JORDAN PICKFORD shared an amazing moment with Switzerland sub Xherdan Shaqiri in extra time – before becoming England’s shootout hero.
The Three Lions drew 1-1 before reaching the Euro 2024 semi-finals 5-3 on spot-kicks – with keeper Pickford the centre of attention late on in dramatically contrasting ways.
With the Three Lions straining for a winner late in the added half-hour, ex-Liverpool midfielder Shaqiri came close at the other end with an audacious effort.
The ex-Liverpool midfielder tried to score direct from a corner… and saw it smash against the bar.
Pickford was among those watching anxiously as the ball flashed across – inches away from a probable clincher.
But despite the high tension, the Everton ace reacted coolly – and with an unexpected gesture.
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Pickford turned to the former Stoke playmaker… and gave him the thumbs-up!
The tight contest soon ended with a 1-1 draw – meaning a shootout.
And it was Pickford who conjured the key moment – from the very first spot-kick.
He dived to keep out Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji’s low effort to the left corner.
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But England’s clinical efforts from 12 yards were just as impressive.
And sub Trent Alexander-Arnold, who slotted his own penalty home with a swagger, reckoned it was down to pre-match preparation.
He told the BBC: “It is what we have practiced.
“When the gaffer said I was taking one, I enjoy it and I practice it – I knew I had to just execute it.
“All five penalties from us were great.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
