England’s manager, Gareth Southgate, stands at the cusp of redemption, poised to lead his team into history with a potential victory in the Euro 2024 final. Despite facing criticism and hostility, Southgate’s tactical decisions have brought England to the brink of glory.
The hostile reception Southgate faced from fans after the lackluster draw against Slovenia in Cologne now seems a distant memory. The ecstatic celebrations that erupted following Ollie Watkins’ last-minute goal, which secured a win over the Netherlands and a spot in Sunday’s final against Spain in Berlin, have overshadowed past discontent.
Throughout the tournament, England has had moments of fortune, but Southgate’s bold choices have been key. His substitutions, though controversial, ultimately led to a dramatic victory on a stormy night in Dortmund, bringing England within reach of ending their long “years of hurt” since the 1966 World Cup triumph under Sir Alf Ramsey.
Dramatic win over the Netherlands
The semi-final against the Netherlands was tense, with the score tied at 1-1 and extra time looming. Southgate’s substitutions, particularly the removal of captain Harry Kane and creative force Phil Foden, raised eyebrows. However, the introduction of Watkins and Cole Palmer proved decisive.
With the clock nearing 90 minutes, Palmer and Watkins combined brilliantly. Palmer’s incisive pass allowed Watkins to turn past Dutch defender Stefan de Vrij and score, igniting wild celebrations among the England squad. The Dutch team, meanwhile, was left stunned, unable to respond in the closing minutes.
Despite Ronald Koeman’s strategic adjustments, including the introduction of Joey Veerman and Wout Weghorst, it was Southgate’s changes that clinched the victory. The match began under ominous skies and in humid conditions, with Xavi Simons giving the Netherlands an early lead. England’s response was swift, though the penalty that allowed Kane to equalize was contentious. England dominated the first half, with Foden narrowly missing twice, before a gritty second half led to the dramatic finale.
Southgate’s legacy and England’s ambition
Southgate has often faced skepticism from some England supporters, but his tenure has seen significant achievements: a World Cup semi-final in 2018, a Euro 2020 final, a World Cup quarter-final in 2022, and now a second consecutive Euros final, their first on foreign soil.
The question remains whether Southgate can lead England to their first major tournament win since 1966. His approach has been scrutinized, yet his results speak volumes. The current campaign has seen Southgate grow alongside his team, overcoming earlier criticisms and showing resilience.
As England prepares for the final against Spain, Southgate exudes confidence, feeling a weight lifted by their progression. The upcoming match in Berlin offers a chance to end England’s 58-year wait for a major trophy. If successful, Southgate will have silenced his doubters and cemented his legacy as the manager who finally ended England’s long quest for glory.
