England 1-1 Switzerland - Euro 2024 RECAP: Relive England's win (2024)

They just keep doing it, don't they?

England have had their doubters throughout the whole of Euro 2024, and rightly so, but they keep battling on.

While they looked better today, Gareth Southgate's men once again failed to truly show what they are capable of.

With 15 minutes of normal time remaining, they looked like gonners. 1-0 down and looking unlikely to score.

Then comes superstar Bukayo Saka to save the day.

Extra-time brought nothing and it was down to the old enemy of penalties, could they cast away the ghosts of Euro 2020?

You bet they could. Five exceptional penalties all dispatched calmly, plus a save from Jordan Pickford, means England are in the last four.

They will face an old foe in the Netherlands on Wednesday in Dortmund with the hope of making a second consecutive Euros final.

I will see you all there, but for now, it's time for me to head home.

Thank you for joining us for yet another monumental day for Southgate's side. It's been a pleasure to take you through the action and reaction.

Goodnight!

Frank Lampard, former England midfielder, speaking on BBC One:

Want to hear from Bukayo Saka? Well, here is your chance.

Speaking in the post-match press conference, the winger addressed banishing his ghosts of Euro 2020.

They are long gone now.

You are all feeling optimistic then?

Alan Shearer, former England captain, on BBC One:

So, how are we feeling about the semi-finals?

I know the dust is yet to settle fully, but it's not long until England will be taking to the turf again.

If at the start of the tournament England fans were told they would need to beat the Netherlands to make the final, they'd be very happy.

Do you all still feel that way, or will it be England's toughest test yet?

Another angle? Oh, go on then!

The more videos the better in my opinion, and this is yet another that shows the pure joy England felt when that penalty went in.

A rare moment where Jordan Pickford and Trent Alexander-Arnold celebrate together.

They will be back to arguing next season...

I am loving all of this content.

A video from the stands of Trent Alexander-Arnold's penalty has just been shared, and my word, it's incredible.

The fact the person managed to keep hold of their phone with all of that going on around them is impressive.

The joys of football, eh?

Mail Sport's Craig Hope has revealed his verdict on a magical night for England in Dusseldorf.

I won't give too much away, but it's fair to say that Craig feels Switzerland may feel hard done by.

Why, though?

Watch, and he will give you his reasoning.

Gary Neville, former England full-back, on ITV1:

From the commentary box to the boozer!

Alan Shearer has had a pretty full-on day working on the BBC's coverage of England's win over Switzerland.

Well, he has more than earned himself a pint, don't you think?

He's enjoying a nice cold one in celebration with former England winger Theo Walcott.

All smiles in Germany (from the England fans that is).

This is why Oliver Holt is so fond of Gareth Southgate.

Just look at his record as England manager at major tournaments, it's very good.

Give the man some credit!

Phoar, what a day it has been, and it's not over yet.

You've heard a lot from me over these last eight hours, now it's time you read a different perspective.

Our Chief Sports Writer, Oliver Holt, was in Dusseldorf today to see England book yet another semi-final spot in a major tournament.

It's fair to say, he thinks Gareth Southgate deserves some credit.

Read the match story, below:

So, now we know the final four teams.

With the Netherlands beating Turkey in Berlin, our two semi-finals are set for July 9 and 10.

Let's have a look at them:

Well then, England will face the Netherlands in the last four.

The Dutch had to come from behind in the second half, and they did so thanks to Stefan de Vrij and an own goal from Murt Muldur.

It means they have secured a date with the Three Lions in Dortmund on Wednesday.

It's fair to say, England don't have the best of records against them.

Right, let's have a look at the statistics, shall we?

As you can see below, it wasn't the most enthralling of tournament quarter-finals.

Only 24 shots across 120 minutes, and just six on target from the two sides.

It all came down to penalties, which England reigned supreme in.

That's the only stat Gareth Southgate will care about.

I thought players weren't staying away from social media this tournament...

Only joking, this is a cracking post.

It looks like a selfie my dad would take if the family were out for dinner. Very wholesome.

Togetherness is indeed what you need if you want to win a major international tournament.

England certainly have it.

Hang it in the Louvre.

I just keep stumbling across great snaps of that winning moment, and I just simply have to share them.

The adrenaline coursing through the veins of those players at that moment in time must have been immense.

Jordan Pickford looks like he is about to pop a blood vessel.

The Three Lions are now getting to spend some time with their families.

After all the elation after winning such a tight affair on penalties, the calm after the storm must feel great.

It's hugs all around for everyone involved.

Jude Bellingham, England midfielder, speaking to BBC One:

It's not often you see England score all five of their penalty kicks in a shootout.

In fact, it's so rare that it's only the second time it has happened in 10 major tournament shootouts.

The only other previous time they managed it was against Spain at Euro 1996.

They held their nerve when it mattered.

As Kool and the Gang sing... it's time for celebration.

here are some of the best pictures from the aftermath of the monumental victory.

I bet the players and fans wanted that feeling to last forever. Bottle it up and keep it.

Now they can use it as motivation.

Gareth Southgate just keeps on delivering.

With their victory today, England have reached back-to-back semi-finals at the European Championship for the very first time.

