Kobbie Mainoo: Record Star Broke Before Even Kicking a Ball vs Netherlands
- England proved too strong as they defeated the Netherlands 2-1 in Dortmund to book their place in the final of the 2024 European Championships
- Kobbie Mainoo made history as the youngest player to ever represent England in the semi-finals of a major tournament on Wednesday evening
- The Three Lions will now tackle Spain in Sunday's Euro 2024 final, with Gareth Southgate's side bidding to go one better than Euro 2020
Manchester United youngster Kobbie Mainoo made history even before stepping onto the pitch for England in the Euro 2024 semi-final.
The Three Lions secured their spot in the final with a 2-1 win over the Netherlands on Wednesday night.
Source: Getty Images
The Dutch started strong, with Xavi Simmons netting a beautiful long-range goal in the 7th minute.
However, England soon took control of the game. In the 18th minute, a foul on Harry Kane by Denzel Dumfries resulted in a penalty, which Kane expertly converted, sending the ball into the bottom left corner.
As has been their trend throughout the tournament, England scored a late winner. Substitute Ollie Watkins delivered a brilliant low shot across the goal to the far post, clinching the victory for the Three Lions, per Goal.
Kobbie Mainoo sets record vs Netherlands
While Watkins grabbed the spotlight, it was Ghanaian-born English midfielder Mainoo who was the unsung hero, anchoring England's midfield.
The 19-year-old set a record as the youngest player in European Championship history to feature in a semi-final for England, as reported by Sports Mole.
However, he isn't the youngest ever to play in a semi-final of the tournament; that distinction belongs to 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, who played in Spain's 2-1 win over France on Tuesday.
The youngest player to represent England in tournament football remains Michael Owen, who was 18 years and five months old when he played in the 1998 World Cup.
Kobbie Mainoo opens up about the Black Stars call-up
Earlier, YEN.com.gh reported that Mainoo had spoken about his thoughts and desire to represent Ghana before his call-up to the English national team.
Speaking with Sky Sports ahead of England's next EUROS fixture, Kobbie Mainoo confirmed the Ghana Football Administration's interest in him. However, he established that his dream had always been to play for England.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay informed and follow us on Google News!
Source: YEN.com.gh
