England triumphed over Switzerland in a dramatic 5-3 penalty shootout to safe their place within the semi-finals of Euro 2024.
Regardless of their lacklustre performances all through the event, the Three Lions have discovered themselves only one step away from the ultimate.
Gareth Southgate has confronted vital criticism for his techniques, participant administration, and lack of ability to maximise the potential of England’s golden era. Nevertheless, his group has managed to persevere, establishing a semi-final conflict in opposition to the Netherlands.
The extremely anticipated match between England and the Netherlands is scheduled to kick off at 8 pm on Wednesday, July 10, on the Westfalenstadion, residence of Borussia Dortmund.
Issues over match referee
Nevertheless, there is perhaps some early concern for England relating to the match referee. Felix Zwayer, a referee with a controversial previous, will oversee the sport.
In keeping with the Every day Mail, Zwayer has a historical past of match-fixing, having been banned for six months in 2005 for accepting a €300 (£253.82) bribe from fellow referee Robert Hoyzer.
Zwayer’s historical past with England star Jude Bellingham provides one other layer of stress. In 2021, Bellingham, then at Borussia Dortmund, publicly criticised Zwayer after a controversial defeat to Bayern Munich, questioning his credibility on stay TV.
Bellingham said:
“You may take a look at lots of the choices within the recreation. You give a referee, that has match-fixed earlier than, the most important recreation in Germany. What do you count on?”
Following these feedback, Bellingham was fined €40,000 (£33,843) and investigated by German police, whereas Zwayer took a two-month break from officiating.
I’m not certain what UEFA are pondering by placing Zwayer on the England-game.
Again in 2021 Bellingham instructed me this after the sport.
And was fined €40,000 by German soccer officers@ViaplayFotball https://t.co/g9g60Yu4iq— Jan Aage Fjørtoft ?? (@JanAageFjortoft) July 8, 2024
All eyes on the officiating
With Zwayer set to referee the semi-final, any controversial selections might spark vital backlash and questions on his appointment for such a crucial match.
The main target will probably be on making certain a good and clear recreation, as England seeks to beat the Netherlands and advance to the Euro 2024 closing.
