Euro 2024

FANS crowned Jordan Pickford the king of shootout s***housery as England sneaked into the Euro 2024 semi-finals.Pickford made the only penalty save needed as the Three Lions sunk Switzerland 5-3 on spot-kicks following a 1-1 draw.Jordan Pickford had his own way of putting Manuel Akanji offSwiss defender Akanji was the only player to miss in the shootoutUnless you include his wild gesture, Pickford kept his cool throughoutBut there was so much more to the keeper’s crucial intervention than diving to keep out Manuel Akanji’s low effort.As Akanji prepared to take the first penalty of the shootout, viewers spotted Pickford staring at the Manchester City defender with his eyes and mouth wide open.Many might think he looked more like an over-acting extra in a hammy horror movie than an international sporting hero.But Pickford’s tactics could well have worked – because Akanji’s mediocre attempt was the worst kick of the shootout.READ MORE ON EURO 2024However, some viewers also reckon his water bottle might have been even more important!The container had inside info on Switzerland’s penalty takers down the side, including this accurate titbit: “Akanji, dive left.”But whatever the reasons for the save, England fans believe his acrobatics were timed perfectly – and not just because of the Euros.Coming as it did, a day after Keir Starmer became Prime Minister, one viewer claimed: “The Rt Hon Jordan Pickford MP @JPickford1 has been appointed Secretary of State for Defence @DefenceHQ.”Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERS4 – Jordan Pickford has saved four of the 14 penalties he has faced in shootouts at major tournaments, twice as many as all other England goalkeepers combined saved between 1990 and 2012 (2 out of 36). Hero. pic.twitter.com/vspFL4aZLG— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) July 6, 2024

England player ratings: Saka the saviour for Three Lions but subbed Kane stuggles in penalties thriller vs SwitzerlandBUKAYO SAKA showed huge courage as he dug England out of a hole and through on penalties against Switzerland, writes Tom Barclay.The Three Lions looked to be going out when Breel Embolo had put Swiss ahead on 75 minutes.But Arsenal star Saka dragged England back into five minutes later with a stunning effort off the post.To penalties it went – just like it did between these two sides five years ago in the Nations League.And just like back then, Jordan Pickford made a save – repelling the Swiss’s first effort from Manuel Akanji.England were perfect from then on, with Cole Palmer, Jude Bellignam, Saka, Ivan Toney and finally Trent Alexander-Arnold sending the Three Lions into the semi-final.Here’s how the players rated…Jordan Pickford: 7Had his heart in his mouth when Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner deep into extra-time hit the post and bar, but then pulled off a smart stop to take it to penalties.Saved Manuel Akanji’s first spot-kick by diving low to his left.Kyle Walker: 6Spent most of the game on the right side of a three which meant he could not get forward. Embolo got in front of him for Switzerland’s opener. Won the toss so the penalties were taken in front of the England fans.John Stones: 6Crisper passing in the first half, much better than his sloppy Slovakia display, but his deflection on Dan Ndoye’s cross diverted it to Embolo.Ezri Konsa: 6Was decent in the first half of his maiden start at a major tournament but, like the rest of the team, went into his shell after the break.Kieran Trippier: 6Had been expected to play right wing-back but was once again on the left.Solid defensively but, as has been the case throughout the tournament, offered little going forward on his unnatural side.Declan Rice: 7Anticipated, and subsequently, won a number of 50-50s at the base of England’s midfield.It was his decoy run that opened up the space for Saka to find the corner, before his 25-yard wonderstrike was denied by a flying Yann Sommer save in extra-time.Kobbie Mainoo: 6Some decent drives forward from midfield. Looked as if he would fire home an opener just before the break afterBukayo Saka’s nice cutback, but was denied by Granit Xhaka’s excellent block.Bukayo Saka: 8 and STAR MANDid not play at left wing-back as expected, but was England’s most dangerous attacking player throughout – and none more so when he came to the rescue with his 80th-minute leveller which flew in off the post.Showed huge courage in the shoot-out as he stroked home his penalty beautifully, three years on from missing in the last Euros final.Jude Bellingham: 6Produced a few graceful dribbles which showcased his quality in the first half but pretty quiet.Looked knackered but showed big cojones with his low penalty.Phil Foden: 6Admitted before the game that his central role would suit him better and it seemed to in the first 20 minutes, but faded after that.Harry Kane: 4This system just does not suit him. He needs runners, but does not look like he is going to get them.Just could not get into the game and was subbed out of it in extra-time, seconds after he was sent crashing into his manager on the touchline.SUBSCole Palmer (for Konsa, 78): 7One of three players to come