England Showcases Resilience With Euro 2024 Quarter-Final Win Against Switzerland

Gareth Southgate emphasised that Euro 2024 is not solely about England's performance, praising the team's character in their penalty shoot-out win over Switzerland. Despite a shaky display in Dusseldorf, England managed to equalise through Bukayo Saka after Breel Embolo's 75th-minute goal on Saturday.

England's victory came after Jordan Pickford saved Switzerland’s first penalty from Manuel Akanji, with Trent Alexander-Arnold securing the win. This match marked Southgate's 100th game as manager of the senior side. Reflecting on the game, Southgate said on BBC One, "I thought the players were brilliant, it is the best we have played... it isn’t just about playing well."

England has a history of penalty shoot-outs at major tournaments, having lost more than any other nation across the World Cup and Euros (seven). However, they converted all five attempts in this edition of UEFA’s top tournament. Southgate noted the importance of tactical precision and praised his team’s resilience.

Southgate highlighted Bukayo Saka’s bravery in taking a penalty despite his miss in the Euro 2020 final against Italy. "It was so brave from Bukayo," Southgate said. "He is one of our best and we were never in question he would take one."

The manager also mentioned that England had to be tactically spot-on to secure their place in the semi-finals. "We are in a third semi-final and it says a lot about the whole group," he added. England has now played 11 knockout matches at the European Championship since Euro 1996, with eight going to extra-time.

Harry Kane, who had a quiet game before being substituted during extra time, expressed confidence in his teammates' abilities. "Another tough game and first of all great resilience from the lads to turn it up again," Kane told BBC One.

Kane's Confidence in Teammates

Kane praised Saka’s finish and felt prepared for penalties despite not being on the pitch. "Penalties are penalties, but I felt prepared... I was on the side, but I felt comfortable in the lads," he said. He also noted that this year’s team has proven penalty takers with more experience.

Southgate acknowledged that while they have done extensive work on penalties, it ultimately comes down to player execution. "In the end, the players have to do it and deliver," he stated. England scored every single one of their penalties in this shoot-out (5/5), replicating their success against Spain at Euro 1996 (4/4).

The victory over Switzerland showcased England's ability to handle pressure situations effectively. The team's performance underlines their growth and readiness for upcoming challenges as they advance further into Euro 2024.