Before Southgate was appointed, England had only made the last four in this tournament on one occasion.

Guess when that was? 1996.

Southgate didn't miss a game as a player in that tournament.

How cool was this?

Ivan Toney didn't even glance at the ball for a second in the run-up to his penalty, he just glared at the keeper.

It worked. He buried it into the bottom left-hand corner as cool as you like. Superb stuff.

In the mixed zone after the game, he said: ‘I never look at the ball when I take a penalty, it’s my routine.’

Stick to it, Ivan. It's ice cold.

Harry Kane, England captain, speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live:

Right, shall we have a look at why England even had the chance to win a penalty shootout?

I think we should.

A fair way to describe Bukayo Saka's equaliser is a Thundercracker. It reminds me of his strike against Manchester United two seasons ago.

Watch, and enjoy.

We are going to keep the Bukayo Saka love coming.

It will be unsurprising to all of you that the Arsenbal man won the Man of the Match award.

We have his statistics here too.

The one that sticks out to me is that he managed an expected goals tally of 0.07 - he scored.

That proves just how cracking his strike was.

Now these are both lovely photos.

Prince William has been pictured congratulating Bukayo Saka after the game in the tunnel.

Look at both of them beaming with delight.

Maybe the Prince of Wales is trying to convince him to move to Aston Villa?

That definitely would have made Saka laugh...

Gareth Southgate, England boss, speaking to BBC One:

We witnessed some cracking penalties, didn't we?

I'm not sure I have ever seen an England side look so calm when taking them, every single spot-kick was slotted away expertly.

So just how good were they?

Well, every single spot-kick has been rated, and here are the results from the England five:

There always has to be a loser...

And this time it's Switzerland who feel the pain of a penalty shootout loss in a major tournament.

There isn't a worse way to lose. When you get so close to then lose by a solitary penalty miss, it has to sting.

It will hurt for a long time.

Jordan Pickford is always prepared for penalties.

Just look at his water bottle, he has practically every single Swiss player's penalty-taking preferences on it.

It even says to 'DIVE LEFT' for Manuel Akanji. Incredible, it's no wonder he always manages to save one.

England's number one is always reliable, he has now saved four of the 14 penalties he has faced in shootouts at major tournaments.

It's fair to say, the celebrations in Dusseldorf were rather wild.

Just look at the faces of all the England fans in attendance, they went berzerk when Trent Alexander-Arnold scored the winning penalty.

These are the days they will remember for the rest of their lives. Jubilation everywhere you look.

They are probably still going, and will long into the night.

Speaking of emotion, just look at this outburst of pure joy from Gareth Southgate.

He knows the pressure he is under every time that England step out onto the turf in this tournament.

Pressure really does take its toll, and videos like these show just how much he cares.

Yet again, he has delivered a major tournament semi-final.

You might not like his style, but boy, oh boy does he get results.

Prince William is just like every other England fan.

As you can see by these photos, his emotions were put through the ringer while in Dusseldorf watching the Three Lions.

From dejection in the first photo, to delight in the second and third.

And after it all, he will have a smile on his face like the rest of us.

We have to talk about Bukayo Saka, what a performance.

Before getting into the penalty shootout, he was by far England's best player tonight.

He kept pushing, and pushing, when other players looked dead on their feet, and he got the goal that kept England alive.

Then, the penalty shootout.

We all know that his miss in the Euro 2020 final would have no doubt entered his mind today.

He wanted to put that night right, and he did it with aplomb. You have to commend the character he showed.

Incredible mental strength.

Bukayo Saka, England goalscorer, speaking to BBC One:

On making amends from Euro 2020 miss:

Want to see it from another angle? Of course, you do!

Here are all the scenes when Trent Alexander-Arnold's penalty crashed into the back of the net.

No hesitation, everybody sprints straight over to the Liverpool full-back and the fans.

Pure pandemonium, you love to see it.

England fans, you are going to enjoy this post.

If you haven't seen it already, here is the moment Trent Alexander-Arnold sent England through to the quarter-finals.

The pressure was on, every England player before him had buried their spot-kicks with ease.

Could he do the same? You bet he could!

Trent Alexander-Arnold, England's winning penalty taker, speaking to BBC One:

Jordan Pickford rarely lets England down when it comes to penalties.

While the attention will be on the fact that not a single Three Lion missed their spot-kicks, Pickford still had to save one.

And he did. The very first one too.

He does his homework on penalty takers, and it certainly worked with Manuel Akanji.

The mind games were excellent too.

Alan Shearer, former England captain, on BBC One:

The scenes in Dusseldorf are those of joy and celebration.

Well, if you're English!

The players raced straight over to the fans to celebrate, and they have not stopped since.

The smiles are on the faces of everyone situated in that end, Gareth Southgate's England have done it again.

Sweet Caroline is now on too!

England have broken the curse of the Euros penalty shootout.

They have shaken off the burden of 2021, and when it mattered England stood up tall.

Five perfect penalties, and not a single player looked nervous.

Another semi-final beckons.

Trent Alexander-Arnold is the man who has the chance to take England to the semi-finals.

AND HE TAKES THE NET OFF!

Zeki Amdouni to keep Switzerland in the fight...

He has to score, and he has!

