Euro 2024, Gareth Southgate's Expression After The England National Team Qualified For The Semifinals

England coach Gareth Southgate (x)

JAKARTA - England coach Gareth Southgate is clearly happy with the results that brought his team through to the semifinals of Euro 2024. The coach did not hesitate to praise his team who were able to rise even though they had been left behind.

England face Switzerland in the quarter-finals on Saturday, July 6 evening WIB. In that match The Three Lions finally won on penalties over Switzerland 5-3.

Previously, when the position lasted 1-1, Switzerland actually took the lead through Breel Embolo in the 75th minute. Then Bukayo Saka was able to bring England to equalize the score 1-1 in the 81st minute.

I think the players are brilliant. This is the best game we have. We caused a lot of trouble with the ball to them (Switzerland)," Southgate said after the game.

"They (Switzerland) are a very good team, they are difficult to suppress, difficult to fight, their movement is good. To rise from behind again, and show the character and resilience we show; it is another struggle," continued the coach.

Since the group stage, England's appearance at Euro 2024 has been heavily criticized for not promising and not describing it as a winning candidate team. But in last night's match Southgate admitted that his team could prove themselves.

In addition, the 53-year-old coach also revealed how his squad is now more filled with players who are able to take penalties when needed.

"We went through a good process and now we have won three times. We were 'trialed' because of our defeat (in the Euro 2020 final). We have more regular penalty takers in this squad and more choices of kickers on penalties," he explained.

"However, they have to show their composure and do it (kicks). Then there is goalkeeper (Pickford) who will always make one save and that gives us a chance," Southgate added.

The victory on penalties over Switzerland also ended England's curse on penalties at Euro for 28 years. The last time England won a match at Euro was on penalties at Euro 1996.