In the midst of the mega party in north-west London, which was the epicenter of an epic cheer throughout the country, Southgate even had to voice admonishing words. “This is a dangerous moment for us. The feeling of success, the mood in the country – but we mustn’t let up,” said the 50-year-old.
After 55 years without a win against Germany in knockout games at major tournaments, the English black streak is now over. But the venerable motherland of football wants more. “We have never been in a European Championship final. You still have the chance to achieve something very special,” said Southgate. And this chance is bigger than it has been in a long time. There are several reasons why it could really work for the 1966 world champion with a second big title this time.
On the one hand there is the tournament tree, which really means well with the “Three Lions”. In the quarter-finals on Saturday (9 p.m.) in Rome, the English will now face the Ukraine – a feasible opponent. Denmark or the Czech Republic would wait in the semifinals. This hurdle would not be insurmountable either, although the most recent duel in the Nations League last autumn went to Denmark. England prevailed 1-0 against the Czech Republic in the last group game at the EM. In addition, the semi-finals and finals would again take place in front of their own audience at Wembley.
Second, Southgate’s pragmatic approach to enforcing stable defenses has so far proven its worth. As the only team in the tournament, England have not yet conceded a goal. The result of the game is supported by an enthusiastic, two-way midfield headed by the powerhouse Kalvin Phillips and Declan Rice. In the central defense there are two towers with Harry Maguire and John Stones, goalkeeper Jordan Pickford is always there in an emergency.
Impressive efficiency
City attacker Raheem Sterling, who scored his third goal against Germany, was one of the best players in the European Championship so far. In addition, Harry Kane’s first tournament goal could have a signal effect. “I’m a striker, an attacker, sometimes it takes two days, sometimes five – but you know you will score again,” said Tottenham goalgetter. In addition, the English have a few people up their sleeves. The youngsters Jadon Sancho, Phil Foden or Marcus Rashford are still waiting for their big moment.
One shouldn’t overdo it with the euphoria, but also said Maguire, who was elected man of the game against Germany. “The tournament tree means nothing at all. It has been seen in many games in this tournament that you get hurt if you don’t play at your level,” said the Manchester United captain. “Hopefully we will be here again in the semifinals and the finals”, emphasized Kane and demanded further full commitment. “We can’t stop now.”
I have been working in the news industry for over 6 years, first as a reporter and now as an editor. I have covered politics extensively, and my work has appeared in major newspapers and online news outlets around the world. In addition to my writing, I also contribute regularly to 24 Hours World.
