Ollie Watkins Secures England’s Euro 2024 Final Berth with Late Winner against the Netherlands
In a thrilling semi-final clash at the Westfalenstadion, Ollie Watkins experienced the greatest moment of his football career so far, scoring the winning goal for England in the final minute to seal a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands and secure their place in the Euro 2024 final.
The Aston Villa striker, who had only just come off the bench, made the most of his opportunity, turning and firing home Cole Palmer’s assist to send the England fans into ecstasy. Watkins’ goal marked an incredible journey for the 28-year-old, who started his career in League Two with Exeter City before working his way up to the Premier League with Brentford and now Aston Villa, where he enjoyed a standout 2023/24 season, netting 24 goals and providing 13 assists to help the club secure a surprise Champions League qualification.
“I swear on my kids’ life, I told Cole Palmer earlier today, we’d be coming on and he’d set me up and I’d score. And it happened,” Watkins said. “I’m lost for words, really. When you score there are emotions that come through your body but this is a different feeling. It was slow motion when I was running over to the boys and celebrating.”
The scenes after the final whistle were equally heartwarming, as Watkins was mobbed by his teammates and then gifted a special moment by the rest of the squad. With the England supporters in the Westfalenstadion chanting Watkins’ name, the rest of the Three Lions players joined in, showing the incredible togetherness and spirit within Gareth Southgate’s squad.
Watkins’ Heroics Cement His Place as a National Hero
“This moment felt so special. The entire England end showing Ollie Watkins just how much we love him. Demonstrates perfectly the togetherness that Southgate has built in the squad, no egos, everyone pushing Watkins forward to receive his praise,” tweeted Rory Jennings, a prominent football analyst.
With this victory, England have secured their place in the Euro 2024 final, where they will look to defend their title and win a second consecutive European Championship. Watkins’ heroics have undoubtedly cemented his place as a national hero, and the memories of this momentous occasion will surely stay with him for the rest of his career.
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