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“I’ve been waiting for that moment for weeks,” said Ollie Watkins, and he certainly seized it. With just moments left in England’s Euro 2024 semi-final against the Netherlands, the score tied at 1-1 in Dortmund, the striker—who only four years ago was playing in the English Football League—made his mark.
Watkins, now with Aston Villa, turned Stefan de Vrij and struck a powerful shot into the bottom corner, scoring one of the most pivotal goals in England’s history. Reflecting on his journey, he recalled finishing a loan spell at non-league Weston-super-Mare just nine years ago. “You can dream, but I’m a realist. My focus was on getting back into the first team at Exeter City,” he admitted.
His winning goal justified Gareth Southgate’s decision to replace Harry Kane with Watkins just minutes before. Former England captain Alan Shearer praised the timing of the substitutions: “The changes were right and they were perfect.”
Before this match, Watkins had only seen 20 minutes of action in major tournaments. “When I was on the bench, I told Dean Henderson, ‘I can make a difference today,’” he shared. Now, he looks forward to the final against Spain, where England aims to become European champions for the first time in men’s football.
Watkins began his career lower down the football pyramid at Exeter City. His first manager, Paul Tisdale, noted his potential: “He had the perfect attitude, character, and physical ability.” After a successful loan at Weston-super-Mare, where he scored 10 goals, Watkins returned to Exeter as a striker and soon moved to Brentford.
His journey continued as he became the most expensive Championship player when he joined Aston Villa for £28 million, now boasting 70 goals in 169 games. “He’s become more of a selfish player, which is a good thing,” said Dean Smith, his former manager.
Watkins recently expressed his growth: “Even when I first went to Villa, I wasn’t sure I deserved to be there. Now I’m in a really good place.” Gareth Southgate acknowledged his readiness: “Ollie has trained every day and been ready to play.”
Watkins’ late goal, timed at 89:59, marked the latest winning goal in a European Championship or World Cup semi-final, excluding extra time. “When it matters, you can make a difference, you can win us a tournament,” Harry Kane said.
Ex-England striker Ian Wright praised Watkins’ performance, emphasizing the importance of seizing opportunities. “He’s waited for his moment and he’s done it. Now we’re into the final. It’s just amazing.”