Football: England into semi-finals – win on penalties

There was no big show as England and Switzerland battled for a semi-final spot. Instead, the match was devoid of serious scoring chances, with neither team succeeding.

But in the 75th minute Switzerland scored. Dan Ndoye passed the ball to Breel Embolo who raced forward to make it 1-0.

A cold shower for England. But the goal opened up the picture of the game, especially after England's triple change. Five minutes after the late goal, Bukayo Saka broke away from the edge of the goal and scored the equaliser through the far post.

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I decided the punishment

The pace of the match increased, but the match ended in a draw and then penalty kicks.

In the penalty shootout, Manuel Akanji missed Switzerland's first penalty. Saka and everyone else scored, meaning England won and now qualify for the semi-finals. At EC 2020, Saka was made a huge scapegoat when he missed his penalty in the final against Italy – now he's the hero of the match instead.

– It was one of the best games, it was special. The last time we went to penalties in the European Championship, we know what happened. Coming back from something like that was tough and I used it to strengthen myself, Saka says.

Union captain Gareth Southgate on Saka:

– He's very brave. He's one of our best players, so there was no question about him not taking a penalty.

In the semi-finals, England will face the Netherlands.

European Championship

England

5 – 3

1-1 (Full time)

Switzerland

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