Chris Sutton believes that England’s Euro 2024 semi-final in opposition to the Netherlands is just too near name…however predicts that the Dutch will give Gareth Southgate’s aspect ‘a hell of a recreation’.
The 2 sides each staged comebacks of their respective quarter-finals to arrange their head-to-head assembly within the subsequent spherical, with England beating Switzerland on penalties within the teatime kick-off after rescuing a 1-1 draw.
The Netherlands then got here from behind to beat Turkey 2-1 – the one one of many quarter-final video games to be settled in 90 minutes – and earn their progress to a primary semi-final for the reason that 2014 World Cup, and their first on the Euros since 2004.
Why Spain Have The PERFECT System To Win The Euros
Talking on BBC Radio 5 Reside, Sutton mentioned of this Wednesday night’s semi-final conflict in Dortmund: “I feel it’s a 50/50 recreation. The Dutch have a lot high quality however England are discovering a solution to win video games. It’s event soccer and I’m not certain who’s going to win it.
“My total feeling is I’m delighted for Gareth Southgate. He has been beneath stress and brought loads of flak and proved folks unsuitable once more. They’re discovering a manner right into a semi-final.
“I nonetheless do not feel like England have performed anyplace close to what they’re able to. Possibly it’s going to come in opposition to the Dutch.”
The very best options, enjoyable and footballing quizzes, straight to your inbox each week.
England ran out 4-1 winners the final time they confronted the Netherlands at a significant event, again at Euro 96 (Picture credit score: Getty Photos)
Reacting to the Netherlands’ victory on Saturday evening, in the meantime, Sutton added: “I feel we anticipated a dramatic recreation. Turkey have been aggressive going ahead and received themselves in entrance.
“It was actually the change at half-time from Ronald Koeman. The Dutch dug deep, had the higher probabilities and turned it spherical. They may give England one hell of a recreation.”
England and the Netherlands final met in a significant event within the group stage of Euro 96. Terry Venables’ aspect ran out 4-1 winners on that event because of braces from Alan Shearer and Teddy Sheringham.
Patrick Kluivert’s late aim was greater than mere comfort, nevertheless, making certain the Netherlands went by means of to the knockout stage on objectives scored at Scotland’s expense.
Extra England tales
England enchancment at Euro 2024 nonetheless leaves a lot to be desired after Switzerland scares – but they’ve us dreaming once more
Did Jude Bellingham refuse to be substituted? After subs board mix-up followers counsel England star used his ‘aura’ to alter Gareth Southgate’s thoughts
Bukayo Saka heroics vs Switzerland at Euro 2024 had all of England smiling with him
