Euro 2024: England book semifinal berth after shootout win over gritty Switzerland

Euro 2024: England book semifinal berth after shootout win over gritty Switzerland

Eric Munene 23:57 - 06.07.2024

England had crumbled to the pressure until when they equalized thanks to the Gunner boys

In a heart-stopping match in Düsseldorf, England's Euro 2024 campaign hung in the balance until a dramatic turnaround saw them snatch victory from Switzerland's grasp.

The Three Lions, led by Gareth Southgate in his 100th match at the helm, faced a do-or-die scenario after falling behind late in the game.

However, a spirited fightback and a nerve-wracking penalty shootout ultimately propelled them into the semi-finals, marking their third major tournament semi-final under Southgate's stewardship.

After a lackluster start and mounting pressure from Switzerland's attack, which threatened but failed to break through initially, England found themselves on the back foot.

The introduction of a tactical adjustment mirrored their opponent's defensive strategy, bringing a semblance of control but struggling to create clear scoring opportunities in the first half.

It was a tense affair with both sides unable to register a single shot on target before the break, highlighting the intensity and nerves gripping both teams.

Switzerland, buoyed by their recent dominant performances, eventually seized the advantage with Breel Embolo's breakthrough goal in the latter stages of the match.

Facing imminent elimination, England rallied. A moment of brilliance from Bukayo Saka, cutting inside and curling an exquisite shot into the net, pulled them back level, reigniting hope among the Three Lions faithful with just minutes remaining in regular time.

The game ebbed into extra-time, where both teams came close to deciding the match outright. Declan Rice's thunderous effort was denied by a fingertip save, while Switzerland's veteran Xherdan Shaqiri rattled the woodwork from a corner, leaving fans on the edge of their seats. With no further goals, the contest progressed to a nerve-jangling penalty shootout.

Under the electric atmosphere and the weight of expectations, England displayed composure from the spot. Cole Palmer set the tone with a confident conversion, followed by a crucial save from Jordan Pickford. The Three Lions held their nerve, converting all their penalties flawlessly, with Trent Alexander-Arnold sealing their place in the semi-finals amidst scenes of jubilation.

As the dust settled on their rollercoaster journey in Düsseldorf, England's resilience and determination shone through, overcoming adversity to keep their Euro 2024 dreams alive. With another semi-final beckoning in Dortmund, Gareth Southgate's men have once again proven their mettle on the grand stage, poised to etch their names further into footballing history.

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