England U21 Roars to European Championship Final with Perfect Display: Crushing Israel U21 3-0!
England U21s make history, securing a spot in the European Championship final after a dominant 3-0 win over Israel It's their first final appearance since 2009, showcasing their impressive form in Georgia What's next for these Young Lions?
England secured their place in the European U21 Championship final for the first time since 2009 after a commanding 3-0 triumph over Israel in Georgia. Despite their victory in 1984, the Young Lions continued their impressive winning run in the tournament, progressing to the final by comfortably defeating Israel. They now await their showdown in the final on Saturday against either Spain or Ukraine.
Morgan Gibbs-White redeemed himself for an early penalty miss by scoring a header to put England in the lead three minutes before halftime at the Batumi Arena.
Cole Palmer effectively secured England's victory over Israel when he doubled their lead just after the hour mark, despite a lengthy VAR check for offside.
Substitute Cameron Archer sealed their passage to the final with an emphatic third in the 90th minute as England maintained their flawless record to reach the final.
Young Lions one step for U21 history
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Gibbs-White celebrates as he scores the first goal for his team in the semi-final of the Euro U21 Championship. The Young Lions, who had previously defeated Israel 2-0 in the group stage, were optimistic. Levi Colwill headed Gibbs-White's early free-kick, but they missed a chance to take the lead when Gibbs-White failed to convert a penalty in the 17th minute.
VAR took four minutes to confirm that Anthony Gordon was fouled by Karm Jaber. This happened after Emile Smith Rowe's shot was cleared off the line and hit the post, and Gibbs-White subsequently missed a shot wide. Despite England's frustration, Israel's belief was boosted. However, Carsley's men remained composed, and Gibbs-White made up for his miss three minutes before halftime.
The Nottingham Forest midfielder ghosted in late to reach Palmer's delivery and rose between two Israel defenders to nod the ball into the top corner from 12 yards.
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England's players celebrate doubling their lead after VAR rules in favour of Cole Palmer
Israel declined to exert pressure, allowing England to retain possession without much forward movement. The situation continued in England's favor following the commencement of the second half. Smith Rowe's shot lacked precision, while Gordon's attempt was deflected wide. Eventually, after 64 minutes, Palmer successfully increased the lead.
Gibbs-White discovered Smith Rowe, who delivered a cross for Palmer, a forward from Manchester City, to convert. However, the goal was initially disallowed due to an offside call. Following a lengthy VAR review, England benefitted once again as Smith Rowe was declared onside, resulting in the goal being allowed.
