Bukayo Saka played a pivotal role in England’s tense quarter-final victory, quickly equalizing after Breel Embolo’s 75th-minute opener and later scoring in the penalty shootout. The former Arsenal teammates, Saka and Xhaka, were seen embracing on the pitch as England advanced to the semi-finals, sending Switzerland home. When asked about eliminating Xhaka, who won the Bundesliga title in his first season at Bayer Leverkusen after leaving Arsenal last summer, ‘Granit has won enough trophies this season!
‘I think he’s an amazing player, an amazing person – the humility he showed after the game to come and shake our hands says it all.
‘I’m full of respect and admiration for him and Switzerland – they really challenged us tonight.”
Despite missing a penalty in England’s heartbreaking Euro 2020 final defeat to Italy, Saka stepped up in the shootout.
England captain Harry Kane praised Saka’s bravery: “He’s one of our best, and we never doubted he would take one. For him to step up after what he went through is huge. We’re still in it, and reaching a third semi-final reflects the strength of our entire team.”
Kane highlighted the pressure involved in penalty shootouts, saying, “It is the utmost pressure you will feel as a professional player.” But for him [Saka] to step up like he did after the tough time he had been through… I am really proud of him and proud of everyone.
There is only one week remaining. We shall see how far we can go.
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