Roy Keane’s priceless reaction to England’s last-minute victory over the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finals had fans in fits of laughter.
Ollie Watkins, who’d only been on the pitch for a mere 10 minutes, delivered an outstanding finish to outsmart Bart Verbruggen and secure a 2-1 win for England. The crucial goal has propelled the Three Lions into their second consecutive European Championship final, where they’re set to face a formidable Spanish side in Berlin this Sunday.
Keane, the Irish soccer legend, was providing his expert analysis for ITV during the match. As Watkins’ shot found its mark, English pundits Gary Neville and Ian Wright couldn’t contain their excitement.
However, Manchester United icon Keane remained stoic, offering only a sly grin and a slight shift to the side as he watched the replay of England’s monumental moment from the studio balcony. It was clear he didn’t not share their celebratory mood – just as you’d expect given Ireland’s fierce rivalry with England.
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This historic win marks the first time the Three Lions have made it to a tournament final on foreign turf. It also cements Gareth Southgate’s legacy as the first England manager to guide the men’s team to two major tournament finals. The match didn’t start in England’s favour though, with Xavi Simons giving the Dutch an early lead with a powerful strike just seven minutes in.
England’s captain Harry Kane quickly levelled the score with a controversial penalty, awarded by VAR after Denzel Dumfries was deemed to have fouled him. From there, Southgate’s squad took control before half-time. The second half saw both teams evenly matched until Watkins’ moment of magic sealed the deal at the eleventh hour.
“Unbelievable,” exclaimed the Aston Villa forward on ITV amidst the jubilant scenes. “I’ve been waiting for that moment for weeks. It’s taken a lot of hard work to get where I am today, grateful that I got the opportunity and I grabbed it with both hands. I’m delighted.”
Watkins shared: “I swear on my life, I swear on my kids’ life, I said to Cole Palmer [who assisted the goal], we’re coming on and you’re going to set me up today. And that’s why I was so happy.
“I knew as soon as he got the ball he was going to play me and then you’ve got to be greedy: touch and finish. And when I seen it go in the bottom corner… oh my life. Best feeling ever.”