England is poised to reach successive European Championship finals as they face the Netherlands in the second Euro 2024 semi-final.
This high-stakes encounter in Dortmund, scheduled for the first hours of 11 July at 1:00 am, will determine who progresses to Sunday's final, where favourites Spain await.
England, under the stewardship of Gareth Southgate, have consistently reached the latter stages of major tournaments but have yet to claim the ultimate prize.
Having narrowly edged past Switzerland in the quarter-finals, England are keen to convert their near-misses into silverware this summer.
Their path to the semi-final has been fraught with challenges.
Despite a late goal from Breel Embolo for Switzerland, Bukayo Saka equalised dramatically to force extra time.
England triumphed in the penalty shootout, with Jordan Pickford's crucial save from Manuel Akanji proving decisive.
This victory followed a similar narrow escape against Slovakia in the previous round.
Southgate's squad, aiming to become the sixth team to reach consecutive European Championship finals, faces a formidable Netherlands side.
The Oranje, led by Ronald Koeman, have also had a challenging journey.
After trailing against Turkey in their quarter-final, goals from Stefan de Vrij and a forced own goal by Cody Gakpo secured their semi-final spot.
The Netherlands, seeking their second European title, have navigated through the so-called 'weaker' half of the draw.
Emerging third from Group D, they defeated Romania 3-0 in the last 16 before overcoming Turkey.
England's lineup sees potential changes, with Luke Shaw returning from injury but likely to start on the bench. Harry Kane, who suffered a cramp in the quarter-finals, is expected to lead the attack.
Marc Guehi's return from suspension adds to the defensive options.
The Netherlands must decide whether to start Wout Weghorst, whose introduction against Turkey changed the game's dynamics.
Memphis Depay and Cody Gakpo have been instrumental, directly contributing to the majority of their team's goals.
Netherlands possible starting lineup:
Verbruggen; Dumfries, De Vrij, Van Dijk, Ake; Schouten, Reijnders; Malen, Simons, Gakpo; Depay
England possible starting lineup:
Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Trippier; Bellingham, Foden; Kane
