The Prince of Wales praised Ollie Watkins’ crucial goal as England advanced to the Euro 2024 final, with Prince William, a devoted Aston Villa supporter, commenting: “What a magnificent goal, Ollie! Congratulations England! #EURO2024 Finalists W.”
Meanwhile, King Charles urged Gareth Southgate’s team to secure victory without needing last-minute heroics or penalty drama to ease the nation’s collective stress.
Following England’s semi-final triumph over The Netherlands on Wednesday night, Charles personally messaged the England boss: “My wife and I, along with all our family, extend our warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the UEFA European Championship – and we send our very best wishes for Sunday’s match.”
“If I may encourage you to secure victory without the need for any last-minute heroics or penalties,” he added, “I am confident it would greatly relieve the stresses on the nation’s collective heart rate and blood pressure! Good luck, England.” The message was signed off with Charles R.
The Three Lions initially fell behind to a Xavi Simons goal in the seventh minute, but equalized through a controversial Harry Kane penalty, verified by VAR, ten minutes later. Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins then clinched a 90th-minute winner to secure England’s spot in the final against Spain on Sunday.
William, due to prior commitments, was unable to attend the semi-final in person. Previously, he had shown animated support at the Dusseldorf Arena in Germany during England’s tense quarter-final clash against Switzerland last Saturday.