Straight down the middle.

Ivan Toney never misses for Brentford... and he hasn't for England either!

One more penalty from victory.

Xherdan Shaqiri will go next...

He scores.... just about. Jordan Pickford nearly got a glove to it!

Bukayo Saka who takes Arsenal's penalties is now stepping up for England.

And he scores with ease.

He smiles with delight and punches the air!

Now it's Fabian Schar's turn to feel the heat.

He takes a massive run-up before sending Jordan Pickford the wrong way.

Can Jude Bellingham put more pressure on the Swiss?

He takes huge strides back, takes a deep breath.... and rolls it cooly past Sommer.

As cool as you like!

Manuel Akanji is now at the spot for Switzerland.

Jordan Pickford tries to put him off by taking his time.

AND HE SAVES IT!

Cole Palmer places the ball down.... and he scores.

He sends Yann Sommer the wrong way.

Cool as a cucumber.

Advantage, England!

The shootout will be taken in front of the Thre Lions faithful, and Cole Palmer will take the first one.

How are your nerves?

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

So, who is going to take the kicks?

No Harry Kane and no Phil Foden, but Ivan Toney, Trent Alexander-Arnold, and Cole Palmer are on the pitch.

I'm guessing Toney will take the first one...

Ivan Toney screams for a penalty with the last kick of the game, but he doesn't get it.

He doesn't have to wait long, though, he will get to take a kick in just a few moments.

We are going to penalties.

Is there time for a late winner?

It will have to be scored in the next 60 seconds.

England are hanging on for their dear lives.

Zeki Amdouni has just come on and straight away forces Jordan Pickford into a stong save.

Then the ball ends up in the path of Silvan Widmer who blazes over.

Heart beats are through the roof in this office.

Xherdan Shaqiri hits the post straight from a corner!

He catches everybody napping and aims to sneak the ball in via the near post, and nearly manages it, but it smashes off the post.

What a winner that would have been.

England have Bukayo Saka to thank for still being in this game!

Silvan Widmer was through on the right, and Jordan Pickford tried to put him off by rushing out.

He thinks he has all the time in the world but Saka rushes back to put it out for a corner.

Kane looked to have hurt himself after being pushed by Akanji. Southgate did his best to stop the England captain from falling over, as the clip below shows.

Phil Foden's evening is up, he makes way for Trent Alexander-Arnold.

Every England player looks absolutely knackered, they need all the energy they can muster right now.

Bukayo Saka will now with to the left.

The ball may have just landed on the moon.

Fabian Schar is known for scoring screamers and the ball bounces toward him in loads of space.

But he gets his half-volley all wrong and skies it over the bar.

This game has suddenly become end-to-end.

Switzerland first race onto the counter through Xherdan Shqirir, but his pass is poor.

Then England break and Cole Palmer tries to dance into the box, but he is halted at the vital time.

No Harry Kane for the penalty shootout... If we get there.

he has been taken off to be replaced by Ivan Toney, who isn't bad from the spot himself.

Meanwhile, Breel Embole has come off for Xherdan Shaqiri to an almighty roar.

Harry Kane has just clattered into Gareth Southgate after being shoved by Manuel Akanji.

I guess that's one way to stop him.

I must admit, I did have a little giggle, which is harsh as he looks in a lot of pain.

How are everybody's nails?

I bet the majority of you have chewed them off by this point, right?

Mine are still intact, just about.

A quick breather and then we are back underway again.

This could be the cagiest 15 minutes you see all tournament.

The nerves are ramped up to an all-time high.

No change at the break then.

England created a couple of decent chances in that opening 15, but nothing doing.

15 more minutes to try and find a winner, or it's the dreaded p-word.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

Oh, I thought that was about to be 2-1 for a second.

Switzerland can't get the ball clear as Bukayo Saka fires a tantalising cross into the box.

The ball eventually falls to Jude Bellingham who has two bites of the cherry, and with the second he sends a strike hurtling toward the top corner.

But Yann Sommer makes it look easy by collecting the ball with two hands.

Fabian Schar is walking on a tightrope right now...

The Newcastle man has already been booked and he has just wiped out Eberechi Eze who had beaten several defenders.

One more and it's bye-bye.

Switzerland have decided to reshuffle the pack.

The bright spark of Dan Ndoye has started to fade and in turn, he is hooked.

Former Chelsea midfielder, Denis Zakaria, replaces him.

Cole Palmer is causing the Switzerland backline several problems. he is not scared to go at them.

This is what England had been missing for so long during normal time. Plamer just brings the energy.

Yann Sommer produces a brilliant save to deny Declan Rice from scoring an absolute screamer.

As the ball drops to Declan Rice I said 'Don't shoot' but he can't hear me and he decides to go for it.

What an effort it is too, the ball was hurtling toward the bottom right corner, but Sommer tips it around the post at full stretch.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

An early warning sign for England that Switzerland are still going for it.

Fabian Schar is in acres of space on the right-hand side and he tries to half-volley a dangerous cross into the area.

He gets it all wrong, though, and it turns into a shot that dips over the bar.

That break flew by!

The action is back underway in Dusseldorf, not long to rest the legs for any of us.

Can England do what they did against Slovakia, and take the lead early in extra-time?