on in reaction to Switzerland’s opener – why did it take so long, Gareth? Dispatched England’s first spot-kick with aplomb.Luke Shaw (for Trippier, 78): 6First minutes of football since February, slotting in on the left side of back three as Southgate went for broke.Eberechi Eze (for Mainoo, 78): 6Carved out a nice bit of space for himself in the dying moments but fired wide.Ivan Toney (For Kane, 109): 7It was no surprise to see him come with the prospect of penalties on the horizon – what was more of a shock was that it was for spot-kick maestro Kane. Was knocked over in the box right at the end of extra-time, but nothing was given. Confident penalty.Trent Alexander-Arnold (for Foden, 115): 7Thrown on late into extra-time. Belted home his spot-kick to win it.Gareth Southgate: 4The adjusted back three system worked to a certain extent, but still the approach looked to be to keep it tight and rely on a moment of magic.Saka provided that for the leveller, but given the talent at his disposal, it seemed very limited.Took an age to make a change – prompted only by Switzerland going ahead. But got his subs right when it came to the penalty shoot-out.Another fan felt Pickford’s antics are worth “a goal start” in shootouts.The 30-year-old himself had gone into the match suggesting England might have an advantage over Switzerland, thanks to beating them 6-5 on penalties five years ago.England fans at Boxpark go wild as Trent scores winning pen to put Three Lions into Semi finalsPickford’s bottle clearly showed “Akanji – Dive Left”Credit: GettyHe said before kick-off: “History of winning major tournaments shows that you’ve got to go into extra time, maybe win a penalty shoot-out.“It was the Nations League for third place and the bronze medal but you’ve got to learn from them experiences and take them experiences into major tournaments.“It was a good feeling back then to get them experiences under our belt.”In fact, Pickford had also issued what might now be seen as an ominous warning for the Swiss.He said: “I enjoy the pressure. You’re playing on the biggest stage in football and I’m loving it.”I know we needed penalties… but England showed vs Switzerland why they can WIN Euro 2024, says Jack WilshereIT TOOK penalties to put us through but, before the drama, England showed us why they have the ingredients to do something special, writes Jack Wilshere.It was a win by the narrowest of margins but this was overall our best performance of Euro 2024.If we can build on the progress we made, especially in the first half, we could WIN the tournament.It was not a complete display. There were nervy moments and waiting so long to make changes could have cost us.But we saw what a good team England can be if they do the right things and put players in the right positions.The first half was England’s best since the first 45 against Serbia. Maybe even better.One of the keys to that was our press and the effect it had on Granit Xhaka.For the first time in four games we were pressing high, winning the ball back in better areas and putting Switzerland on the back foot.In previous matches, our forwards were pressing but the gaps between our lines were too big.That was leaving huge gaps for Declan Rice and whoever was partnering him to cover.This time there was better structure and organisation.There seemed to be more of a plan for when to drop into a block and when to jump out to press.Now England have the opportunity to build momentum and show why they can win this tournament.Read all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euro 2024 articles. More

THEO WALCOTT joked that he channelled his inner Gareth Southgate with his outfit for his punditry duties.The former Arsenal hitman was part of BBC’s broadcast team for the Three Lions’ quarter-final clash with Switzerland.Former England star Theo Walcott donned a similar top to Gareth Southgate for his BBC punditry dutiesCredit: ITVSouthgate’s half-zip polo shirt has been part of his go-to outfit choice for Euro 2024Credit: GETTYEx-England star Walcott appeared on our screens at half-time to give his thoughts on a drab first 45 minutes.And he joked that he’d deliberately dressed like Southgate as a show of support for the under-pressure manager.After giving some insightful analysis of the match, he said: “Look, for me, I’m very positive for today.”Look, I’ve got Gareth Southgate’s top on, I think as well.READ MORE ON ENGLAND”So I’m very into it.”England fans were quick to comment on Walcott’s punditry and his Southgate-esque outfit.One wrote on X: “Loved this guy so much; wish he did more with his career.”Another said: “Long time no see, big 14.”Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSAnd another said: “Has Theowalcott copied Gareth Southgate’s outfit.”One remarked: “Absolutely furious at Theo Walcott wearing the same top as Southgate.”BBC cameras catch moment fan taunts Jude Bellingham with cheeky gesture during England’s clash against SwitzerlandAnother chimed in: “Good to hear ex-footballers like @theowalcott not speaking in clichés but tactics and how the team will function.”He just needs to sort out his wardrobe and the man bun.”England looked to be heading out of the tournament when Breel Embolo struck in the 75th minute.Southgate changed his system… now he has to change the players if England are going to win Euros, writes Charlie WyettGARETH SOUTHGATE changed the system… but he now needs to start switching his players, writes Charlie Wyett.And that not only means for his starting XI for the semi-final in Dortmund on Wednesday, but also during the match itself.Not for the first time, Southgate nearly paid the price for his bloody-minded refusal to react with substitutions and you have to wonder if he is ever going to learn.Probably not.At least the England manager reverted to a three-man defence which served him well at the World Cup in 2018 and, on occasions, during Euro 2020.Kyle Walker, John Stones and Ezri Konsa generally did well at the back with Kieran Trippier and Bukayo Saka the wing-backs.But England still had a complete lack of balance as they had Trippier, a right-footer on the left, and Saka, a left-footer on the right.It really made no sense whatsoever. Southgate will have his reasons but it was still a case of putting a square peg into a round hole.Although Saka was England’s most dangerous player for long periods, not for the first time, playing Trippier on the left simply did not work.And this is why Luke Shaw, if fit, simply HAS to start the next game.England are through by the skin of their teeth and maybe their name is written on the trophy.Southgate is actually England’s second most successful manager behind Alf Ramsey although today, it still does not feel like it.In his eight years as manager his England team have won eight tournament knockout games, compared to six in half a century before him.This is the most sustained period of success in the history of the men’s England football team.Ultimately, though, Southgate will only be celebrated as a true success if England – despite being rubbish for most of this tournament – come home with the trophy.Read all of Charlie Wyett’s Euro 2024 articles.But just when it seemed that all hope was fading, Bukayo Saka produced a piece of magic in the form of a stunning finish from outside the box to take the match to extra time.They failed to find a way past Jan Sommer and ended up being taken to yet another dreaded penalty shootout.And Everton stopper Jordan Pickford proved to be the hero, saving Manuel Akanji’s penalty after Cole Palmer’s opener.And substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold fired the Three Lions into the semis with a thunderous final spot kick.I know we needed penalties… but England showed vs Switzerland why they can WIN Euro 2024, says Jack WilshereIT TOOK penalties to put us through but, before the drama, England showed us why they have the ingredients to do something special, writes Jack Wilshere.It was a win by the narrowest of margins but this was overall our best performance of Euro 2024.If we can build on the progress we made, especially in the first half, we could WIN the tournament.It was not a complete display. There were nervy moments and waiting so long to make changes could have cost us.But we saw what a good team England can be if they do the right things and put players in the right positions.The first half was England’s best since the first 45 against Serbia. Maybe even better.One of the keys to that was our press and the effect it had on Granit Xhaka.For the first time in four games we were pressing high, winning the ball back in better areas and putting Switzerland on the back foot.In previous matches, our forwards were pressing but the gaps between our lines were too big.That was leaving huge gaps for Declan Rice and whoever was partnering him to cover.This time there was better structure and organisation.There seemed to be more of a plan for when to drop into a block and when to jump out to press.Now England have the opportunity to build momentum and show why they can win this tournament.Read all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euro 2024 articles. More

BUKAYO SAKA showed huge courage as he dug England out of a hole and through on penalties against Switzerland.The Three Lions looked to be going out when Breel Embolo had put Swiss ahead on 75 minutes.A perfect set of penalties have sent England into the semi-finals of the EurosCredit: RexTrent Alexander-Arnold scored England’s fifthCredit: ReutersBukayo Saka was the star man and his strike proved to be crucial for EnglandCredit: ReutersBut Arsenal star Saka dragged England back into five minutes later with a stunning effort off the post.To penalties it went – just like it did between these two sides five years ago in the Nations League.And just like back then, Jordan Pickford made a save – repelling the Swiss’s first effort from Manuel Akanji.England were perfect from then on, with Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Saka, Ivan Toney and finally Trent Alexander-Arnold sending the Three Lions into the semi-final.READ MORE ON EURO 2024Here’s how the players rated…Jordan Pickford: 7Had his heart in his mouth when Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner deep into extra-time hit the post and bar, but then pulled off a smart stop to take it to