England’s pursuit of their first major tournament victory in 58 years remains alive after a dramatic comeback led them to a 5-3 penalty shootout win over Switzerland, securing their spot in the Euro 2024 semi-finals.
The match ended 1-1 after 120 minutes, with goalkeeper Jordan Pickford emerging as England's hero by saving Switzerland’s first penalty attempt from Manuel Akanji.
Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, and Trent Alexander-Arnold all successfully converted their penalties, propelling England to a semi-final clash with either Turkey or the Netherlands in Dortmund on Wednesday.
Following Bellingham’s crucial 95th-minute equaliser against Slovakia in the last 16, which led to an extra-time victory, England once again faced the prospect of defeat with just 10 minutes remaining.
A largely uneventful first 75 minutes saw Breel Embolo give Switzerland the lead. However, Saka’s impressive strike from outside the box equalised with England’s first shot on target five minutes later.
Manchester City defender Akanji became the unfortunate penalty villain, continuing Switzerland’s dismal record in major tournament quarter-finals, having lost five times without ever reaching a semi-final.
Conversely, England advanced despite another lackluster performance from Gareth Southgate’s team. In his 100th match as England’s manager, Southgate resisted calls for significant changes but did adjust his formation.
Ezri Konsa made his competitive international debut, replacing the suspended Marc Guehi as England switched to a back three. Contrary to expectations, Saka remained on the right wing, a decision by Southgate that proved to be inspired. The Arsenal winger was the standout performer in a first half that saw neither team manage a shot on target.
Post a Comment