Virgil van Dijk, the captain of the Netherlands, has disclosed what referee Felix Zwayer did as soon as the final whistle went.

Ollie Watkins’ goal in the ninetieth minute on Wednesday night guaranteed England’s spot in Sunday night’s Euro 2024 final against Spain, but Gareth Southgate’s team once again left it late.

Xavi Simons’ incredible goal put the Three Lions under 1-0 after just seven minutes, but a contentious penalty call allowed them to tie the game with a 12-yard shot.

In the end, England won 2-1 to advance to the Euro finals twice.

“The referee ran back inside straight after the FT whistle, that says a lot,” a devastated Netherlands skipper Van Dijk said in his post-match remarks.

The dubious penalty and his decision not to give a corner after the ball bounced off John Stones last left the Dutch feeling badly taken advantage of.

Adds Van Dijk: “I’m at a loss for words. It is awful to give in at such a late hour. This hurts a lot. I’m stuck standing here, and I’m not even sure what to sаy. It hurts so bad.

Pierre van Hooijdonk, a former Dutch football player, stated on NOS: “Felix Zwayer, put him on the black list.” The game’s outcome was determined by the penalty in the first half and several key moments in the second.

Former striker Alan Shearer stated on BBC Radio 5 Live following England’s victory: “Yes, Gareth Southgate has received criticism on occasion. However, I felt tonight’s first half was fantastic; it was more along the lines of what we had hoped for, and he should get all the credit.

Izzy Christiansen, a former Manchester City player, continued, “Gareth Southgate seemed to have this deep strength within him.” He was passing out in front of the throng, and I was able to lip read him. He murmured, “One more,” and the crowd applauded.

“He seemed to be releasing a lot of stuff at that very moment.”