England supporters across the country revelled in the celebrations as Saka equalised to keep the Three Lions in the Euros.

Fans have packed out venues and streets throughout the nation, including Boxpark in London, AO Arena in Manchester and Millenium Square in Leeds.

England may need this in just over half an hour...

Will it get to this point, though, or are we in for a dramatic extra-time period?

We will find out very soon, but in the meantime, have a read of this!

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

Extra time it is then!

England looked on their way out after Breel Embolo prodded home with 15 minutes to go, but then came a moment of magic from Bukayo Saka.

Right when they needed him, the Arsenal man came up with a cracker to keep the Three Lions' dreams alive.

Now we have at least 30 more minutes of drama to come...

Oh my word, was that the moment for Switzerland?

Fabian Schar curls in a beautiful ball with Dan Ndoiye lurking at the back post.

He looks set to attack it, but Breel Embolo flicks the ball out of his way.

If he hadn't, the ball was destined for the net.

Only three minutes of stoppage time...

Is that enough for either side to find a winner, or are we destined for extra-time?

My guess would be the latter.

Dan Ndoye, you can do better than that!

The Swiss winger sees his name in lights as the 90 minutes is nearly up, but he blasts miles over.

That nearly goes out of the stadium.

Prince William is in the stands in Dusseldorf and was spotted wildly celebrating as Saka's strike found the net.

Looks like the Prince thoroughly enjoyed that!

The substitutes have made a massive difference, and two of them have just combined.

Luke Shaw finds Eberechi Eze and the Crystal Palace man decides to have a pop at goal.

It's a decent effort, but he drags it wide.

The England fans are in fine voice, the national anthem is blaring out of their end.

And England are using the crowd's energy, they are all over Switzerland at the moment.

Can they find a winner?

Silvan Widmer wants to keep Cole Palmer's shirt I think... Just ask for it after the match.

In all seriousness, he won't let the substitute go and gets a booking for it.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

That's why you make substitutions!

The mood lifted immediately as soon as the changes were made, and it took just a minute for England to equalise.

It feels like a different game now.

WHAT A GOAL FROM BUKAYO SAKA!

England needed that bit of magic and they have just got it from Saka with a stunning strike.

He is 25 yards out and just decides to have a crack, and what a crack it is. he smashes the ball into the bottom corner via the post.

Game on!

It has taken England conceding for Gareth Southgate to make changes.

He is making a triple substitution. Eberechi Eze, Cole Palmer, and Luke Shaw are all coming on.

Jude Bellingham's number is up, but he is not coming off...

It turns out Ezri Konsa is one of the three to make way, not Bellingham.

Can these changes make a difference, or is it too late?

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

England are punished once again!

Breel Embolo prods home from close range to send the Switzerland fans behind the goal bonkers.

You can't say they don't deserve it. Embolo has kept going at it and gets his reward.

John Stones gets a touch on Dan Ndoye's cross, but it's not enough to prevent Embolo from breaking the deadlock.

England are still yet to have a shot on target, they have not threatened the goal once this half.

From a promising start back to what we have seen all tournament.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

Gareth Southgate really needs to inject some life into this team, they are miles off it at the moment.

Anthony Gordon or Cole Palmer are surely candidates to spice things up.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

Harry Kane has been booked and he can't believe it.

The England captain is shown a yellow for raising an arm on Manuel Akanji.

That feels a bit harsh.

Ooooft, now that's a chance!

Michel Aebischer sees his name in lights as the ball drops from the sky in his direction on the edge of the area.

He swings his boot to meet it on the volley, and the ball dips just high and wide.

That could have gone anywhere.

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

Switzerland are deciding to make a double change.

Steven Zuber and Silvan Widmer are the two men who have been called upon.

Fabian Rieder and Ruben Vargas make way.

Still no changes from England, though.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

England have reverted to what they know, sitting deep.

They just can't get out, all the attacking urgency is coming from those in red.

A tough period for Gareth Southgate's men.

All the noise coming from the stands in Dusseldorf is from the mouths of Switzerland supporters.

Their belief is growing stronger, as is their teams...

They win a corner after good work from Dan Ndoye, and then they win yet another one.

The pressure is building.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

* Kane to score winner in 61st minute.

Ezri Konsa is dealing with Breel Embolo very, very well.

Once again, he battles with the striker as a cross is ent their direction, and the Aston Villa man manages to get his head there first to deny Embolo.

If I'm honest, Switzerland are starting to carry a bit more of a threat now.

Harry Kane is really struggling to get into this game.

To me, he just doesn't look fit. We know he can move around and make runs, but he isn't making them.

Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham don't have options when they get the ball, at the moment.

Piers Morgan is not very happy.

I must admit, the snail-pace comment is pretty accurate, the pace of this game has been extremely slow.

It hasn't changed after the break.

We have our first shot on target, I repeat, we have our first shot on target!

It's from Switzerland, and it comes from the boot of Breel Embolo. He holds the ball up well under pressure from Ezri Konsa, but his strike leaves little to be desired.

Konsa then looks in pain but is OK to continue.

Ruben Vargas is rolling around on the floor after being clipped by Kyle Walker.

