Euro 2024 semifinals: England edges out Switzerland in penalty shootout

England’s long wait for a major tournament victory remains alive, as they triumphed over Switzerland 5-3 in a penalty shootout to secure a place in the Euro 2024 semifinals. The intense match concluded with a 1-1 draw after 120 minutes, but the Three Lions prevailed thanks to heroics in the shootout.
Goalkeeper Jordan Pickford emerged as the hero for England, saving Switzerland's first penalty from Manuel Akanji. England’s penalty takers, including Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, were flawless, propelling the team to a semifinal clash against either Turkey or the Netherlands in Dortmund.

Late Drama and Equaliser

England, which had already needed a last-gasp equaliser from Bellingham to overcome Slovakia in the previous round, found themselves on the brink of elimination once again. The match, which was largely uneventful for the first 75 minutes, sprang to life when Breel Embolo put Switzerland ahead. Saka quickly responded with a stunning strike from outside the box, levelling the score with England’s first shot on target.

Tactical Adjustments and Key Performances

In his 100th match as England manager, Gareth Southgate made crucial tactical changes, including starting Ezri Konsa for his first competitive international appearance. Despite calls for extensive personnel changes, Southgate’s decision to keep Saka on the right proved pivotal. Saka was England’s most dynamic player in the first half, consistently outmanoeuvring Switzerland's Michel Aebischer and creating scoring opportunities.

Trailing late in the match, Southgate introduced Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze, and Luke Shaw, who made an immediate impact. Saka’s goal five minutes later, cutting inside and scoring off the far post, reignited England’s hopes. Switzerland’s Yann Sommer made a crucial save to deny Declan Rice in extra time, while Harry Kane’s injury added to the drama.

Switzerland's Close Calls

Switzerland nearly snatched victory in the second half of extra time, with Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner hitting the woodwork and Pickford making a critical save from Zeki Amdouni. However, England’s perfect penalty performance saw them through, with Saka redeeming himself after his miss in the Euro 2020 final.