzel Dumfries. Kane’s precise shot into the bottom corner reignited the hopes of English supporters.
The first half was a frenetic display of attacking football from both side. Phil Foden nearly gave England the lead when he skillfully navigated through multiple Dutch defenders, only to have his shot cleared off the line by Dumfries. Moments later, Dumfries threatened again, heading a corner against the bar. England retaliated with a curling effort from Foden that struck the post.
The second half began with tactical adjustments from both teams. The Netherlands introduced striker Wout Weghorst, while England brought on Luke Shaw. However, the match’s tempo initially slowed, and England appeared to lose some of their attacking impetus.
For English fans, the match evoked memories of previous tournaments where early dominance faded into eventual disappointment. Sending the need for change, England manger Garth Southgate made bold substitutions, replacing Foden and Kane with Watkins and Cole Palmer in the 80th minute. This decision proved pivotal.
England thought they had scored a second when Bukayo Saka turned in a cross from Kyle Walker, but the goal was ruled out for offside. Undeterred, Palmer continued to pose a threat, and in stoppage time, he delivered a precise pass to Watkins. Watkins composed finish into the far corner sent the English fans into raptures and secured England’s place in the final.
The victory was a testament to England’s resilience and tactical adaptability. The team displayed a transformation from their earlier performances in the tournament, where they struggled to create chances against Slovenia, Slovakia, and Switzerland. In contrast, their semifinal showing was full of creativity and attacking flair, with Foden, Jude Bellingham, and Bukayo Saka showcasing the skills that have made them standout performers for their clubs.
For the Netherlands, the defeat was a bitter blow. Despite their promising start and periods of dominance, they fell short in their 1988 triumph. The loss marked their fourth semifinal exit since winning the title, extending their long wait for another major trophy.
England now prepares to face Spain in the final in Berlin on Sunday, brimming with confidence from their semifinal success. The dramatic victory over the Netherlands has set the stage for what promise to be an enthralling conclusion to the 2024 Euro Cup.
