Watkins comes on to help England reach the Euro 2024 final, what does Coach Southgate say?

Coach Gareth Southgate’s decision to bring Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer onto the pitch proved effective as the duo secured the decisive goal, propelling England to the Euro 2024 final.

England’s head coach, Gareth Southgate, shared his thoughts on his decision to introduce Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer, which led to the decisive goal that helped England defeat the Netherlands 2-1 in the semi-final, marking their second appearance in a Euro 2024 final.

“I thought we needed more personnel in the attack. Harry Kane had an issue after being fouled in the box in the first half. You know, Ollie Watkins can help us press better, and he also makes runs that cause a lot of trouble for the opposing defenders. That magical moment came, and we were all delighted,” Southgate said at the post-match press conference after the England-Netherlands match.

The 1970-born coach also reflected on the decisive factor for England in this confrontation.

The England team had one of their best matches at Euro 2024 against the Netherlands. Shedding their previously pragmatic, rugged, and somewhat dull image, England played with a fast-paced style, displaying coordinated and skillful teamwork that dominated the Netherlands—a team known for its aggressive attacking play.

Immediately after Harry Kane’s equalizing penalty, Gareth Southgate’s squad maintained control and applied intense pressure, forcing Ronald Koeman’s team to play defensively and resort to fouling to stop the “Three Lions.”

Just when it seemed the match would go into extra time, a combination between substitutes Cole Palmer and Ollie Watkins led to a precious goal, sealing a 2-1 victory and securing England’s second consecutive Euro final appearance.

England’s opponent in the championship match on the early morning of July 14 (UK time) will be Spain, who defeated France with the same 2-1 score.