England striker Ollie Watkins has emphasized that the team’s primary focus is on winning games, rather than individual performances or goalscoring tallies. Despite not setting the tournament alight, the Three Lions have managed to reach the Euro 2024 final against Spain. While Spain has netted 13 goals and secured six victories in regular or extra time, England has scored seven goals and won three matches (excluding penalty shootouts) against lower-ranked teams than Spain.
Gareth Southgate, the England manager, and his players faced heavy criticism from fans during their unconvincing run to the quarter-finals. However, a penalty shootout victory over Switzerland followed by a 2-1 comeback win against the Netherlands has shifted the national mood. In the semi-final victory over the Dutch, Aston Villa forward Ollie Watkins scored the decisive goal in the 90th minute, marking only his second appearance as a substitute in the tournament. Reflecting on his goal, Watkins expressed his belief that it was a result of manifesting and preparation.
Watkins also shared his perspective on King Charles’ message to the team, which urged them to win without any more stressful late dramas. While acknowledging the excitement that comes with late goals, Watkins stated that the team’s primary concern is for the ball to find the back of the net, regardless of how they achieve it.
Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who started England’s first two games in midfield, has since made only two short substitute appearances. However, he remains confident in the team’s performance, describing their journey to the final as elite in every department. Alexander-Arnold believes that England has found their rhythm on and off the pitch at the right time. He also emphasized the importance of finishing strong in a tournament, stating that it is not about how one starts but how they finish. With hopes of ending the tournament on a high note, Alexander-Arnold expressed optimism for the upcoming final against Spain.
In conclusion, England’s focus on winning games rather than individual performances or goalscoring tallies has propelled them to the Euro 2024 final. Despite initial criticism, the team’s resilience and ability to secure crucial victories have shifted the national mood. Ollie Watkins and Trent Alexander-Arnold both share their commitment to doing whatever it takes to ensure the ball ends up in the back of the net. As England prepares for the final against Spain, they aim to maintain their elite performance and finish the tournament on a high note.