Watch Netherlands vs England full match replay and highlights.
KICK-OFF at 19:00 (GMT) on 10th July 2024
The referee for this match is F. Zwayer
Game played at BVB Stadion Dortmund
This is a match in Europe – UEFA Euro, Semi Finals, Season 2024
England Edge Netherlands 2-1 with Dramatic Late Winner to Reach Euro 2024 Final
In a thrilling semi-final clash, England defeated the Netherlands 2-1 thanks to a stoppage-time strike from Ollie Watkins, setting up a much-anticipated UEFA European Championship final against Spain in Berlin. The victory offers England a chance to redeem themselves after their penalty heartbreak in the Euro 2020 final.
Match Highlights
- Early Risks and Stunning Opener: England, determined to reach consecutive Euro finals, took early risks. However, this approach allowed the Netherlands to score a spectacular opener. Xavi Simons capitalized on a mistake by Declan Rice, firing a long-range shot into the top corner, sending the Dutch fans into raptures.
- England’s Response: Undeterred, England’s captain Harry Kane tested the Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen with a long-range effort. Kane then won and converted a penalty, drawing England level and becoming the top knockout marksman in Euros history, surpassing Antoine Griezmann.
- Foden’s Brilliance and Dutch Resilience: Phil Foden, with a brilliant solo effort, almost gave England the lead, but Denzel Dumfries cleared the ball off the line. Dumfries then hit the crossbar at the other end, while Foden struck the woodwork again, keeping the score tied at halftime.
Second Half Strategies
- Tactical Adjustments: Ronald Koeman tightened the Dutch midfield after the break, disrupting England’s control. Virgil van Dijk’s shot tested Jordan Pickford, indicating a shift in momentum.
- Disallowed Goal and Final Push: England’s Bukayo Saka had a goal disallowed due to Kyle Walker’s offside position. As the match approached the end of normal time, England mounted one final push, buoyed by Southgate’s strategic substitutions.
The Decisive Moment
- Watkins’ Heroics: In stoppage time, Ollie Watkins received the ball from Cole Palmer, spun away from Stefan de Vrij, and fired into the bottom corner, securing England’s dramatic victory and their place in the final.
Key Takeaways
- Kane’s Leadership: Harry Kane’s performance, including his record-breaking penalty, was crucial in inspiring England’s comeback.
- Foden’s Impact: Phil Foden’s dazzling playmaking and near-goals were instrumental in maintaining pressure on the Dutch defense.
- Watkins’ Clutch Performance: Ollie Watkins’ late goal demonstrated his composure and effectiveness under pressure.
Historical Context
- England’s Redemption: This victory sets up a chance for England to redeem themselves from their previous Euro final loss.
- Netherlands’ Struggles: The Netherlands were unable to replicate their 1988 Euros triumph, their only major tournament win to date.
Looking Ahead
England will now face Spain in the Euro 2024 final in Berlin, bringing two high-performing teams head-to-head in what promises to be an epic showdown.