Watch England vs Switzerland full match replay and highlight. This is a match of UEFA Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals.
Kick off: 16:00 GMT Saturday Jul 6, 2024.
Referee: Daniele Orsato, Italy.
Venue: Düsseldorf Arena, Düsseldorf.
England Triumphs Over Switzerland in Euro 2024 Quarter-Finals Thriller
In a dramatic encounter, England kept their Euro 2024 hopes alive by coming from behind to beat Switzerland on penalties, marking Gareth Southgate’s 100th match as national team manager with a memorable victory. This win propels the Three Lions into their third major semi-final under Southgate’s leadership.
Match Overview
Southgate made significant tactical changes, aligning England’s formation to match Switzerland’s five-at-the-back system. While this brought more control after a shaky start, both teams struggled to create clear chances in the first half. The supporters in Düsseldorf were left frustrated as the first half ended goalless, highlighted only by Kobbie Mainoo’s effort being brilliantly blocked by Granit Xhaka just before halftime.
Second Half Action
Switzerland emerged with greater attacking intent after the break, with Breel Embolo posing a constant threat. Despite their improvement, Embolo’s efforts were comfortably saved by Jordan Pickford. As England retreated deeper, Switzerland capitalized on their defensive posture. Embolo finally broke the deadlock, tapping in from close range after Dan Ndoye’s cross was deflected into his path by John Stones with 15 minutes remaining.
England’s Resurgence
Facing elimination, Southgate made crucial substitutions. However, it was starter Bukayo Saka who leveled the score, cutting in from the right to curl a stunning shot into the far corner, equalizing with just 10 minutes left. Despite their momentum, England couldn’t secure a winner in regulation time, leading to their second consecutive extra-time encounter.
Extra-Time Drama
England sought an early breakthrough in extra time, with Declan Rice’s long-range shot forcing a fine save from Yann Sommer. Switzerland’s Xherdan Shaqiri, coming off the bench, nearly clinched victory with a corner that struck the woodwork. Zeki Amdouni and Silvan Widmer also threatened, but England’s defense held firm, setting the stage for a penalty shootout.
Penalty Shootout
In the shootout, Cole Palmer confidently converted the opening spot-kick for England, and Pickford’s save from Manuel Akanji gave them an early advantage. England maintained their composure, flawlessly converting their penalties, with Trent Alexander-Arnold sealing the victory to send the Three Lions into the semi-finals in Dortmund.
Key Takeaways
- Tactical Adaptation: Southgate’s formation change helped England control the game after a nervy start.
- Resilience and Composure: England’s ability to come from behind and their flawless penalty performance highlighted their resilience.
- Defensive Solidity: Despite conceding, England’s defense held firm in crucial moments, particularly in extra time and the shootout.
Match Highlights
- Bukayo Saka’s Equalizer: A stunning goal that reignited England’s hopes.
- Declan Rice’s Long-Range Effort: A near-spectacular goal in extra time.
- Shaqiri’s Corner Hit the Woodwork: A dramatic moment that almost ended England’s run.
England now prepares for a challenging semi-final in Dortmund on Wednesday, as they aim to continue their quest for European glory.
