England reach Euro 2024 semis on penalties

England needed penalties to overcome Switzerland after a dramatic 1-1 draw in the Euro 2024 quarterfinals.

Gareth Southgate’s team, previously saved by a late equaliser against Slovakia, fell behind again with 15 minutes left when Breel Embolo scored for Switzerland.

However, England wouldn’t go down without a fight. Bukayo Saka answered with a brilliant goal just five minutes later. The game went to penalties after extra time, where goalkeeper Jordan Pickford saved the first Swiss attempt.

England then converted all their penalties through Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Saka, and Ivan Toney. Substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold stepped up to slam home the winning penalty, sending England to the semi-finals amidst a roar from their supporters.

Southgate reached a milestone 100th game in charge, but it was a tense affair that could have gone the other way. England’s new three-at-the-back formation provided more stability, but their attacking creativity remained a concern. Similar to the Slovakia game, it took a late goal from Saka, their first shot on target, to force a draw.

Despite the unconvincing performance, England secured the win. However, questions linger about their ability to create chances consistently. Southgate has a challenge to address before their next match against either Netherlands or Turkey in the semi-finals.