Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka kept his place in the England starting XI for their Euro 2024 semi-final clash against the Netherlands.
The two sides met in Dortmund with the right to take on Spain in the final of the competition on the line. A 2-1 win was enough for the Three Lions to progress.
Bukayo Saka will have been full of confidence heading into this fixture. The Arsenal man was the nation’s hero in the previous round, as his strike from range and cool finish from the penalty spot in the shootout helped the Three Lions overcome Switzerland. England legend David Beckham was quick to praise Saka after that match.
Saka started well against the Dutch, too, offering plenty of energy and attacking endeavour from his right-wing-back berth. It was the 22-year-old’s driving run into the box which ultimately saw the ball come to Harry Kane, who was then fouled and awarded a penalty in the 18th minute.
As a team, England were more aggressive and adventurous in their play throughout the opening period, which suited Saka.
Saka thought he’d put the Three Lions ahead with 80 minutes on the clock, but his smart finish from close range was ruled out due to a narrow offside call against Kyle Walker in the build up.
England fans appreciate efforts of Arsenal star Bukayo Saka v the Netherlands
England supporters during the match and after the final whistle were heaping praise on Saka for his performance in the semi-final.
One supporter said: “It’s actually comical how much better Bukayo Saka is than everyone else on the pitch at all times, no matter where he’s asked to play.”
An Arsenal and England fan added: “One things for sure Bukayo Saka is the face of English football!”
One commented: “Rio is right. Bukayo Saka is the most important England player at the moment. He’s just so good.”
Another claimed: “You should give Bukayo Saka the ball everytime you get the opportunity. He is The Man.”
Arsenal planning for Saka return
Mikel Arteta will once again be expecting big things from Saka in the upcoming season. He is a talismanic figure at the Emirates Stadium and will be required to hit the ground running despite his exploits in Germany.
Arteta is already concocting a plan for how to reintegrate Saka at Arsenal, as well as the rest of the players who have taken part in international competitions this summer.
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