Jude Bellingham’s last-minute amazing goal saved Gareth Southgate’s England from a disappointing last-16 elimination as they fought back to defeat Slovakia 2-1 after extra time.
The summer that had high hopes seemed about to end in sadness and shame for a team that had come so close to winning the last tournament three years ago.
Ivan Schranz gave clever Slovakia the lead, but Bellingham's spectacular goal in stoppage time brought the match to extra time, where Harry Kane's header secured Southgate’s team a win.
England will face Switzerland in the quarter-finals and will aim to continue the fighting spirit shown towards the end of the match, which seemed destined to end in a disappointing result like the one against Iceland in Euro 2016.
Southgate has made significant improvements since taking over as coach eight years ago, but the pressure and scrutiny will be intense after barely making it to the last eight and reaching his 100th match in charge.
England’s manager was met with mixed reactions before the match, with referee Umut Meler issuing an early booking to Marc Guehi.
The center-back will miss the next match due to suspension, with young players Kobbie Mainoo and Jude Bellingham also receiving yellow cards.
Slovakia, led by Francesco Calzona, took advantage of England's unconvincing performance in the group stage. Their early goal put England on the back foot, leading to frustration among fans in the stands.
Despite an improved attacking display from England, they struggled to find the net and were lucky to avoid conceding a second goal to Slovakia.
The game changed dramatically in stoppage time with Bellingham's incredible goal, sending the match to extra time where Kane sealed the victory for England.
After a tense extra time, England held on for the win and secured their spot in the quarter-finals, much to the relief of their supporters.