I'm not quite sure it warrants the reaction he is giving, but he gets the foul anyway.

Jude Bellingham has taken matters into his own hands.

He drives at the Switzerland backline and they are backtracking, but his final ball doesn't find Harry Kane.

Bukayo Saka then decides to have a go when the ball falls to him, but yet again there is a Swiss body in the way.

The ball is rolling again in Dusseldorf.

England fans try and rally their team by belting out the national anthem as proceedings begin again.

Will we see some more attacking threat in this half?

Yikes... this is not good reading.

That first half did not yield a single shot on target from either side. It wasn't the most thrilling of games.

It's only the second time this has happened at the European Championship since 1996.

You can always count on England, eh?

I think these photos sum up the emotions of England fans during that first half.

Fans in the Dusseldorf fan park haven't had too much to cheer about, but they aren't looking as glum as they were last Sunday.

Maybe they will be able to jump about after the break?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

What will Prince William have made of that first half?

The Prince of Wales is in Dusseldorf watching the Three |lions against Switzerland, and going by this picture he is unimpressed.

Also in attendance are many of the England players' partners, including Jordan Pickford's wife Megan Davison, and Bukayo Saka's girlfriend Tolami Benson.

Tolami can certainly be proud of her partner's contributions, so far.

No added time, that tells the story.

England have improved massively from their performance against Slovakia, they are controlling this match.

But, their possession is still yet to bring any big chances.

They will still need to step it up a notch in the second half.

Granit Xhaka to the rescue for Switzerland!

Finally, England burst into life and unsurprisingly it's Bukayo Saka that leads the charge.

He drives into the area and cuts it back for Kobbie Mainoo, but before he can pull the trigger from six yards out, Xhaka slides in to deny him.

A goal-saving tackle.

Did anybody else watch last night's match between France and Portugal?

Well, somehow this game is giving it a run for its money for being one of the most boring quarter-finals I have ever seen.

The pace has slowed down to walking.

Mike Keegan, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

The positiveness around this performance seems to be dwindling.

the last few minutes have brought little other than spells of possession from both teams.

I hope this doesn't turn into another snooze-fest, but it's looking that way.

Get your pillows at the ready, everyone.

Does anybody remember Raphinha's goal for Leeds away at Newcastle a couple of years ago?

Well Jude Bellingham has just tried to dummy Bukayo Saka's cross to fool Yann Sommer, but it takes a deflection off his leg.

Not quite the effective leave that Rodrigo did at St James' Park.

Erm, how is that not a handball?

Remo Freuler turns into a goalkeeper to stop an England cross just outside the area, but somehow the referee waves play on.

I mean, how he has missed that I have no clue.

Specsavers may have a new client soon.

We have our first booking of the evening, and it goes to the Swiss.

Fabian Schar is the unlucky recipient as he hacks down Jude Bellingham.

He moans about it, but I'm not sure why. It is a deserved booking.

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

You can hear the moans and groans from the England end as a Three Lions corner ends up all the way back at Jordan Pickford.

I mean it's fair, it's very frustrating for fans to see a corner wasted like that.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

Bukayo Saka is England's biggest threat by a mile.

he beats his man on the right-hand side and drives into the box, and again he fires a ball into the danger area.

But yet again, there is no one there...

Kobbie Mainoo gets away with one there.

the midfielder has been a bright spark early on, but he takes a poor touch outside the England box and gives the ball away.

But in the process, he is clattered by Granit Xhaka and wins a free-kick.

While England are looking lively, they are still yet to have tested Yann Sommer.

That has been the story of England's tournament, they just don't take enough shots.

Go for it!

Where are you, Harry Kane?

Bukayo Saka gets through on the left and looks up for an England shirt to find in the area, but there are none there.

He still decides to fire the ball in, and it's cleared, but he shows his discontent at the lack of movement.

Kane should have been breaking his back to get in the six-yard box, but he was ambling,

Kyle Walker is defending a lot better today than he did against Slovakia, that's for sure.

He wins a free-kick in his own box after managing to get in front of Remo Freuler.

A much-needed intervention.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

Kobbie Mainoo now decides it's his turn to have a crack from outside the area.

Harry Kane cuts it back for the Manchester United man to run on to, and he duly obliges, but his effort is blocked.

The ball then goes back into the path of Kane who goes down under the challenge of Fabian Schar.

He wants a penalty, but he is never getting one for that.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

England are looking much better today!

They are pinning Switzerland back at the moment, and Declan Rice decides to stop the dilly-dallying and just have a pop.

It's not the best of efforts, though, it's deflected wide.

Breel Embolo is a strong lad, isn't he?

He shrugs off Declan Rice with ease in the box, sending him to the floor.

But luckily for England, his end product is not up to scratch. I think he was offside anyway.

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

Positive signs early on from England.

Bukayo Saka looks to get in behind and he is found, but the flag is up, he is offside.

The fact England are trying to get in behind is a good sign though.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

Phil Foden is getting into the thick of it already.

Everything is going through him in the 10 role, and the ball is then shifted out to Bukayo Saka.

The Arsenal man whips a ball into the back post but it beats everybody.

I'm still trying to work out what the formation is.

