The Euros 2020 semi final was a night to remember for the whole England squad – but even more so for Declan Rice, who revealed that his brother’s baby arrived as Harry Kane scored the winning goal.
England were drawing with Denmark and in extra time when they were awarded a penalty, which captain Kane missed before scoring with the rebound, smashing the squad into their first final major since 1966.
Following the match, midfielder Rice was spotted on the phone.
When asked who he was speaking to, the England star said: “My brother has literally had a baby, as the second goal went in! He’s crying his eyes out, he’s had a little girl. It’s a special night all round.”
Rice also expressed his elation at the result.
“My emotions are all over the place,” he told BBC Sport. “It would have been wrong of us to overlook them. We knew our mentality had to be right. With the quality we had we knew we’d break them down in the end.
“Conceding the first goal was our first set back, you have to take a deep breath and not get carried away,” he added. “A first final since ’66. I so want to do it for the people at home. Seeing the reactions – I’m a fan as well. I wish I was with them cheering, we’ve not won anything yet. Italy are a top side but we’re ready.”
Proud to be apart of this team. One more push. We will give it everything????
— Declan Rice (@_DeclanRice) July 7, 2021???????????????????????????? pic.twitter.com/B4tu8RwZsQ
Manager Gareth Southgate described the night as an “incredible occasion” and said he was “so proud of the players.”
However, he kept his eyes on the final, saying: “there’s one more, massive hurdle to try to conquer. [Italy] are a very good side. They’ve shown outstanding form and have defensive warriors at the back who have been through everything. It’s something to look forward to. Finals are to be won.”
Skipper Harry Kane said the feeling was “unbelievable”.
“We dug deep and we got there when it mattered. We reacted really well. We’re in a final at home. What a feeling,” he said. “We know it’s going to be a very tough game against Italy we’ve had a great tournament so far. One more game to go at home and we can’t wait.”
The victory triggered wild celebrations across the country, with car horns tooting and street parties into the night.
from Football – inews.co.uk https://ift.tt/3AHQiZB
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