Ollie Watkins’ decisive goal against the Netherlands encapsulates the narrative of England’s journey under Gareth Southgate during Euro 2024

Ollie Watkins and substitute Cole Palmer teamed up for England’s dramatic late winner against the Netherlands, securing a 2-1 victory in their semi-final and paving the way for a final clash against Spain in Berlin this Sunday. Late goals, decisive contributions from substitutes, and scoring from unexpected angles have defined England’s journey in the tournament thus far.

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At the 89:59 mark, Ollie Watkins etched his name into the annals of England’s football history with a last-second contribution

Stamp that time on a t-shirt: England’s newest late winner at the Euros, and the latest winner ever in normal time at the tournament Bongdalu.

It was a game-changing moment that saw his teammates showering praise on the talented Aston Villa star, while spectators marveled at his incredible journey from Weston-super-Mare all the way to Berlin.

Watkins’ achievement also provides significant insights into the broader context of England’s team dynamics: their journey, transformation, and the evolution of their manager, Gareth Southgate.

From being cautious observers to courageously taking risks

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For a considerable time, it stood as Southgate’s most glaring flaw, a glaring target for his detractors. The sight of him on the sideline, hesitant or unwilling or uncertain about when to act, seemed poised to be a stark indictment of his ability to manage the national team during matches.

Instances of such hesitancy have also been observed in Germany. For instance, his choice to bring on Anthony Gordon during the 89th minute of the uneventful draw with Slovenia, or his delay until the 90+4 minute mark to introduce Ivan Toney, despite England trailing Slovakia in the round of 16.

Yet Southgate’s decisions have proven justified during these crucial knockout phases. England have consistently managed to prevail, which has emboldened Southgate, making him more assured and decisive in his strategic choices.

Replacing Harry Kane and Phil Foden, England’s standout performers in the match against the Netherlands, proved pivotal, as their substitutes Watkins and Cole Palmer linked up to secure the winning goal.

Kane’s aura of invincibility has faded

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In the past, England’s managers were notorious for steadfastly supporting their star players, treating them as untouchable figures. Harry Kane, once among those untouchables, experienced a notable shift on Wednesday night. It marked the first occasion in his career when he was substituted during regular time, while England urgently sought a goal in a crucial knockout match.

Despite concerns about his fitness and slightly dulled form, his crucial penalty goal, which elevated him to the top scorer in Euros knockout games, underscored his immense importance to the team. While he is slated to start in the final, his place on the pitch until the last whistle is no longer assured.

Danger from Watkins and Toney

Watkins and Toney pose a dual threat that any squad would covet. In this Euros, with larger squad sizes, Southgate capitalized on having both players available. Whether needing a target man and penalty expert like Toney or a swift runner like Watkins, their contributions were pivotal, particularly in matches against Germany.

The hidden strength in the England’s

And England’s depth truly shines through their bench. They’re not just substitutes; they’re “finishers,” a term favored by former England rugby union manager Eddie Jones, and one that Southgate has embraced.

Watkins and Palmer led the charge, followed by Conor Gallagher, who became a one-man pressing machine during extra time against Slovakia. Ezri Konsa was then brought on to help secure the result. Ebe Eze injected some energy, while Jarrod Bowen and Gordon provided width. Trent Alexander-Arnold stepped up to take a penalty against Switzerland.

Southgate’s success lies in maintaining a cohesive and engaged group throughout the past month, with nearly all 26 players contributing significantly to their achievements Thập Cẩm TV.

The decisive goal showed the team’s solid spirit

Bellingham’s breathtaking bicycle kick. Saka’s sensational stunner. And now Watkins’ remarkable game-winner. England has shown a knack for seizing victory in the dying moments. This squad appears exhausted, having endured a grueling season. Yet, their resilience and mental fortitude have propelled them forward. A staunch defense, a final surge in attack. Now, they must summon their strength for one more effort…

Another objective achieved on the right flank, though Shaw’s presence highlights the team’s ongoing constraints

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Kane’s decisive header in extra time against Slovakia originated from a pinpoint pass by Eze through the center, deftly redirected by Toney towards goal. Notably, every non-set-piece goal scored by England in the Euros has been orchestrated from the right flank. Watkins’ match-winning goal was a testament to this trend.

Despite the introduction of left-footer Luke Shaw for Kieran Trippier at halftime, England continued to struggle in generating offensive momentum down the left side. This imbalance renders their attacking approach predictable, a vulnerability Spain is likely aware of heading into their next encounter.

However, they carry momentum and confidence heading into the final…

Watkins took charge of the celebrations post-match, urged forward by his teammates to lead the crowd in their anthem about their journey to Berlin. With England heading to the capital fueled by momentum and confidence from his decisive late goal, the question remains: will that be sufficient to overcome the higher-rated Spain?

Watkins has demonstrated that this England team should never be underestimated, not even with just one second remaining…

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