By Polly Tickle
In a move that has left political analysts and football fans equally bemused, Nigel Farage has credited Brexit for England’s dramatic victory over the Netherlands in the Euro 2024 semi-finals. As England prepares for its first Euro final in nearly six decades, Farage seized the moment to make a connection between the nation’s political decision to leave the EU and its recent sporting success.
“Brexit was about taking back control, and look what’s happened,” Farage declared during a spontaneous post-match interview. “We’ve taken control of European football, and it’s all thanks to the spirit of independence we fostered in 2016.”
England’s journey to the final has been anything but straightforward. The team secured their place in the semi-finals with a nerve-wracking penalty shootout victory over Switzerland. Facing the Netherlands, England delivered a performance that saw them come from behind, eventually securing a spot in the final after a tense and fiercely contested match.
Gareth Southgate’s tactical adjustments, including a shift to a 3-4-2-1 formation, were instrumental in England’s performance. Players like Phil Foden and Trent Alexander-Arnold stepped up, showcasing the depth and versatility of the squad. This strategic mastery, combined with the resilience shown by the team, has brought England to the cusp of European glory.
Farage’s comments, however, have sparked a mixed reaction. While some supporters have humorously embraced the idea that Brexit somehow influenced the football team’s fortunes, others see it as a far-fetched attempt to link two unrelated phenomena. “Next, he’ll be saying Brexit cured the common cold,” quipped one social media user.
As England gears up to face their final opponents, the narrative of Brexit’s influence on football will likely remain a humorous footnote in what has already been a historic tournament. Whether it’s down to political shifts or sheer sporting prowess, England’s performance in Euro 2024 will be remembered as a triumph of determination, skill, and perhaps a bit of good old-fashioned luck.