Gareth Southgate is relieved and excited that England has made it to the final of UEFA EURO 2024 despite initial hiccups in group matches and the Round of 16. He said it’s a landmark victory for the Three Lions.
Ollie Watkins scored the win for England in the semi-final against Netherlands, breaking the draw to 2-1. The Netherlands took an early lead when Xavi Simons scored from long-range. But this was quickly equalized by the English captain Harry Kane. It was a pressing and complicated match, and England kept up the pace, changing and responding.
Southgate commended the team, saying the whole squad is ready to come into the game. He said there was energy. England lost some pressure in the second half but was pushed ahead by Ollie in the 90th minute.
The England coach believes they deserved to win. He highlighted the players were very fluid in their formation, and adapted to the gameplay, made good decisions. This is the first that England has reached the final of a major tournament on foreign soil.
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England Aims to End 58-year Trophy Hiatus
Now, England is preparing to face Spain in the final on Sunday. But it won’t be easy as the opponent is youthful and skilled. Spain is unequivocally the best team in the UEFA EURO 2024 tournament. England is aiming to end its 58-year hiatus of not winning any major trophy.
Moreover, Southgate wants to brush away the criticism that has been leveled against him and end on a high note. Gareth admitted that it has been difficult for him. The coach said when you are doing something for your country and are a proud Englishman, and when you don’t feel that back and only get criticism, it’s hard.
But Southgate won’t let criticism to dampen the team’s spirits. He highlighted that to be able to celebrate a second final is very special.
