Ollie Watkins transformed from patient spectator to national hero in a thrilling 10-minute cameo, sealing England’s place in their second consecutive Euro final. The Aston Villa striker’s late winner left the Netherlands stunned and vindicated by the tactical acumen of Gareth Southgate.
Watkins, who had only played 20 minutes in the entire tournament, seized his moment with remarkable prescience. “I swear on my kids’ life, I told Cole Palmer earlier today, we’d be coming on and he’d set me up and I’d score. And it happened,” he revealed to ITV after the match.
This victory continues England’s puzzling yet successful journey through Euro 2024. Despite underwhelming group stage performances, the Three Lions have repeatedly rallied from behind in knockout matches. Southgate’s leadership, often understated, has proven crucial in these comebacks.
While Spain will enter the final as favorites, they’d be unwise to underestimate England’s ability to turn adversity into triumph. Here’s a breakdown of the winners and losers from this pulsating semi-final:
Winners:
- Ollie Watkins: After contributing 32 combined goals and assists in the Premier League, Watkins finally got his chance on the big stage. He immediately made his presence felt, narrowly missing a Luke Shaw cross before scoring the decisive goal. His inclusion in the squad, once questioned, now seems inspired.
- Gareth Southgate: Often criticized for his substitution hesitancy, Southgate’s changes proved masterful. He introduced Luke Shaw early, then timed the introductions of Palmer and Watkins perfectly. These decisions ultimately won England the game and potentially secured the legacy of Southgate.
- England’s Stockport Stars: Phil Foden, Kobbie Mainoo, and Cole Palmer, all from the Greater Manchester area, shone brightly. Foden terrorized the Dutch defense, Mainoo controlled midfield with poise beyond his years, and Palmer provided the assist for the winning goal.
Losers:
- Memphis Depay: The Dutch talisman’s tournament ended prematurely due to injury after just 35 minutes. His absence destabilized the Netherlands’ attack and left him powerless to influence the outcome.
- VAR: Controversy struck again as England received a questionable penalty. Even Gary Neville, typically pro-England, called it “absolutely disgraceful” and “offensive” to defenders. This decision follows other contentious VAR calls in the tournament, raising questions about its implementation.
- Dutch Fans: The Orange Army outnumbered England supporters in Dortmund but left disappointed. Their dreams of replicating the success of Euro ’84 were dashed by Watkins’ late strike.
As England prepares to face Spain in Berlin, they carry the momentum of this dramatic victory. Southgate, who can navigate tough matches and inspire his team, has brought them to the brink of history. Whether this proves to be his final act as England manager or not, he’s undeniably rekindled the nation’s footballing hopes.
