The more surprises England conjures, the more it seems this is their moment. Despite facing significant challenges during their gripping semi-final win over a decent, though not exceptional, Netherlands team, England emerged victorious. At times, the game appeared to be slipping away, especially when Ronald Koeman adjusted his tactics midway through the first half and the Dutch intensified their efforts as extra time loomed. There was a growing fear that it would be another night filled with questions about Gareth Southgate’s decisions on the touchline.
However, there’s something remarkable about a team that can withstand setbacks and still find ways to recover. Following Jude Bellingham’s spectacular overhead kick against Slovakia and the ice-cool penalty shootout against Switzerland, this moment will be remembered as timeless. Thanks to the efforts of Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer, it stands as the ultimate response to critics who have consistently blamed Southgate’s in-game management for every setback.
England’s manager has faced ridicule, mockery, and even been pelted with empty beer cups. His tactics have been scrutinized, and he’s been accused of benefiting from easy draws. But when Southgate turned to his bench with 10 minutes left in this match, it must have been immensely gratifying to see the two players he brought on for a fatigued Harry Kane and Phil Foden orchestrate the goal that propelled England into their first-ever final on foreign soil.
There was no better display of the spirit Southgate has instilled in his team than when Watkins received a pass from Palmer in the 90th minute, held off Stefan de Vrij, and sharply turned before scoring with an angled shot into the far corner to make it 2-1.
In a different context, Watkins might not have been in the right mindset to make such a stunning impact. The Aston Villa striker hadn’t played since England’s second game—a dispiriting draw with Denmark that increased the pressure on Southgate—and he knows that few roles in football are as thankless as being Kane’s backup.
However, Southgate’s substitutes have made various positive contributions throughout these Euros. This team, though not perfect, has developed invaluable resilience. This resilience was evident in Marc Guéhi’s defending, as he returned from suspension to make a crucial block on Wout Weghorst in the second half, and in the team’s response after the Netherlands took the lead with a spectacular goal from Xavi Simons.
For the third consecutive game, England found themselves trailing but refused to panic. Driven by 19-year-old Kobbie Mainoo, who once again showcased his brilliance in midfield with his deft touches, they equalized when Kane scored from the penalty spot following a foul by Denzel Dumfries. At times, with Bukayo Saka unstoppable on the right and Phil Foden delivering his best performance of the tournament, it seemed in the first half that England might dominate. However, their inability to secure the game at that point will concern Southgate, as they cannot afford to be so lenient against Spain in Sunday’s final in Berlin.
But for now, thoughts of facing Lamine Yamal, Nico Williams, and Rodri can wait. England can take pride in how they responded to the Dutch’s strong start.
Early on, there were structural issues on England’s left side. This was evident after seven minutes when Marc Guéhi’s clearing header fell to Declan Rice, who was slow to react and quickly dispossessed by Xavi Simons.
In a tournament featuring remarkable goals by young talents, Simons added another. Advancing with determination and undeterred by John Stones backing off, he unleashed a powerful right-footed shot from outside the area into the far corner. The speed of the shot stunned Jordan Pickford, who despite getting a hand to the ball, was beaten by its sheer power.
On the left, Kieran Trippier called for calm, and Declan Rice regained his composure. Playing in their usual 3-4-2-1 formation, England drew confidence from Harry Kane’s increased freedom of movement.
Kane, determined to prove his fitness, looked stronger as he held off defenders and spearheaded the comeback. England saw a glimmer of hope when Kane, having eluded Virgil van Dijk, forced a save from Bart Verbruggen with a 25-yard shot.
Next, Bukayo Saka drove forward, evading Nathan Aké, who was struggling defensively. The Dutch defense, gripped by desperation, panicked when the ball reached Kane, who shot just before being fouled by Denzel Dumfries.
The foul was clear, though it required a VAR review, and Kane prepared for his first tournament penalty since missing against France. Any nerves? None. Despite Verbruggen guessing correctly and diving to his right, Kane’s shot was too powerful and well-placed.
England continued to press forward, with Kyle Walker providing support for Saka through overlapping runs. Phil Foden became untouchable for a period, with one curling shot hitting the woodwork and another cleared off the line by Dumfries.
The Netherlands right-back, Denzel Dumfries, was having quite the half. He nearly scored when he headed a corner against the bar, a warning for England. However, the Dutch were barely holding on. Kobbie Mainoo, who dazzled with a delightful mid-air turn, was dominating the midfield.
In response, Ronald Koeman substituted the hamstrung Memphis Depay with Joey Veerman, who strengthened the midfield. This change made a noticeable difference. Koeman also adjusted his attack at halftime, replacing Donyell Malen with Wout Weghorst.
Even after bringing on Luke Shaw for Kieran Trippier, England struggled to regain their rhythm. They couldn’t effectively work the ball to Bukayo Saka, and Jude Bellingham’s influence was diminished. Jordan Pickford had to deny Nathan Aké following a poorly defended free-kick.
The Dutch midfield trio of Tijani Reijnders, Jerdy Schouten, and Joey Veerman were controlling the game’s tempo. After Bukayo Saka had a goal disallowed due to Kyle Walker being offside, Southgate reacted by bringing on Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer.
The game was evenly poised. Cody Gakpo had become a threat on the left for the Netherlands. Although Palmer missed a shot over the bar, he remained composed. England launched another attack, and Palmer skillfully found Watkins, whose precise finish left Verbruggen with no chance.
With little time remaining, Harry Kane was on the touchline, giving instructions alongside Southgate. England’s unity was undeniable. They may not be the favorites against Spain, but they should not be underestimated.
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