The day of reckoning is here as England take on the Netherlands in their Euro 2024 semi-final clash at 8pm.
A spot in the final against Spain is at stake with Gareth Southgate’s side just two games away from bringing football home and ending 58 years of hurt.
It’s not been an easy road to get here, with an underwhelming group stage followed by a narrow comeback win over Slovakia, but the Three Lions were much improved in their quarter-final win over Switzerland – even if they needed penalties to get the job done.
The Netherlands will provide their trickiest test to date, with Ronald Koeman’s side looking formidable in their last two matches, and England haven’t defeated the Orange Army in a competitive fixture since 1996.
Southgate is expected to make at least one change to his starting XI with Marc Guehi reclaiming his spot in defence after returning from suspension, but the manager has been urged to take a chance on Luke Shaw with the left-back insisting he is fit and ready to start.
Follow all the action here:
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Tonight’s opponents – The Netherlands
The Netherlands will provide England with their toughest test of Euro 2024 so far.
Ronald Koeman’s team may have started the tournament slowly but they’ve gained momentum thanks in large part to their scintillating attack, led by Cody Gakpo.
Here’s everything you need to know about the Oranje Army – and how they can be stopped.
Gareth Southgate – England’s greatest manager?
Let’s be honest, it hasn’t been the easiest ride to the semi-finals for England.
A narrow win against Serbia was followed by underwhelming draws with Denmark and Slovenia before a Jude Bellingham stunner prevented a humiliating exit to Slovakia in the last 16.
There was was an improved performance in the quarter-finals against Switzerland but penalties were still needed to get the job done. But despite all the criticism, Gareth Southgate’s impact on the Three Lions – and England as a whole – should be celebrated.
What has Gareth Southgate said ahead of the match?
Welcome… England’s semi-final awaits!
Good afternoon everyone and welcome to Metro’s live coverage of England’s huge semi-final clash against the Netherlands. Stay here to keep up to date with all the latest news and updates.
There’s a few hours until kick-off but we already have a good idea of how Gareth Southgate will line his side up. Check out the Three Lions XI here.