England booked their place in the Euro 2024 final on Wednesday night with a 2-1 victory over the Netherlands.
While the Dutch got the match off to a fiery start, with Xavi Simmons handing them a seventh-minute lead courtesy of a sublime goal from distance, it was soon England who controlled proceedings.
In the 18th minute, Denzel Dumfries was adjudged to have fouled Harry Kane, handing England a penalty. Kane coolly slotted the ball into the bottom left corner out of the keeper’s reach to level the scoreline.
For most of the second half, it was a tedious game of football, with neither side showing much aggression or intent to threaten the other’s goalmouth. Still, it was England who came up with the goods.
In what has become the norm throughout the tournament, England produced a late goal when substitute Ollie Watkins hit a sensational low shot across the face of goal towards the far-post, sealing the win for the Three Lions. But while he may have grabbed the headlines, Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo proved to be England’s core midfielder who truly held the team together.
Looking at his physicality, Mainoo was at the top of his game, winning all three of his ground duels on the night. This included a solid tackle on Cody Gakpo high up the field which the teenager followed up from with a shot that was ultimately blocked.
With the ball at his feet, Mainoo could do little wrong. He made 51 touches and completed 36 of his 42 passes while also completing both of his long ball attempts. In addition, he made one key pass.
All in all, it was another impressive display from Mainoo, who once again proved why he is deserving of a spot in Gareth Southgate’s starting XI.
Both England and United may feel secure knowing they have a dependable center midfielder who can control the play and lead his team to victory if he keeps performing at this caliber.
While United supporters will be curious to watch how the young player handles one of football’s biggest platforms, England supporters will undoubtedly be thrilled to see what Mainoo can accomplish against Spain in the Euro 2024 final.
