Sunday July 7, 2024
Jude Bellingham of England reacts during the UEFA Euro 2024 quarter-final match between England and Switzerland in Dusseldorf, Germany on July 6, 2024. (Xinhua/Xiao Yijiu)
England's 5-3 (1-1) victory over Switzerland on penalties helped the Three Lions to advance into the semifinals of the Euro 2024 on Saturday in Dusseldorf.
England took the reins from the starting whistle but lacked in penetration and ideas against Switzerland's well-positioned defense.
Goal scoring opportunities remained a rare occurrence as the last presentable chance of the first half fell to Kobbie Mainoo, whose shot got neutralized by midfielder Granit Xhaka just before the break.
Switzerland showed signs of life after the restart as Breel Embolo forced England's goalkeeper Jordan Pickford into action for the first time with a turn shot.
The Swiss gained the upper hand and kept Pickford busy as Embolo unleashed a dangerous shot following Ricardo Rodriguez's pinpoint cross into the box.
Switzerland got rewarded for their efforts in the 75th minute when Embolo latched onto Dan Ndoye's deflected low cross at the far post to flabbergast the Three Lions.
However, Switzerland's narrow lead didn't last long as England was back level five minutes later after Bukayo Saka cut in from the right wing before drilling the ball past Yann Sommer to make it 1-1.
In the extra time, Switzerland posed more threat but failed to score, so the penalty shootout had to bring the decision.
England kept nerves from the spot and converted all penalties, while Switzerland's Manuel Akanji couldn't beat Pickford, sending the Three Lions into the semifinals.
"We caused them a lot of problems with the ball. They are a good side, hard to press, hard to defend against, and their movements are good. Winning tournaments isn't just about playing well. You have got to show it all," said England coach Gareth Southgate.
In the last four, England will face the Netherlands who defeated Türkiye 2-1 later on Saturday.