Phil Foden: Luck Plays With Bellingham And Clash Against Partners

JAKARTA - Phil Foden is very excited to face Switzerland in the quarter-finals of Euro 2024, Saturday, July 6, 2024.

The Manchester City player believes the Three Lions will step into the semifinals. That confidence arose because Foden felt England was getting more complete.

Moreover, the 24-year-old midfielder has become more and more united in playing with Jude Bellingham in the second line.

The issue of Foden's appearance which has not been maximized due to Bellingham's presence has also been denied. Foden considers his slick performance that has not been seen more about the English play system, not because of Bellingham.

He was even happy to be able to fight with Bellingham. Moreover, the Real Madrid player helped him and England survived the defeat against Slovakia in the last 16 of Euro 2024.

Bellingham's goal in second-half injury time was very meaningful. England were finally able to advance to the quarter-finals.

For Foden, England's victory over Slovakia has multiplied his happiness. As is known, before facing the round of 16, the Manchester City player had returned to England to see the birth of his third child.

No wonder he thanked Bellingham for making him even more excited.

"I think the game is only 30 seconds left (England 0-1). So, thank you to Jude for that."

"It saved me there! It's hard to believe what he did. It just summarized Jude, he never gave up until the end," said Foden.

"It has been arranged (he had time to return to England). Gareth (Southgate) is very good at things like that."

"Of course it's crazy to go home and return to the team. However, the main focus is trying to win the Euros," he said again.

Now, Foden is looking at the match against Switzerland with multiple motivations. The midfielder believes England is more qualified than ever before.

In addition, he is also excited to face his Manchester City teammate, Manuel Akanji. Although difficult, Foden believes the Three Lions can pass through Switzerland.

"From what I saw, they were very good at controlling the ball. So, we have to fix the pressure on the opponent."

"I clearly know Akanji and he is extraordinary in possession of the ball. He is someone who shows calm when he is under pressure. He is an extraordinary player," said Foden.

If England manages to pass Switzerland, they will meet the winner between the Netherlands and Turkey.