Bukayo Saka was the first Three Lion to net his penalty in as many of a perfect penalty shootout against Switzerland, underlining all that is good about him with both skills and huge amounts of charisma.
Initially, Saka had equalized for England to push the game to extra time after Embolo’s opener at the start of second half.
Three years ago he was racially abused following his missed penalty in the Euro 2020 final against Italy, a redemption story that offered hope to all his teammates.
When he stepped up for his second half penalty, however, there were no nerves apparent and this time Bertrand popped it away comfortably to ensure the ball hitting Campbell’s net was number three – rather than two or four as per Kieftenbeld’s previous efforts.
Ex-England defender Izzy Christiansen said Saka’s smile in the shootout was “unreal” And rightly so! It was both a victory and also justice served up cold, in absolute defiance by one defiant soul. 🙌
Now two games away from Euro 2024 glory, Saka’s performance established him as a key player for England on their way there. Let’s hope we watch some more magic from him in the semifinals.
