England broke the penalty curse, winning 5-3 against Switzerland advancing to the semifinals – Spain-France and England-Netherlands the semi-final pairings (updated)

Spain (with a goal in the 119th minute against Germany) and France (after a nerve-wracking penalty shootout against Portugal) form one semifinal pairing of Euro 2024. This match will take place on Tuesday night in Munich, a repeat of the 1984 final where France defeated Spain 2-0 (Platini 57′, Bellone 90′).

England and Switzerland took their Euro 2024 quarterfinal clash to extra time in Dusseldorf as the game sparked to life in the final 15 minutes. In Friday’s thrilling quarterfinals, Spain edged out Germany with a last-minute victory, and France triumphed over Portugal on penalties, both matches extending into extra time.

Similarly, this match seemed destined for a prolonged battle after a quiet first half with no shots on target from either side. Under Gareth Southgate’s tactical adjustments to a 3-4-3 formation, England showed significant improvement, pressing aggressively and displaying better possession play, particularly through Kobbie Mainoo and Phil Foden in central positions.

While Bukayo Saka kept the right flank lively, causing problems for Switzerland’s wingback Michel Aebischer, team captain Harry Kane struggled to make an impact in his center-forward role. Switzerland gained momentum in the second half, and Breel Embolo’s goal in the 75th minute appeared to secure their spot in the semifinals against either the Netherlands or Turkey. Yet, Bukayo Saka had different plans, unleashing a spectacular strike five minutes later that found the back of the net off the post.

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