Harry Kane explained why he was sure England would beat Switzerland in penalty shootouts.
England captain Harry Kane celebrated Arsenal winger Bukayo Saka for his mental fortitude to step up and score in the penalty shootout against Switzerland despite the outcome of his last penalty for England.
Saka drew England level in regular time to force extra time and, subsequently, penalties. England won through penalties and advanced to the semi-finals of the European Championships. The Three Lions captain stated that he was confident about the outcome, citing the number of primary penalty-takers they have.
23:10 - 06.07.2024
He was phenomenal — Southgate singles out Saka for praise
England boss Gareth Southgate sang the praises of Bukayo Saka.
21:55 - 06.07.2024
EURO 2024: Netherlands roar back to beat Turkey and book semi-final against England
The Netherlands complete the final four of the European Championships, after sealing a comeback victory against Turkey.
What Kane said
Saka was a victim of racism after he missed a penalty in the Euros final against Italy. Kane praised his guts for stepping up this time. He also hailed his team's ability to grab a win regardless of their performance.
“That's tournament football for you,” Kane started, per the BBC. “You have to find a way. When you look at past champions in competitions, they have to go through penalty shootouts. It comes down to moments.
“For Saka to step up and score that goal was special for him. I was weirdly calm during penalties. We have a lot more players that take them for their club. I know they are comfortable and know Pickford normally saves one.
"I think penalty shootouts are the highest pressure you will feel as a professional footballer. But for him [Sak] to step up like he did after the tough time he had been through [in 2020]. I am really proud of him and proud of everyone. There is one week left. We will see how far we can go."
Related content
23:10 - 06.07.2024
He was phenomenal — Southgate singles out Saka for praise
England boss Gareth Southgate sang the praises of Bukayo Saka.
22:53 - 06.07.2024
Tolami Benson: Bukayo Saka stunning girlfriend celebrates his MOTM performance days after kissing him at the Euros
Tolami Benson has continued to show her public support for the Arsenal star since the start of the Euros.
19:43 - 06.07.2024
EURO 2024 QUARTER-FINAL DRAMA: England survive penalties against dogged Swiss as Saka makes history
England have qualified for the semifinal of the EURO 2024 after a penalty shootout win against Switzerland.