Time: 2024-07-11
Jordan Pickford , the goalkeeper for the England national football team , has expressed his willingness to take a penalty at the UEFA European Championship in 2024 if necessary . The Three Lions are gearing up for a quarter - final match against Switzerland after narrowly defeating Slovakia 2 - 1 in the last 16 stage.
England finds themselves on the opposite side of the draw from powerhouse teams such as Spain , Germany , Portugal , and France , increasing expectations for them to make it to a second consecutive European Championships final . Despite some shaky performances this summer , they may have to endure more grueling extra - time battles and potentially nerve - wracking penalty shootouts.
Under the leadership of Gareth Southgate , England has shown improvement in shootouts , notably defeating Colombia in the 2018 World Cup round of 16 and securing a bronze medal in the 2018/19 UEFA Nations League after a penalty shootout against Switzerland . However , they also experienced a heartbreaking shootout loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final at Wembley.
Pickford previously demonstrated his penalty - taking skills during the UEFA Nations League third - place match against Switzerland in 2019 , where he helped England clinch victory with a 6 - 5 score in the penalty shootout . Despite the lower pressure of that match compared to a European Championship scenario , Pickford 's confidence and ball - playing abilities make him a strong candidate for penalty duties.
In a recent statement , Pickford confidently stated that he is ready to step up and take a penalty if needed in the upcoming quarter - final against Switzerland . He emphasized the importance of practice for all players , as anyone could be called upon during a crucial moment in the game . Highlighting the strength of the Swiss team , who recently eliminated reigning champions Italy , Pickford stressed the need for thorough preparation and readiness for the upcoming match.
As the England national team continues their journey in the UEFA European Championship , Pickford 's assurance and determination to potentially take a penalty reflect the team 's commitment to success . With the quarter - final matchup against Switzerland looming , all eyes will be on Pickford and his teammates as they aim to secure a spot in the tournament 's later stages.