England secured their place in the European Championship final with a dramatic stoppage-time goal from substitute Ollie Watkins, defeating the Netherlands 2-1 in Dortmund.
The match, poised for extra time, saw Watkins convert a pass from fellow substitute Cole Palmer, sending a precise shot into the far corner of the net. Earlier, Xavi Simons had given the Dutch an early lead with a stunning goal in the 7th minute, but England responded 11 minutes later with a Harry Kane penalty.
The first half was action-packed with chances for both sides, but the second half settled into a tense battle before Watkins’ late heroics clinched the victory for England. They will now face Spain in the final in Berlin on Sunday.
“History made – amazing achievement,” said Kane. “We talk about being ready – you might get five minutes, one minute, but you can make a difference, you can win a tournament, and Ollie’s been patient, and what he did out there was outstanding.”
Watkins, who has had limited playing time in Germany, expressed his delight: “I’ve been waiting for that moment for weeks, I’m delighted. I swear on my life that I said to Cole Palmer that he’s going to set me up today and I’m going to score. It’s the best feeling ever.”
England, criticized for their lackluster performance in earlier matches, displayed a transformed team despite falling behind to Simons’ spectacular strike. Kane’s penalty came after a VAR review confirmed a foul by Denzel Dumfries. Phil Foden almost gave England the lead with a brilliant run, only to see his shot cleared off the line by Dumfries. Foden later hit the post with a curling shot, while Dumfries also struck the bar with a header.
Source: Reuters
