England Reaches First Major Final Since 1966

England’s hopes of lifting the European trophy were boosted when they reached the first men’s final in a major tournament since winning the World Cup in 1966. They achieved that after beating Denmark 2-1 at the Euro 2020 semi-final at Wembley Stadium. The Betway betting odds are leaning towards the Three Lions as the favorites to win this year’s tournament because they have the home-ground advantage. Gareth Southgate’s men had to fight from one goal down to win the match in extra time after a contentious penalty ended Denmark’s fairy tale.

Raheem Sterling and Kane Teamed Up Again
Raheem Sterling’s quick feet proved too much for Danny Makkelie, and VAR confirmed the Referee’s penalty decision. The spot-kick itself was dramatic as Danish keeper Kasper Schmeichel saved the first shot, but Harry Kane pounced to score from the rebound.

The two had set the tempo for the game in the pre-match press conference as Schmeichel made fun of the English fans’ phrase “it is coming home” but asking whether it had even been home. After that penalty, Harry Kane came out on top of the duel.

Mikkel Damsgaard opened the scoring with a remarkable free-kick before Simos Kjaer’s own goal leveled the scoring. The Danish team put in another blustery performance that has typified their tournament after Christian Eriksen collapsed during their opening match.

For the Three Lions, the match had many similarities to their 1996 European Championship semi-final against Germany. The match was also played in front of fans at the Wembley stadium, but it ended differently. In the tie, Gareth Southgate took the decisive penalty and missed. Twenty-five years later, he seemed to have redeemed himself after leading his country to their first European Championship final.

England will now face Italy in the Finals after the Azzurri triumphed against Spain in another match decided on penalties. The match will be tough to call, especially for sports betting fans on Betway, but England will be relying on their fans’ support to inspire them to a historic win.

It Was Great To Have Fans Back At Wembley
The semi-final was played in front of 60000 fans after the UK government gave the green light for fans to enter the stadium. England’s fans were predictably the majority, and they sang and danced their way to the ground.

The Danish fans were the minority, but their presence was felt. One end of Wembley was littered with Danish flags. There was a sense of anxiety among the fans as both teams took to the pitch. You could see the difference the fans made in the game as both teams looked inspired.

Is It Coming Home?
Gareth Southgate’s next assignment is to ensure the boys keep their heads down as they head to the finals. The tie against the Italians will also test the sports betting skills of gamblers on Betway because Italy has been one of the tournament’s best performers.

It will be a different test for the Three Lions as the Italians led by the likes of Bonucci and Chiellini have a lot of experience. However, England has the talent and squad depth to finish the job. Moreover, they will be having more than 60000 fans backing them. So, what are your thoughts; is it coming home?

Advertisement