After a tense victory over Switzerland, England aims to reach consecutive European Championship finals, but they must first overcome a formidable Netherlands side in the EURO 2024 semi-finals.
Reaching their third semi-final in four major tournaments, Gareth Southgate’s team seeks to avenge their 2021 loss at Wembley, where Italy overturned a 1-0 deficit and defeated England on penalties. Despite not being at their best in EURO 2024, England has shown resilience, coming from behind to defeat Slovakia in the round of 16 and Switzerland in the quarter-finals, setting up this crucial semi-final clash.
England faces a challenging history against the Netherlands, having won only once in their last nine encounters. The most recent meeting, a Nations League semi-final, saw the Netherlands win 3-1 with both Southgate and Ronald Koeman managing their respective teams.
The Netherlands, under Koeman’s guidance, reached their first EURO semi-final since 2004 after a comeback victory over Turkey. This marks their return to prominence after 36 years since their only European Championship win. Both teams now face their biggest test yet in the tournament.
**England Team News**
The Three Lions are bolstered by the return of two key players. Luke Shaw, the only left-back in the squad, missed the first four games due to fitness issues but is now fit to start, posing a selection dilemma for Southgate with Kieran Trippier’s form in question. Marc Guehi is also available after missing the quarter-final due to suspension. He will compete with Ezri Konsa for a spot in the lineup, though it is unclear whether England will use a three or four-man defense.
Harry Kane, who was substituted in extra time against Switzerland due to cramp, is expected to start and will aim to add to his record as joint top scorer in the knockout phases, alongside Antoine Griezmann.
England has no further suspensions, and any yellow-card-induced suspensions will be cleared for the final if they progress. This means players like Kane, Trippier, Phil Foden, Conor Gallagher, Kobbie Mainoo, and Jude Bellingham can play without the risk of missing the final due to yellow cards.
**England Predicted Starting XI**
Despite calls for changes, Southgate is likely to stick with the team that has brought England this far. The only potential change might be the return of Guehi, who has been impressive throughout the tournament. Rumors of a back-three formation against Switzerland were not realized, so a similar strategy is expected against the Netherlands.
