In a dramatic finish, substitute Ollie Watkins scored a last-minute goal to propel England to their second consecutive European Championship final on Wednesday, overcoming the Netherlands 2-1 in an electrifying match in Dortmund, Germany.
As the game seemed destined for extra time, Watkins received a precise pass from fellow substitute Cole Palmer and delivered a superb shot into the far corner of the net.
“Unbelievable. I’ve been waiting for that moment for weeks, for weeks,” said Watkins, the Aston Villa forward, post-match. “It’s taken a lot of hard work to get to where I am today, and I’m grateful for the opportunity. I’ve grabbed it with both hands, and I’m delighted.
“I swear on my life, I told Cole Palmer: we’re coming on today and you’re going to set me up. That’s why I was so happy with Coley.”
The match had an early spark when Xavi Simons gave the Dutch team the lead just seven minutes in. England quickly responded, equalizing 11 minutes later through a Harry Kane penalty.
The first half was action-packed with numerous chances for both teams. The second half saw a more settled game until the late drama unfolded, sending England to face Spain in Berlin on Sunday.
“History made — amazing achievement,” remarked Kane on England’s first major final on foreign soil. “To do what we’ve done away from home is really special.
“We talk about being ready — you might get five minutes, one minute, but you can make a difference, you can win a tournament — and Ollie’s been waiting, he’s been patient, and what he did out there was outstanding.”
