FULL TIME
England [2-1] Netherlands
MATCH PREVIEW & MORE INFO
England possible starting lineup: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Trippier; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
Netherlands possible starting lineup: Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake; Schouten, Reijnders; Malen, Simons, Gakpo; Depay
Match Preview
England's Nervous Journey to the Semi-Finals
After nervously edging through the first two knockout rounds, England now aim to reach successive European Championship finals, facing the Netherlands in Wednesday's semi-final in Dortmund. The Three Lions have become a regular presence in the later stages of major tournaments under Gareth Southgate, but their journey to this point has been far from smooth. In the quarter-finals, they narrowly defeated Switzerland, with Bukayo Saka forcing extra time and a penalty shootout after a late equalizer. England's composure from the spot, coupled with Jordan Pickford's crucial save, ensured their progression.
England's Quest for Silverware
Despite their recent successes, England's quest for a major trophy continues. The team has consistently reached the semi-finals and finals of major tournaments, yet they have fallen short of winning silverware. Southgate's squad, packed with attacking talent, has yet to find the rhythm or inspire full confidence among fans. As they prepare for their fourth European Championship semi-final, England's focus remains on securing their place in the final and aiming for victory on Sunday.
Historical Encounters with the Netherlands
England faces a familiar foe in the Netherlands, with a history of significant encounters between the two teams. The Oranje triumphed 3-1 en route to their Euro '88 victory, and a goalless draw at the 1990 World Cup was followed by a memorable 4-1 win for England in 1996. However, England has only won one of their last nine meetings with the Netherlands. The most recent encounter in a semi-final saw the Dutch win 3-1 after extra time in the UEFA Nations League, with Southgate and Ronald Koeman both managing their respective sides.
Netherlands' Road to the Semi-Finals
The Netherlands, under Ronald Koeman, reached their first Euro semi-final since 2004 with a comeback victory against Turkey. Trailing by a goal, Stefan de Vrij equalized, and Cody Gakpo's influence forced an own goal, securing their place in the final four. The Dutch have navigated through a challenging draw, having emerged from Group D in third place. Their journey included a win over Poland, a draw with France, and a loss to Austria, followed by a 3-0 victory over Romania in the last 16.
Dutch Pursuit of a Second European Title
Seeking their second European title, the Netherlands face a significant challenge in overcoming their historical record in semi-finals. With only one win from five previous attempts, the pressure is on Koeman's squad to perform. Led by captain Virgil van Dijk, the team aims to build on their recent successes and reach the final, setting up a showdown with new favorites Spain.
The High-Stakes Semi-Final Clash
As England and the Netherlands prepare for their high-stakes showdown, both teams carry the weight of history and the hopes of their nations. England's determined but inconsistent run contrasts with the Netherlands' resilient journey, setting the stage for a thrilling contest in Dortmund. Fans can expect a fierce battle as both sides vie for a place in the final and the chance to lift the coveted European Championship trophy.