Dortmund: In a dramatic semi-final clash at Dortmund's Westfalenstadion, England secured a thrilling 2-1 victory over the Netherlands, booking their spot in the Euro 2024 final against Spain. Ollie Watkins emerged as the hero with a sensational injury-time winner, sealing England's fate in a game that had swung wildly from one side to the other.

The match began ominously for England when Xavi Simons put the Dutch ahead early with a stunning strike from distance, leaving goalkeeper Jordan Pickford rooted. Despite this setback, England responded swiftly. Harry Kane, always a pivotal figure, drew them level from the penalty spot after a contentious VAR decision penalised Denzel Dumfries for a challenge on him. Kane's calm finish into the corner nullified the Dutch lead, setting the stage for a tense battle.

As the game wore on, both teams had their chances. Dumfries cleared off the line to deny Phil Foden, while the woodwork denied both sides with efforts from Dumfries and Foden hitting the bar and post respectively. The match seemed destined for extra time, but fate had other plans.

In the dying moments of stoppage time, substitute Cole Palmer found Watkins with a precise pass. Watkins, under pressure and with his back to goal, turned sharply and unleashed a low, precise shot into the far corner, leaving the Dutch defenders and goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen stunned. It was a moment of pure brilliance that etched Watkins' name into English football history and sent the Three Lions into delirium.

"I'm lost for words really," admitted Watkins afterwards. "I don't think I've hit a ball that sweet before, and obviously in such a special moment."

For England, this victory marks their second consecutive European Championship final appearance, a testament to their resilience despite an inconsistent campaign. Manager Gareth Southgate acknowledged the challenge ahead, praising Spain as the best team in the tournament thus far. The Spaniards had secured their spot in the final by defeating France 2-1 a day earlier.

The loss was bitter for the Netherlands, who had hoped to emulate their 1988 Euro triumph. Ronald Koeman, their coach, expressed disappointment but acknowledged the swift turnaround in fortunes that saw them exit the tournament. It was a heartbreak compounded by the brilliance of Watkins' goal, which will long be remembered in football lore.

As England prepares to face Spain in Berlin, the focus now shifts to whether they can elevate their game to secure a first major trophy since 1966. With Watkins' heroics fresh in their minds, the Three Lions will look to defy expectations once more and etch a new chapter in their storied football history. AFP