Xavi Simons has given the Netherlands a dream start in their Euro 2024 semi final against England with a blockbuster strike into the top corner.
Simons dispossessed Declan Rice before advancing to the edge of the box and unleashing a brilliant strike into the top corner past Jordan Pickford.
The 21-year-old’s goal saw him become the youngest Dutch player to score in the knockout rounds of a European Championships.
Pickford perhaps could have done better, but this wasn’t the start England had in mind and they now face a really tough task against a well organised Dutch side.
An early goal gives England time to get back into the match and it will be interesting to see if the Dutch push for a second goal or try and protect what they have.
Watch Simons fire the Netherlands ahead
An ???????????? strike ??
Xavi Simons brings pure Dutch delight to Dortmund! ??#Euro2024 | #NEDENG pic.twitter.com/PNKwNbQcUr
— ITV Football (@itvfootball) July 10, 2024