Introduction

On a historic night at Wembley Stadium, England secured their first major international tournament victory in over 55 years by defeating Italy in the final of Euro 2020. The road to the final was not an easy one for Gareth Southgate's men, as they faced some tough opposition along the way. In this article, we will take a look at how England became champions of Europe and the key moments that led to their triumph.

Group Stage

England began their campaign in the tournament with a group stage that consisted of matches against Croatia, Scotland, and the Czech Republic. The Three Lions started brightly with a 1-0 victory over Croatia, with Raheem Sterling scoring the goal. However, they were held to a goalless draw by Scotland in the next game, before securing their place in the knockout stages with a 1-0 win over the Czech Republic. It was a solid start for England, but they were yet to hit their straps.

Round of 16

England faced their first real challenge in the knockout stages as they took on Germany in the round of 16. It was a match that had the potential to go either way, with both teams having some top-class players. However, it was England who came out on top, thanks to a brace from Raheem Sterling and a goal from Harry Kane. The win over Germany was a significant moment for England's campaign and gave them the confidence needed to push on.

Quarter-finals

England faced Ukraine in the quarter-finals, and they produced one of their best performances of the tournament. Harry Kane scored twice, with Harry Maguire and Jordan Henderson also getting on the scoresheet, as England secured a 4-0 victory. The win over Ukraine showed the world that England had what it takes to go all the way, and the fans began to believe that this could be their year.

Semi-finals

England faced Denmark in the semi-finals, and it was a closely contested match. Denmark took the lead through a stunning free-kick from Mikkel Damsgaard, but England fought back through an own goal from Simon Kjaer. The game went to extra time, but it was England who secured their place in the final, thanks to a controversial penalty decision. Harry Kane scored the penalty to send England to their first major final since winning the World Cup in 1966.

Final

England faced Italy in the final, and it was a tense affair that went all the way to penalties. England took the lead early on, thanks to a Luke Shaw goal, but Italy fought back and equalized in the second half. The game went into extra time, but neither team was able to find a winner, and it went to penalties. It was a nerve-wracking shootout, but England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made two crucial saves, while Marcus Rashford, Jadon Sancho, and Bukayo Saka all scored, as England won 3-2 on penalties.

Conclusion

England's triumph in Euro 2020 is a moment that will go down in history. The team showed character, determination, and skill throughout the tournament and proved that they are one of the best teams in the world. Gareth Southgate and his players deserve all the plaudits for what they have achieved, and they have given the country something to be proud of. England has finally ended its long wait for a major tournament victory, and now the players can look forward to the future with confidence and optimism.