Home Football Super sub Ollie Watkins scores a SENSATIONAL injury-time winner to propel the Three Lions into the final, having replaced Harry Kane

Super sub Ollie Watkins scores a SENSATIONAL injury-time winner to propel the Three Lions into the final, having replaced Harry Kane

Football — 07/11/2024

In the 90+1 minute, Watkins turned and scored an impressive goal to help England defeat the Netherlands 2-1 in the semi-finals of EURO 2024.

Netherlands vs England 1

In the 7th minute, Jude Bellingham lost the ball dangerously. Xavi Simons seized the opportunity to break through and unleash a powerful shot. The ball went straight into the top corner, giving Jordan Pickford no chance to save it.

According to Opta, Xavi Simons’ goal was the earliest in a EURO semi-final since Alan Shearer’s strike against Germany at EURO 1996.

DORTMUND, GERMANY - JULY 10: Ollie Watkins of England scores a goal to put England 2-1 ahead during the UEFA EURO 2024 semi-final match between Netherlands and England at Football Stadium Dortmund on July 10, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Crystal Pix/MB Media/Getty Images)

England responded in the 14th minute. Harry Kane fired a long-range shot, which was blocked by goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. In the ensuing play, Kane was fouled by Dumfries in the penalty area.

Initially, the referee did not call a foul. However, after consulting VAR, Mr. Zwayer awarded a penalty to England. Kane confidently converted from the spot, maintaining his perfect record of 10 consecutive successful penalty kicks.

DORTMUND, GERMANY - JULY 10: Ollie Watkins of England celebrates victory with Harry Kane after the UEFA EURO 2024 semi-final match between Netherlands and England at Football Stadium Dortmund on July 10, 2024 in Dortmund, Germany. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)

In the 23rd minute, England nearly scored again. Mainoo’s clever pass found Foden, who dribbled past defenders and took a shot. Dumfries made a crucial goal-line clearance to deny the goal.

Dumfries almost turned hero for the Netherlands in the 30th minute, heading the ball against the crossbar. England quickly responded with Foden’s long-range effort hitting the post.

England's Ollie Watkins (left) and Marc Guehi celebrate the win after the UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final match at the BVB Stadion Dortmund in Dortmund, Germany. Picture date: Wednesday July 10, 2024. PA Photo. See PA Story SOCCER England. Photo credit should read: Nick Potts/PA Wire.RESTRICTIONS: Use subject to restrictions. Editorial use only, no commercial use without prior consent from rights holder.

The first half ended in a draw, with both teams providing an exciting, action-packed display, a stark contrast to their previous lackluster performances.

The second half started slowly, with the first major chance coming in the 65th minute when Virgil Van Dijk’s close-range shot forced a difficult save from Pickford. In the 77th minute, Xavi Simons’ volley was on target, but Pickford was well-positioned to catch it.

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In the 78th minute, Saka thought he had scored with a one-touch shot, but the referee disallowed the goal due to Walker’s offside position during the cross.

Netherlands vs England 6

As the match seemed destined for extra time, Ollie Watkins shone with a turn and shot from a tight angle in the 90+1 minute, leaving the Dutch goalkeeper no chance. Coach Southgate’s decision to bring on Watkins and Palmer proved crucial, as Palmer assisted Watkins for the decisive goal.