Arsenal’s Saka revels in ‘special’ win after inspiring England to QF win over giant-killing Switzerland

Bukayo Saka has described how special it was to help England claim a memorable victory over Switzerland in the quarterfinal of Euro 2024, Soccernet.football reports.

England defeated Switzerland 5-3 on penalties after the two teams played out a thrilling 1-1 draw at full-time and remained inseparable during extra time.

Saka clawed England’s way back into the tie with a crucial equaliser moments after Breel Embolo broke the deadlock for the Swiss.

After claiming an upset victory over defending champions Italy in the Round of 16, Switzerland were minutes away from showing another title favourite the exit door when Embolo bundled home the opener in the 75th minute.

But Saka came to the rescue of the Three Lions when he curled in a beauty off the post five minutes later.

The Arsenal winger equally stepped forward in the shootout to score England’s third penalty kick as Gareth Southgate booked their place in the semis.

Reacting to the victory, Saka admits it was a difficult clash but remains upbeat about how Emgland showed the right spirit to win.

“Having fought back and to go to penalties as well. Special, special,” Saka told the BBC via AlJazeerah.

“To come back from something like that was difficult I’ve used it to make me stronger and I’m really happy. This shows how much we want to win this tournament.

“We’ve come back in the last two games. Hopefully, we can go and do it in the next game.”

England will face the winner of Netherlands vs Turkey in the semifinals.