England and Netherlands advance to Euro semi-finals

England secured their place in the semi-finals of the European Championship with a narrow victory over Switzerland, winning 5-4 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in Dortmund. The match, marked by its lack of flair from the English side, ended with Trent Alexander-Arnold scoring the decisive penalty. As Alexander-Arnold's penalty hit the top corner, he sprinted to embrace goalkeeper Jordan Pickford. England's players and staff celebrated wildly, while fans sang "Sweet Caroline." Despite the lack of convincing performances, England managed to edge past Switzerland to set up a potential clash with the Netherlands in the next round.

Goals in quick succession

Switzerland took the lead in the 75th minute through Breel Embolo, only for Bukayo Saka to equalize five minutes later. The game moved to penalties, where England held their nerve better, with Manuel Akanji missing for Switzerland. England's lackluster performances throughout the tournament continued, yet they managed to survive and advance. They now prepare for a semi-final against the Netherlands in Dortmund on Wednesday.

Resilient Netherlands get late win over Turkey

The Netherlands reached the semi-finals of the European Championship for the first time since 2004, defeating Turkey 2-1 in Berlin. The win, secured in the final quarter of the match, sent Dutch fans into raptures. The game saw Turkey take an early lead through a header from Samet Akaydin. The Netherlands struggled initially but gradually turned the game around, with Stefan de Vrij equalizing and a late own goal from Mert Müldür sealing the victory.

A dramatic turnaround

After falling behind in the first half, the Netherlands saw Turkey hit the post early in the second half. However, substitute Wout Weghorst's introduction brought new energy, and his efforts led to a corner from which De Vrij scored the equalizer. With renewed confidence, the Netherlands pressed on, and a Dumfries cross forced Müldür into an own goal, giving the Dutch a 2-1 lead. In the closing stages, the Dutch defense, led by Micky van de Ven and goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen, held firm to secure the win.

Atmosphere and fan support

The atmosphere in Berlin's Olympiastadion was electric, with Turkish fans creating a formidable noise after their team's goal. However, Dutch fans responded with equal fervor after De Vrij's equalizer, ultimately celebrating a hard-fought victory with a jubilant group dance. The Netherlands now face England in the semi-finals, with both teams looking to secure a place in the final. The match promises to be a thrilling encounter, with both sides having shown resilience and determination to reach this stage of the tournament.

Semi-final

Netherlands vs England is going to be a huge final. Both teams are happy to be on this side of the draw and feel a place in the final is possible. Fans of both countries are already booking their Netherlands vs. England tickets and Euro 2024 final tickets via our online football tickets marketplace.