On July 6, 2024, England advanced to the Euro 2024 semi-finals after defeating Switzerland in a tense match that ended 1-1 after extra time, with England winning 5-3 on penalties. They will face the Netherlands, who overcame Turkey 2-1 in a match with political undertones.
Similar to their round of 16 match against Slovakia, where they came from behind, the English found themselves trailing before Bukayo Saka equalized in the 80th minute. The game, lacking clear chances, proceeded at a slow pace, and Switzerland took the lead through Monaco’s striker Breel Embolo in the 75th minute.
In extra time, Yann Sommer made key saves against Declan Rice (95th minute) and Jude Bellingham (102nd minute), while Jordan Pickford became the hero of the night for England by saving Manuel Akanji’s poorly taken penalty.
England converted all their penalties, with Trent Alexander-Arnold sealing their spot in the semi-finals in Dortmund on Wednesday.
With this victory, Jude Bellingham, who has scored two goals in Euro 2024, strengthens his claim for the next Ballon d’Or. Having won La Liga and the Champions League with Real Madrid, Bellingham stands a good chance if England clinches a major trophy.
Keep an eye on Brazil’s Vinicius at the Copa America to better assess Bellingham’s Ballon d’Or prospects. Brazil faces Uruguay on the night of July 6-7, 2024, intensifying the rivalry between Vinicius and Bellingham.
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