England edged past Switzerland in a tense Euro 2024 quarter-final, winning 5-3 on penalties after a 1-1 draw. Bukayo Saka's equalizer and Jordan Pickford's crucial saves led to a dramatic victory, securing a semi-final spot for Gareth Southgate's team.
England secured their place in the Euro 2024 semi-finals with a dramatic 5-3 penalty shootout victory over Switzerland after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time. The match, held in Dusseldorf, saw a resilient English side overcome a formidable Swiss team that had eliminated Italy in the previous round.
The game was tightly contested, with few clear chances in the first half. Switzerland took the lead in the 75th minute when Breel Embolo capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting home at the far post. England responded swiftly, with Bukayo Saka equalizing shortly after with a brilliant left-footed strike.
Extra time saw both teams cautious, but Switzerland nearly snatched victory when Xherdan Shaqiri's corner hit the woodwork and Silvan Widmer's follow-up went over the bar.
Jordan Pickford set the tone for the shootout by saving Manuel Akanji's penalty. England's outfield players were flawless from the spot, with Trent Alexander-Arnold scoring the decisive kick. The victory was a testament to England's improved composure and tactical discipline under Gareth Southgate, who has now led the team to three major tournament semi-finals in his tenure.
England will face either the Netherlands or Turkey in the semi-finals, looking to continue their quest for a first European Championship title.