penalties. Saved Manuel Akanji’s first spot-kick by diving low to his left.Pickford’s save was crucial in winning England the shootoutCredit: GettyKyle Walker: 6Spent most of the game on the right side of a three which meant he could not get forward. Embolo got in front of him for Switzerland’s opener. Won the toss so the penalties were taken in front of the England fans.Most read in Euro 2024CASINO SPECIAL – BEST CASINO WELCOME OFFERSJohn Stones: 6Crisper passing in the first half, much better than his sloppy Slovakia display, but his deflection on Dan Ndoye’s cross diverted it to Embolo.The Sun’s Charlie Wyett England review as ‘lucky’ Three Lions squeak by Switzerland in dramatic penalty shootoutEzri Konsa: 6Was decent in the first half of his maiden start at a major tournament but, like the rest of the team, went into his shell after the break.Kieran Trippier: 6Had been expected to play right wing-back but was once again on the left. Solid defensively but, as has been the case throughout the tournament, offered little going forward on his unnatural side.Declan Rice: 7Anticipated, and subsequently, won a number of 50-50s at the base of England’s midfield. It was his decoy run that opened up the space for Saka to find the corner, before his 25-yard wonderstrike was denied by a flying Yann Sommer save in extra-time.Kobbie Mainoo: 6Some decent drives forward from midfield. Looked as if he would fire home an opener just before the break after Bukayo Saka’s nice cutback, but was denied by Granit Xhaka’s excellent block.Bukayo Saka: 8 and STAR MANDid not play at left wing-back as expected, but was England’s most dangerous attacking player throughout – and none more so when he came to the rescue with his 80th-minute leveller which flew in off the post. Showed huge courage in the shoot-out as he stroked home his penalty beautifully, three years on from missing in the last Euros final.Saka’s curled strike from the edge of the area ultimately won the game for EnglandCredit: GettyI know we needed penalties… but England showed vs Switzerland why they can WIN Euro 2024, says Jack WilshereIT TOOK penalties to put us through but, before the drama, England showed us why they have the ingredients to do something special, writes Jack Wilshere.It was a win by the narrowest of margins but this was overall our best performance of Euro 2024.If we can build on the progress we made, especially in the first half, we could WIN the tournament.It was not a complete display. There were nervy moments and waiting so long to make changes could have cost us.But we saw what a good team England can be if they do the right things and put players in the right positions.The first half was England’s best since the first 45 against Serbia. Maybe even better.One of the keys to that was our press and the effect it had on Granit Xhaka.For the first time in four games we were pressing high, winning the ball back in better areas and putting Switzerland on the back foot.In previous matches, our forwards were pressing but the gaps between our lines were too big.That was leaving huge gaps for Declan Rice and whoever was partnering him to cover.This time there was better structure and organisation.There seemed to be more of a plan for when to drop into a block and when to jump out to press.Now England have the opportunity to build momentum and show why they can win this tournament.Read all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euro 2024 articles.Jude Bellingham: 6Produced a few graceful dribbles which showcased his quality in the first half but pretty quiet. Looked knackered but showed big cojones with his low penalty.Phil Foden: 6Admitted before the game that his central role would suit him better and it seemed to in the first 20 minutes, but faded after that.Harry Kane: 4This system just does not suit him. He needs runners, but does not look like he is going to get them. Just could not get into the game and was subbed out of it in extra-time, seconds after he was sent crashing into his manager on the touchline.Harry Kane was forced off after slamming into Gareth SouthgateCredit: AlamySUBSCole Palmer (for Konsa, 78): 7One of three players to come on in reaction to Switzerland’s opener – why did it take so long, Gareth? Dispatched England’s first spot-kick with aplomb.Palmer was cool from the spotCredit: ReutersLuke Shaw (for Trippier, 78): 6First minutes of football since February, slotting in on the left side of back three as Southgate went for broke.Eberechi Eze (for Mainoo, 78): 6Carved out a nice bit of space for himself in the dying moments but fired wide.Ivan Toney (For Kane, 109): 7It was no surprise to see him come with the prospect of penalties on the horizon – what was more of a shock was that it was for spot-kick maestro Kane. Was knocked over in the box right at the end of extra-time, but nothing was given. Confident penalty.Toney did not take his eye off the ball during his remarkable penaltyCredit: ReutersAlexander-Arnold’s winner sent England’s fans into ecstasyCredit: GettyTrent Alexander-Arnold (for Foden, 115): 7Thrown on late into extra-time. Belted home his spot-kick to win it.READ MORE SUN STORIESGareth Southgate: 4The