Football News: England’s Penalty Heroes Shine in Euro 2024 Quarter-Final Victory
In a thrilling quarter-final clash at the Euro 2024 in Dusseldorf, England overcame Switzerland in a nail-biting penalty shootout to secure their place in the semi-finals.
The Three Lions came from behind to equalize in the dying moments of regulation time, thanks to a brilliant strike from Arsenal’s Bukayo Saka. The match progressed to extra time and ultimately a penalty shootout, where all five of England’s takers – Cole Palmer, Saka, Jude Bellingham, Ivan Toney, and Trent Alexander-Arnold – confidently found the back of the net.
“Manchester United legend Paul Scholes was full of praise for England’s penalty heroes, describing Saka’s composure as having ‘balls the size of melons’ in a somewhat risque social media post.”
Saka, who had faced criticism in the past for his penalty miss in the Euro 2020 final, redeemed himself with a brilliant performance, capping it off with a perfect spot-kick.
The victory sets up a semi-final clash against the Netherlands on Wednesday, as Gareth Southgate’s side look to continue their impressive run and reach the final in Berlin. The England manager has largely stuck with the same starting XI throughout the tournament, with Saka retaining his place despite calls from some for Cole Palmer to replace him.
With the chance to reach the final within their grasp, all eyes will be on England as they aim to end their long wait for a major international trophy and potentially secure a spot in the 2024 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
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