Watkins Honours Promise With Goal Celebration In England's Euro 2024 Semi-final Win

Ollie Watkins dedicated his celebration in England's semi-final win over the Netherlands to Lewis Dunk and Dean Henderson. Watkins scored late, securing England's place in the Euro 2024 final against Spain on Sunday. The Three Lions came back from Xavi Simons' opener, with Harry Kane equalising from the penalty spot after being fouled by Denzel Dumfries.

Watkins netted only the second-ever 90th-minute winning goal in a European Championship knockout tie, causing wild celebrations in Dortmund. After squeezing the ball past Bart Verbruggen, Watkins ran towards the England bench to celebrate his fourth and most crucial international goal. Dunk and Henderson, who haven't played a minute in Germany, were among the first to embrace him.

Watkins' strike made him England's new hero on the international stage. Fellow substitute Cole Palmer also played a crucial role in the winner. Both were introduced in the 80th minute and made an immediate impact. Palmer's assist for Watkins marked the first time two substitutes combined for a goal for England in a major tournament knockout stage.

"I did make a promise to Deano and Dunky that if I scored, I would run over and celebrate with them," Watkins said on the latest episode of Lions' Den. "Sometimes you can feel left out because you're not on the pitch making that impact. So me celebrating with them was special."

The Aston Villa striker expressed confidence about his and Palmer's impact, having worked closely together in training. "You've got to have that belief when you're going on the pitch that you're going to bring something to the team," Watkins said. "When I got the ball there, I knew I had to be selfish and shoot because I might not get another opportunity."

Watkins' celebration was a moment of unity as teammates joined him on the pitch. "It was nice that they all jumped on the pitch and could be part of it," he added. "A moment you are going to see again and again."

A moment you are going to see again and again and again.

Ollie Watkins, you absolute HERO! pic.twitter.com/pkdvUz00LC

— England (@England) July 10, 2024

Watkins' promise to celebrate with Dunk and Henderson highlights his sense of camaraderie within the team. Despite not playing, Dunk and Henderson felt included in this significant moment.

This victory sets up an exciting final against Spain, where England will aim to build on their momentum from this dramatic win.