adjusted back three system worked to a certain extent, but still the approach looked to be to keep it tight and rely on a moment of magic. Saka provided that for the leveller, but given the talent at his disposal, it seemed very limited. Took an age to make a change – prompted only by Switzerland going ahead. But got his subs right when it came to the penalty shoot-out.Southgate changed his system… now he has to change the players if England are going to win Euros, writes Charlie WyettGARETH SOUTHGATE changed the system… but he now needs to start switching his players, writes Charlie Wyett.And that not only means for his starting XI for the semi-final in Dortmund on Wednesday, but also during the match itself.Not for the first time, Southgate nearly paid the price for his bloody-minded refusal to react with substitutions and you have to wonder if he is ever going to learn.Probably not.At least the England manager reverted to a three-man defence which served him well at the World Cup in 2018 and, on occasions, during Euro 2020.Kyle Walker, John Stones and Ezri Konsa generally did well at the back with Kieran Trippier and Bukayo Saka the wing-backs.But England still had a complete lack of balance as they had Trippier, a right-footer on the left, and Saka, a left-footer on the right.It really made no sense whatsoever. Southgate will have his reasons but it was still a case of putting a square peg into a round hole.Although Saka was England’s most dangerous player for long periods, not for the first time, playing Trippier on the left simply did not work.And this is why Luke Shaw, if fit, simply HAS to start the next game.England are through by the skin of their teeth and maybe their name is written on the trophy.Southgate is actually England’s second most successful manager behind Alf Ramsey although today, it still does not feel like it.In his eight years as manager his England team have won eight tournament knockout games, compared to six in half a century before him.This is the most sustained period of success in the history of the men’s England football team.Ultimately, though, Southgate will only be celebrated as a true success if England – despite being rubbish for most of this tournament – come home with the trophy.Read all of Charlie Wyett’s Euro 2024 articles. More

JORDAN PICKFORD was England’s spot-kick hero as Gareth Southgate’s side won a tense shoot-out to reach the European Championship semi-final. The Everton keeper made a brilliant save from Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji from Switzerland’s first penalty.England reach the semi-finals after beating Switzerland on penaltiesCredit: RexTrent Alexander-Arnold scored the winning spot kick to send England into the last fourCredit: GettyJordan Pickford was the hero as he saved from Manuel Akanji in the penalty shoot-outCredit: APBreel Embolo gave Switzerland the lead from close rangeCredit: ReutersIt came with just 15 minutes of the 90 remainingCredit: AFPSaka scored England’s equaliser in the 80th minuteCredit: ReutersThe Arsenal forward was England’s best player in the quarter-finalCredit: GettyArsenal team-mate Aaron Ramsdale lifted Saka aloft after his goalCredit: RexThe tense match went to extra time after a hard-fought 90 minutesCredit: PAAnd all five of England’s takers – Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney and Trent Alexander-Arnold – hit the target. For Saka there was a Stuart Pearce moment as the exorcised the ghost of his miss in the last Euros final, when England were defeated by Italy.Saka had cancelled out Breel Embolo’s late opener to force extra-time and then played his part in England’s third shoot-out win in four attempts under Southgate, who celebrated his 100th match as manager in style.  Without having played particularly well since the first half of their opener againsr Serbia, England have reached a third semi-final in four tournaments, in Dortmund on Wednesday.  READ MORE ON ENGLANDEngland had been better than in their chaotic last-16 victory over Slovakia but they were still far too passive in the second half of normal time and ragged by the end of extra-time. Southgate changed to a 3-4-2-1 formation but there was still only one, enforced, alteration in personnel – Ezra Konsi into defence in place of the suspended Marc Guehi. No Palmer and no Alexander-Arnold at right-back. He is rarely radical. Playing Saka as a right wing-back and Trippier on the left seemed to negate the attacking benefits of the new system – there was no real width. Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSEngland scored all five of their penalties with hugely impressive confidenceCredit: GettyBellingham held his ears to the crowd after scoring his penaltyCredit: EPASaka dispatched his spot kick before also celebrating to the fansCredit: AFPIt was a moment of ecstasy for England as they reached the semis for a second successive EurosCredit: AFPPickford used his traditional tactic of having notes about the opponents’ penalty takers on his water bottleCredit: GettySwitzerland had stuffed Italy last week and went within minutes of defeating Germany in the group stage – and yet they were also the only team to fail to beat Scotland. It was a plodding start. England had a lot of the ball but didn’t do much with it. Tom Barclay England Player RatingsSaka produced an absolutely sensational performance for EnglandI know we needed penalties… but England showed vs Switzerland why they can WIN Euro 2024, says Jack WilshereIT TOOK penalties to put us through but, before the drama, England showed us why they have the ingredients to do something special, writes Jack Wilshere.It was a win by the narrowest of margins but this was overall our best performance of Euro 2024.If we can build on the progress we made, especially in the first half, we could WIN the tournament.It was not a complete display. There were nervy moments and waiting so long to make changes could have cost us.But we saw what a good team England can be if they do the right things and put players in the right positions.The first half was England’s best since the first 45 against Serbia. Maybe even better.One of the keys to that was our press and the effect it had on Granit Xhaka.For the first time in four games we were pressing high, winning the ball back in better areas and putting Switzerland on the back foot.In previous matches, our forwards were pressing but the gaps between our lines were too big.That was leaving huge gaps for Declan Rice and whoever was partnering him to cover.This time there was better structure and organisation.There seemed to be more of a plan for when to drop into a block and when to jump out to press.Now England have the opportunity to build momentum and show why they can win this tournament.Read all of SunSport columnist Jack’s Euro 2024 articles.They wasted set-pieces, squandered final balls and lacked express pace. Mainoo and Bellingham had their moments, threatening to spark something but the Swiss were obdurate, giving little away.Bellingham won a corner from which England passed it all the way back from Jordan Pickford – thus summing up their entire tumbleweed campaign in the space of ten seconds. Fabian Schar was booked for body-checking Bellingham, then Saka wriggled past Michel Aebischer and centred low for Kobbie Mainoo, whose shot was blocked.It was better than the shambles against Slovakia but there was little to set pulses racing and there were no shots on target from either side in the first half. Breel Embolo finally managed that for the Swiss but he shot straight at Pickford. The Swiss were beginning to exert pressure, their outnumbered supporters making most of the noise, and England were making unforced errors and finding themselves pinned back. Kane was lumbering around and had been well shackled by Manuel Akanji.Eventually, the England skipper was booked after a foul on the Manchester City man. The frustration was building. Switzerland boss Murat Yakin made a double change but, as ever, Southgate stuck rigidly with his starting eleven, despite any obvious suggestions of them creating chances. The warning signs had been there but England didn’t heed them and 14 minutes from time, the damage was done. With remarkably little pressure from Southgate’s men Schar freed Dan Ndoye down the right, Konsa – who had been looking shaky for some time – failed to react and Ndoye’s low centre, Stones failed to clear and Embolo poked in at the far post. England player ratings: Saka the saviour for Three Lions but subbed Kane stuggles in penalties thriller vs SwitzerlandBUKAYO SAKA showed huge courage as he dug England out of a hole and through on penalties against Switzerland, writes Tom Barclay.The Three Lions looked to be going out when Breel Embolo had put Swiss ahead on 75 minutes.But Arsenal star Saka dragged England back into five minutes later with a stunning effort off the post.To penalties it went – just like it did between these two sides five years ago in the Nations League.And just like back then, Jordan Pickford made a save – repelling the Swiss’s first effort from Manuel Akanji.England were perfect from then on, with Cole Palmer, Jude Bellignam, Saka, Ivan Toney and finally Trent Alexander-Arnold sending the Three Lions into the semi-final.Here’s how the players rated…Jordan Pickford: 7Had his heart in his mouth when Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner deep into extra-time hit the post and bar, but then pulled off a smart stop to take it to penalties.Saved Manuel Akanji’s first spot-kick by diving low to his left.Kyle Walker: 6Spent most of the game on the right side of a three which meant he could not get forward. Embolo got in front of him for Switzerland’s opener. Won the toss so the penalties were taken in front of the England fans.John Stones: 6Crisper passing in the first half, much better than his sloppy Slovakia display, but his deflection on Dan Ndoye’s cross diverted it to Embolo.Ezri Konsa: 6Was decent in the first half of his maiden start at a major tournament but, like the rest of the team, went into his shell after the break.Kieran Trippier: 6Had been expected to play right wing-back but was once again on the left.Solid defensively but, as has been the case throughout the tournament, offered little going forward on his unnatural side.Declan Rice: 7Anticipated, and subsequently, won