S Poddar
As tensions soared at the BVB Stadion, the unexpected hero of the night emerged from the bench. Ollie Watkins, with a brilliant strike, secured England’s first final on foreign soil, highlighting Gareth Southgate’s masterful substitutions.
In a thrilling match, England faced an early setback when Xavi Simons scored a stunning goal for the Netherlands. England’s response came through Harry Kane’s penalty, but they struggled to maintain momentum in the second half. When Southgate replaced Kane with Watkins, no one foresaw the game-changing impact.
Watkins’ decisive moment arrived when he received a pass from Cole Palmer, turned away from Stefan de Vrij, and delivered a powerful shot into the net. This goal, coupled with a strong defense, sent England to the final.
The game started under dramatic conditions, with a torrential downpour failing to dampen the spirits. The Dutch fans turned the famous Yellow Wall into a sea of orange, setting the stage for an intense match.
England’s structural issues were apparent early on. Marc Guéhi’s headed clearance led to Declan Rice losing possession to Simons, who advanced and struck a powerful shot past Jordan Pickford. England, now behind for the third consecutive game, maintained composure with Kieran Trippier urging calmness.
England, arranged in a 3-4-2-1 formation, showed promise with Jude Bellingham and Bukayo Saka leading the charge. Kane, looking rejuvenated, tested Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. Saka’s persistent efforts led to a foul by Denzel Dumfries on Kane, resulting in a penalty. Kane confidently scored, leveling the match.
As the game progressed, England pushed forward, with Trippier and Kyle Walker supporting the attack. Phil Foden nearly scored from long range, while Dumfries cleared another attempt off the line. The Netherlands’ defense wavered under pressure.
Southgate’s tactical changes, including introducing Luke Shaw for better balance, initially seemed to lack urgency. The Dutch, compact in defense, made it difficult for England to find space. Pickford made crucial saves, keeping England in the game.
England’s energy waned as the match neared its conclusion. Southgate responded by bringing on Palmer and Watkins. The Netherlands continued to press, with Cody Gakpo posing a threat. Yet, England’s defense, led by Guéhi, stood firm.
The breakthrough came as the match approached the 90th minute. Palmer’s precise pass found Watkins, who turned and scored, sealing England’s victory. The team now heads to Berlin to face Spain in the final, carrying a spirit of resilience and determination.
This victory, marked by Watkins’ heroics, adds to England’s series of defiant performances, including Bellingham’s spectacular goal against Slovakia and the penalty triumph over Switzerland. England’s journey to the final is a testament to their depth and resilience.