I have concluded that it is a back three with Wing-backs, but Kieran Tripper is on the left and Bukayo Saka on the right.

Trippier is dropping very deep, though.

Well, maybe there isn't a system change?

Kieran Trippier is lining up on the left-hand side, while Bukayo Saka looks like he is on the right wing.

Interesting move...

The waiting is over, we are underway in Dusseldorf.

England take the kick-off to an almighty roar, the atmosphere in this stadium is simply electric.

Can England use it to their advantage?

Are the England players not hot in those jackets?

Not only is the sun out in Dusseldorf, but as a fashion choice, I'm not sure they are the best...

That doesn't matter, though, all that matters is the football on display.

The anthems are now complete, and as always 'God Save the King' was belted out beautifully.

Now we are just moments away from kick-off...

This build-up is getting me pumped.

The Pyro is on display, the England fans are making themselves heard, and now the teams are coming out.

In addition, the sun has decided to come out.

Will it shine on the Three Lions today?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

Friends and family of the England squad are starting to take their seats.

Among them are Jude Bellingham's parents. I wonder how they felt after their son's late equaliser?

They don't look like they are feeling very happy right now...

What will be going through this man's head, right now?

This is arguably the biggest match of Ezri Konsa's professional career, so there will surely be some nerves.

But he will have to shake them off as quickly as possible.

If he plays anywhere close to the level Marc Guehi has been, England should be just fine.

Topless England fans have been spotted inside the stadium with kick-off approaching.

Golfer and football fanatic Ian Poulter has also been seen taking selfies with fans!

Chris Sutton, It's All Kicking Off! co-host, on BBC Radio 5 Live:

The nerves amongst England fans are nearly at peak levels.

The Three Lions are coming to the end of their final preparations now, and then we wait.

Can we expect something a little bit different today?

Surely, it can't get any worse...

Gareth Southgate, England boss, speaking to BBC One:

On the formation change:

Where to start?

This Switzerland side is stacked with talent, it's their strongest team in years.

The stalwart Granit Xhaka is still producing performances of the highest standard.

But it's young stars such as Dan Ndoye and Ruben Vargas that have caught my eye this tournament.

Going forward, they are electric.

They are a well-oiled machine and will cause England a paramount of problems.

The noise has just gone up a gear in Dusseldorf.

The stadium is packed already as the players take to the turf for their warm-ups, and the atmosphere is just building and building.

So far, it's the Swiss fans who have been more impressive...

Oliver Holt, Mail Sport Chief Sports Writer, in Dusseldorf:

Phil Foden, England midfielder, speaking to BBC One:

On confidence of breaking down the Swiss:

Mike Keegan, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

This England fan will not be making the same mistake twice.

This is why you should never leave a match early, he paid for his mistake.

I'm sure England fans will be hoping the Three Lions do not need a late equaliser today...

Photos of fans going to the game are starting to filter through, and I thought I'd pick out the best outfits.

Well, the first one is not an outfit. I just love the photo and the passion too. I hope it's not too chilly in Dusseldorf.

As for the cow outfits, need I say any more...

A penny for Trent Alexander-Arnold's thoughts, right now.

He seems the perfect fit for the right-wing-back role. It would be the more adventurous and effective choice to put him in the side.

But instead, Gareth Southgate has gone for his trusted Kieran Trippier.

Yes, alexander-Arnold had his chance in the middle, but now a position has opened up that he could excel in, and he doesn't;t get the chance.

Imagine his frustration.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

Gareth Southgate really does have faith in his side, doesn't he?

While yes, it seems he is switching up the formation, there is only one change to the personnel.

If Marc Guehi wasn't suspended, he would most likely be starting as well.

Maybe the formation change is all that is needed, though.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Dusseldorf:

We are never wrong, are we?

The line-up is exactly as Mail Sport predicted, with Gareth Southgate moving to a back three.

Ezri Konsa is the only change, coming in for Marc Guehi who is out through suspension, to make his tournament debut.

Happy with this, England fans?

When it ain't broke, don't fix it.

Unsurprisingly, Murat Yakin has decided to keep his faith in the 11 that swept aside Italy in the last 16.

Granit Xhaka and Manuel Akanji will all be familiar with many of their opponents.

They won't be scared...

the excitement for this one just went up a notch.

Gareth Southgate and his boys have just arrived at the Dusseldorf Arena ahead of their crunch match with the Swiss.

It's fair to say they are all looking fairly laid back, which I guess is a good sign if you are an England fan.

With the players now on location, we will be able to bring you the team news in just a few minutes.

Wow, look at the sheer volume of England fans.

The Three Lions supporters who haven't been able to get tickets for the game have headed to the Fan Zone in Dusseldorf.

It seems vibrant in there, it's making me very jealous.

I bet they all wish they were in the ground, though...

Jamie Carragher, former England defender, speaking on Sky Sports:

England fans are out in full force as they take to the pub before kick-off.

These supporters below appear to be in good spirits as they pose for group pictures.

I'm not quite sure what to make of the Aquaman costume though...

It all looks so peaceful, doesn't it?

Well, the Dusseldorf Arena will not be this quiet for long. fans of both sides are already making their way in.

In just over 90 minutes time, this will be a cauldron of noise, you will barely be able to hear yourself think.