a number of 50-50s at the base of England’s midfield.It was his decoy run that opened up the space for Saka to find the corner, before his 25-yard wonderstrike was denied by a flying Yann Sommer save in extra-time.Kobbie Mainoo: 6Some decent drives forward from midfield. Looked as if he would fire home an opener just before the break afterBukayo Saka’s nice cutback, but was denied by Granit Xhaka’s excellent block.Bukayo Saka: 8 and STAR MANDid not play at left wing-back as expected, but was England’s most dangerous attacking player throughout – and none more so when he came to the rescue with his 80th-minute leveller which flew in off the post.Showed huge courage in the shoot-out as he stroked home his penalty beautifully, three years on from missing in the last Euros final.Jude Bellingham: 6Produced a few graceful dribbles which showcased his quality in the first half but pretty quiet.Looked knackered but showed big cojones with his low penalty.Phil Foden: 6Admitted before the game that his central role would suit him better and it seemed to in the first 20 minutes, but faded after that.Harry Kane: 4This system just does not suit him. He needs runners, but does not look like he is going to get them.Just could not get into the game and was subbed out of it in extra-time, seconds after he was sent crashing into his manager on the touchline.SUBSCole Palmer (for Konsa, 78): 7One of three players to come on in reaction to Switzerland’s opener – why did it take so long, Gareth? Dispatched England’s first spot-kick with aplomb.Luke Shaw (for Trippier, 78): 6First minutes of football since February, slotting in on the left side of back three as Southgate went for broke.Eberechi Eze (for Mainoo, 78): 6Carved out a nice bit of space for himself in the dying moments but fired wide.Ivan Toney (For Kane, 109): 7It was no surprise to see him come with the prospect of penalties on the horizon – what was more of a shock was that it was for spot-kick maestro Kane. Was knocked over in the box right at the end of extra-time, but nothing was given. Confident penalty.Trent Alexander-Arnold (for Foden, 115): 7Thrown on late into extra-time. Belted home his spot-kick to win it.Gareth Southgate: 4The adjusted back three system worked to a certain extent, but still the approach looked to be to keep it tight and rely on a moment of magic.Saka provided that for the leveller, but given the talent at his disposal, it seemed very limited.Took an age to make a change – prompted only by Switzerland going ahead. But got his subs right when it came to the penalty shoot-out.It was a soft goal to concede but England had been passive and static for too long.  After the horse had bolted, Southgate got to work on the barn door. Trippier, Konsa and Mainoo were dragged off and replaced by Eberi Eze, Cole Palmer and Luke Shaw, finally fit for his first appearance in more than four months. Suddenly, England played as if rockets had been inserted up their jacksies – and within five minutes, they were level. It was a sweeping crossfield move which ended with Declan Rice feeding Saka, who netted a trademark finish, swaying, feinting, cutting inside and pinging a low shot in off the far post. Kobbie Mainoo was everywhere for the Three LionsBellingham had dropped deeper into midfield, Shaw was in the back three and Eze a wing-back. The equaliser and the changes gave England the impetus. There was a snap in their passes, a spring in their step, an attacking purpose to their game. In injury-time, a cross from Schar sparked panic in the England defence but Embolo couldn’t react. Early in extra-time, Rice let rip from 25 yards and Yann Sommer went full-stretch to turn it around the post – his first save of the match.This was England with the fabled handbrake off and soon Bellingham was testing Sonner again, though his shot was comfortably saved. Kane, looking utterly exhausted, was barged into the dugout by Akanji, colliding with Southgate as he tumbled.READ MORE SUN STORIESThe England boss took that opportunity to replace Kane with Ivan Toney, then introduced Alexander-Arnold for Foden as the seconds ticked down towards the shoot-out. England finished raggedly and a Xherdan Shaqiri’s corner crashed against the England bar before Zeki Amdouni’s powerful drive was pushed away by Pickford. Meet England’s Euro 2024 WagsEngland Wags range from childhood sweethearts to recently blossoming love stories.Katie Goodland (Harry Kane’s wife)The fitness instructor has been married to the England captain since 2019 and joined him in Germany with their four children after he joined Bayern Munich.Laura Celia Valk (Jude Bellingham’s girlfriend)The stunning Dutch model, 25, has more than half a million Instagram followers and is said to be absolutely smitten with the Real Madrid star.Rebecca Cooke (Phil Foden’s girlfriend)Foden’s childhood sweetheart and the mother of his two kids tends to keep out of the spotlight, but is a regular at England games.Dani Dyer (Jarrod Bowen’s girlfriend)England’s most famous Wag, former Love Island winner and daughter of Eastenders’ Danny Dyer.Iris Law (Trent Alexander-Arnold’s girlfriend)Dani Dyer isn’t the only actor’s daughter dating an England star. Iris’ dad is Hollywood legend Jude Law.Megan Davison (Jordan Pickford’s wife)Megan has been with Pickford since he was 14 years old. The couple married in 2022 and have one son.Olivia Naylor (John Stones’ girlfriend)The 33-year-old former beautician has stepped back from her role after giving birth to a baby son.Read more about the Wags supporting England at Euro 2024 here More

