Kobbie Mainoo issues challenge to England teammates after Euro 2024 semi-final win

Kobbie Mainoo said it is 'time to put us in history' after England came from behind to beat the Netherlands in their Euro 2024 semi-final.

The Three Lions reached the tournament final in dramatic fashion on Wednesday evening. Xavi Simons scored an early goal for the Oranje, finding the net with a rocket from the edge of the box, but this was quickly cancelled out by a controversial Harry Kane penalty.

For a third successive game, it appeared extra-time was looming for England, but this time Ollie Watkins came off the bench to score a 90th-minute winner to snatch the victory.

Speaking to BBC Radio 5 Live, Mainoo couldn't contain his joy, though while he is thrilled for what England have accomplished this tournament, admitted they still have a final against Spain to play on Sunday.

"It is in indescribable feeling, we are all buzzing!" Mainoo said.

"It has been such a journey and we have built on old performances, the only way is up - time to put us in history.

"In the first half it was clicking with the whole team. We felt like we had the game under control in the middle of the park.

"The second half we had to grind it out, it was tough. The whole squad was a help, the impact from Ollie - what a finish! The time was coming for him, I could feel it.

"They [Spain] are a good squad, but will be ready for that."

Mainoo has been one of the breakout stars of Euro 2024, rounding off an astounding debut campaign at senior level having played a starring role for Manchester United during the season.

England boss Gareth Southgate began the tournament with right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold in midfield alongside Declan Rice, but abandoned this 'experiment' after two games and swapped in Conor Gallagher for their final group stage fixture. But since then, Mainoo has partnered Rice and put in a series of impressive displays.

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