I wish I could fast forward life to that moment.

Mike is right, Dusseldorf is heaving with Switzerland fans.

The Swiss are making themselves heard as they embark on a walk to the Dusseldorf Arena.

The chants are being belted out, there are smiles on faces, and its a sea of red.

I imagine the atmosphere will be top-notch tonight. You just know the English will bring their A-game too.

This has got me even more amped up!

Mike Keegan, Mail Sport, in Dusseldorf:

Right then, it looks like Gareth Southgate is set to go with two attacking midfielders.

People have been screaming out for Phil Foden to move more central. Well, it seems people will get their wish.

He will be next to the ever-present Jude Bellingham just behind Harry Kane. What a front three.

We are unsure how it will work out as we have not seen it before, but the idea of it is pretty exciting.

With Bukayo Saka in the team as well, the attacking talent on display will be up there with the very best.

Will it gel?

We will have to see.

We have been talking about the potential line-up... here it is.

Mail Sport has put together the most probable England line-up tonight based on information from within the England camp.

Ezri Konsa is set to start, with Kieran Trippier beating Trent Alexander-Arnold to the right-wing back spot.

Kobbie Mainoo is set to keep his space next to Declan Rice, while there will be two number 10s - Phil Foden and Jude Bellingham.

Would you be happy with this?

We've seen droves of England fans sinking pints in Dusseldorf, but it's worth sparing a thought for how the supporters of today's opponents are preparing for the game.

Swiss fans can be seen in action below in their very own way - as one man gorges himself on fondue.

I know what I'd rather...

Gareth Southgate, England manager, speaking on Friday:

Wow, time flies doesn't it.

I can remember exactly where I was when England were knocked out by Iceland at Euro 2016, in what proved to be the end for Roy Hodgson.

The Three Lions have now had nearly eight years of Gareth Southgate at the helm. It's been a rollercoaster.

When England take to the Dusseldorf turf later it will be Southgate's 100th match in charge.

Can he mark it with a monumental win?

Now this is a debate I have been seeing over the past few days.

With Gareth Southgate expected to move to a back three with wing-backs, the right wing-back spot has been a topic of discussion.

The two candidates: Kieran Trippier and Trent Alexander-Arnold.

So, who should Southgate go with?

They are two very different players. Alexander-Arnold seems tailor-made for the position. His attacking exploits will be a real benefit to the side.

But Trippier's defensive qualities do fit the bill of what Southgate looks for in a full-back, and with Bukayo Saka potentially on the left-hand side, he may provide more balance.

We have predicted that Trippier will be given the nod, but do you think that would be the right decision?

I want to hear from you in the comments.

Rio Ferdinand, former England defender, speaking on BBC Radio 5 Live:

So there are many talking points when it comes to England's starting line-up.

With Gareth Southgate expected to go with a back three, there will be a re-shuffle of the pack that we have rarely seen in this tournament.

One of the new faces in the line-up could be Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa.

With Marc Guehi missing today's match through suspension, it has been reported that Konsa will start on the left of a back three.

He has big boots to fill as Guehi has arguably been England's most impressive player at these championships.

Does he have what it takes?

Southgate certainly thinks so it seems.

Darren Anderton, former England midfielder, speaking exclusively to Mail Sport via NetBet Online Casino:

Things can only get better, right?

As we have reported, it looks like Gareth Southgate will be reverting to a back three this evening - like the good old days.

Things just have not been working so far this tournament with a back four, and it felt inevitable that change would come.

Is it the right change though?

Personally, I believe so. We all saw the difference it made when Southgate switched to the formation against Slovakia.

What do you all think?

Thank you Ben for holding the fort!

It feels great to be back behind the keyboard for a big England game, it feels like forever since I last was.

So, how are we all feeling?

There are just under three hours until the ball is rolling in Dusseldorf, and England's quarter-final against Switzerland gets underway.

Plenty of time to get you hyped for it!

The magnitude of tonight's game for Gareth Southgate cannot be overstated, with the Three Lions boss in desperate need of finding the right formula after three lethargic matches so for in Germany.

But it seems, after several calls to change his system, Southgate is finally prepared to roll the dice on a new shape in order to get the best out of his side. Succeed, and it could take England all the way.

Mail Sport's chief reporter Oliver Holt takes a deeper look at the gamble Southgate is taking - and how it could liberate the Three Lions. Read more below.

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Also - my colleague Harry Bamforth has now arrived and is ready to take over after waiting patiently in the wings for a few minutes, so he'll take you through the remainder of our live coverage for England vs Switzerland today.

Over to you, Harry!

With England set to go with a new 3-4-3 formation, with Bellingham and Foden as No 10s behind Kane, it looks as though Micah Richards won't get his wish.

The ex-Man City star said yesterday that England could 'hurt' Switzerland with two of three wingers on each flank - and as it stands only one of those is set to start.

For those who've made the trip to Germany to watch England this evening, sometimes you just need to get your rest in while you can.

These England supporters got their shut-eye on the train from Hamburg to Dusseldorf, with one fan creatively opting to lie underneath the seats to grab a better kip.

They'll no doubt wake up refreshed and raring to go a little later on - provided they don't oversleep and miss their stop...