ENGLAND captain Harry Kane was forced off after crashing into England’s bench during the Euro 2024 quarter-final against Switzerland.Kane, 30, and Manchester City star Manuel Akanji went for the ball next to the touchline but clashed with too much force during extra-time.England captain Harry Kane clashed with Switzerland star Manuel AkanjiKane landed on the England bench during the Euro 2024 quarter-finalEngland boss Gareth Southgate tried to save KaneKane couldn’t escape a rough landing in the England touchlineSouthgate took Kane off and replaced him with Ivan ToneyThat led to the Bayern Munich superstar tumbling next to his manager Gareth Southgate.Southgate tried to hold on to his star striker but he couldn’t keep him on his feet.Thus, the Tottenham legend was immediately replaced by Brentford star Ivan Toney in the 109th minute.That added to England’s nerves as they headed to a penalty shootout against Switzerland after a 1-1 draw.Read More on FootballAnd Kane has always been lethal from the penalty spot as the team’s main taker.But England didn’t miss their skipper during the nervy shootout.Southgate’s men won 5-3 with a clean sweep that saw every player hit the target.Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Bukayo Saka, Ivan Toney and Trent Alexander-Arnold made history at Euro 2024.Most read in Euro 2024BEST FREE BET SIGN UP OFFERS FOR UK BOOKMAKERSThat was the first time ever England win a penalty shootout by scoring all five spot-kicks.And to make matters even better, Kane revealed he only suffered a cramp and will be fit enough for the semi-finals.Trent Alexander-Arnold puts England into Euro 2024 semi finals with brilliant final penalty in shootout vs SwitzerlandEngland will face the winner of the quarter-final clash between Turkey and the Netherlands.THIS IS A DEVELOPING STORY..The Sun is your go to destination for the best football, boxing and MMA news, real-life stories, jaw-dropping pictures and must-see video.Like us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/TheSunFootball and follow us from our main Twitter account at @TheSunFootball. More

STUNNED Jude Bellingham was at the centre of an incredible sub mix-up in England’s dramatic Euro quarter-final victory over Switzerland.Boss Gareth Southgate responded to falling behind with a TRIPLE replacement in the 78th minute.Prince William in crowd to support England as they take on Switzerland in crucial Euros quarter-finalJude Bellingham brought in ref Daniele Orsato over the confusionJude Bellingham was baffled by the sub mistakeSouthgate made his major changes in 78 minutes but it almost went wrongCredit: BBCBellingham briefly thought he was going offCredit: BBCBut before the changes were completed, Bellingham reacted in disbelief as it appeared he came close to being taken off by mistake.Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze and fit-again Luke Shaw eventually came on for Ezri Konsa, Kieran Trippier and Kobbie Mainoo.But Bellingham had looked on in amazement when his No10 was shown on the board.He swapped words with referee Daniele Orsato over the confusion.READ MORE ON EURO 2024And at one stage Bellingham even rolled up his shirt towards his chest – as if he preparing to be hauled off.But once everything had been cleared up on the sidelines, England did their best to sort things out in the middle.Breel Embolo had stabbed the Swiss in front on 75 minutes.But soon after the Three Lions made their treble change, main man Bukayo Saka promptly turned their fortunes around.Most read in Euro 2024The confusion was so great the BBC flashed up this clarification 10 MINUTES after the triple substitution took placeEURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANYThe Arsenal wideman cut in from the right for a brilliant low left-footer into the corner.Fans were as puzzled by Bellingham over the sub misunderstanding.Prince William in crowd to support England as they take on Switzerland in crucial Euros quarter-finalBut a few viewers claimed the Real Madrid star’s reaction was for another reason.He posted: “Bellingham knowing that he wasn’t getting subbed off – without looking at the board – reinforces the idea Southgate pre-plans his subs before a ball has been kicked, rather than working on game momentum.”Another wrote: “Just thought, Bellingham literally knew he wasn’t going off which means Southgate must plan his subs ahead regardless of how we’re playing!”And a full 10 MINUTES after Southgate’s three-pronged changed the BBC flashed a clarification of the substitutions along the bottom of the screen during their live match coverage.The match remained level at 1-1 before going to penalties.England then kept their cool with late substitute Trent Alexander-Arnold scoring the vital kick in a 5-3 shootout win. More