European Football Championship - Southgate rescue at the last minute - "Do everything for him"
The tenure of Gareth Southgate as England's national team manager continues - at least for an additional week. After Jude Bellingham's genius in stoppage time and a very fortunate 2:1 win in extra time against Slovakia, Southgate can indeed look forward to his 100th game as head coach at the European Championship.
"We had this unity today and we would do anything to protect this coach. Keep going and keep fighting! It's an honor to be a part of this," said midfielder Declan Rice after the last-minute comeback. Southgate revealed that he had considered substituting Bellingham during the regular time.
Had England lost against Slovakia, a retirement from Southgate after the team's underpar performance at the European Championship would have been a logical consequence. The 53-year-old had not extended his contract before the tournament, and the end of their era after eight years is approaching. But before that, the team with Bellingham and Captain Harry Kane could still achieve the great triumph and end the 58-year wait for a title.
Guehi will be missing against Switzerland
"We still have a long way to go. I understand that our performances are being questioned. But we have quality that keeps us in the tournament. I am very proud of the players," said Southgate.
In the quarterfinals, the Three Lions will face Switzerland next Saturday (6:00 PM) in Düsseldorf. Defender Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace will then be missing due to two yellow cards.
Data for the game
Gareth Southgate's 100th game as England's manager in the EM will be an international match against Switzerland in the round of sixteen. This victory over Slovakia in Gelsenkirchen, thanks to Jude Bellingham's late goal, has reignited England's hopes in the European Football Championship. Southgate's future with the team, despite not extending his contract before the tournament, seems to be extended due to their performance. England will need to perform well in the remaining matches, including their quarterfinal against Switzerland in Düsseldorf, with defender Marc Guehi missing due to yellow card accumulation.