Hopefully England can book their place in the semi-finals and give these chaps a reason to party the whole night long!

England fans and Gareth Southgate breathed a huge sigh of relief yesterday when it was announced that Jude Bellingham would be free to play against Switzerland following UEFA's probe into his crotch-grabbing celebration.

Although the England midfielder, who rescued his side with a stunning overhead kick against Slovakia, urged that his celebration was an in-joke between friends, UEFA decided to dish out a £25,000 fine and a suspended one match ban.

Fortunately, Bellingham can opt to serve this suspension after the European Championships, meaning he will be eligible to face the Swiss a little later on.

For more on the investigation and UEFA's decision, read Mail Sport's full story below.

Who's hot - and who's not? Craig Hope and Matt Barlow assess how each player has fared at Euro 2024 so far. Read below.

John Stones had fans worried when he came out to train with heavy strapping on earlier in the week - but the Man City centre-back looks more than up to speed in footage released by England's social media account today.

Just look at that strike!

With Ezri Konsa set to step in in place of suspended Marc Guehi against Switzerland, this no doubt marks the biggest day of the Aston Villa star's career so far.

A versatile defender who at times played at right-back under Unai Emery last season, Konsa has finally managed to rivet Southgate's gaze and become an important component in the international set-up.

It is understood that Konsa will operate on the left of England's back three today alongside Stones and Walker, which provides a test for the defender as he usually operates on the right-hand side.

Mail Sport's Tom Collomosse takes a look at how Konsa journeyed from being coached by England legend John Terry to starting at the back for the Three Lions.

Take a look below...

There's no denying Switzerland have been very impressive so far this tournament, and they've emerged the dark horses of Euro 2024 after triumphing over reigning champions Italy in the last-16.

Blessed with a well-balanced armoury of players including Granit Xhaka, Manuel Akanji and Yann Sommer, the Swiss pose a significant threat and, unlike England, seem to have their tactics nailed under Murat Yakin.

Mail Sport's Ian Herbert has taken a look at how Switzerland plan to hurt England this afternoon - and what Gareth Southgate needs to watch out for.

Read more below.

We're just over four hours from kick-off and England's travelling fans are taking to the streets of Dusseldorf to show their support of Southgate's troops.

Let's hope there's even more reason to fly the flag after tonight's match!

Gareth Southgate reaches his 100th game in charge of England today and that's some achievement considering the pressure that comes with this job.

Of his 99 matches so far, Southgate has won 60, drawn 23 and lost 16 - taking the Three Lions to a European Championship final and a World Cup semi-final.

But the Three Lions boss would etch his name further into the history books with a trophy.

Winning the tournament would do everything for his legacy. Fall short today, and there will be many fans desperate for England to start a new chapter without him.

Whether you've hardly paid attention to the Euros so far or have simply been living under a rock, this quick update of England's journey in Germany should get you up to speed.

England 1-0 Serbia

The Three Lions opened the tournament with a 1-0 win against Serbia, edging out the match thanks to Jude Bellingham's early opener and limiting Aleksandar Mitrovic and Co to a dearth of opportunities.

England 1-1 Denmark

Next up was Denmark, who went 1-0 behind after Harry Kane prodded the ball home early in the first half. But a stunning wonderstrike from Morten Hjulmand drew the Danes level and England ultimately failed to create enough to earn more than their 1-1 draw.

England 0-0 Slovenia

After a week of intense criticism, England needed to inspire hope with a strong performance against Slovenia - but fans were even more disappointed after their limp and lacklustre display ended in a 0-0 stalemate.

England 2-1 Slovakia

Topping the group, the Three Lions faced Slovakia next in the last-16 and were dealt a real scare after the underdogs took the lead in the first half. England prodded and probed but created nothing of note - until Jude Bellingham rescued his side with a sublime overhead kick in the 95th minute.

Harry Kane's header in extra time gave England the 2-1 win they needed to advance to the quarter-finals. And that's where we are today...

This is how Southgate's stars performed last time out:

Word from the England camp this week is that Gareth Southgate is set to name a back three against Switzerland in a bid to find the right formula in Germany - something that has eluded them so far.

With the left-hand side causing huge problems in the absence of naturally left-footed full-back Luke Shaw, Southgate has so far trusted Kieran Trippier as his deputy.

The Newcastle star hasn't done poorly by any stretch, but his right-footed style has limited England significantly on that side, especially with left winger Phil Foden drifting inside into central areas.

As the 3-4-3 has worked well for the manager in previous tournaments, Southgate is preparing to shake things up and go back to a back three. It's expected that Trippier will switch to the right side and Bukayo Saka will operate in a left wing-back role.

But will it provide a solution for England? Only time will tell...

Good afternoon!

Today is a huge day for England, with Gareth Southgate's side just three wins away from Euro 2024 glory.

The Three Lions have not looked convincing so far in Germany but have a favourable draw to get to the final, even though Switzerland today still pose a major threat in the quarter-finals.

I'll be here over the next few hours to build-up to the 5pm kick-off, bringing all the latest news and updates from the England camp, before handing over to my colleague Harry Bamforth for the live action and post-match reaction.

Who are you backing to make the semi-finals?