Euros Final:Prince William Tells England to ‘Show What You’re Made of’

AFP/APP

London: Prince William has encouraged England to “show what you’re made of” as they prepare to face Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday in Berlin.

As president of the Football Association, William will be attending the match, where England hopes to secure their first major trophy since the 1966 World Cup.

William, a passionate Aston Villa supporter, attended England’s Euro 2024 quarter-final win over Switzerland and their group-stage draw against Denmark.

On Saturday, he posted on social media, saying, “We are so proud of you all, England. Just one last push to finish the job! Go out there and show the world what you’re made of. We believe. W.”

Earlier in the week, King Charles III humorously advised England to avoid last-minute drama in the final. After Ollie Watkins’ late goal secured a 2-1 win against the Netherlands in the semi-finals, Charles conveyed the royal family’s “very best wishes” and “warmest congratulations.” 

He added, “If I may encourage you to secure victory before the need for any last-minute wonder-goals or another penalties drama, I am sure the nation’s collective heart rate and blood pressure would be greatly alleviated! Good luck, England.”

British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, a devoted Arsenal fan, also extended his best wishes to Southgate’s team in an open letter on Saturday. 

He wrote, “To Gareth and all the England team, on behalf of the whole nation, I wanted to wish you all the very best ahead of the final. You should all be proud of what you’ve achieved so far, and I hope you can take strength from the millions at home kicking every ball alongside you. You don’t need a running commentary from a politician on what you should or shouldn’t do. You’re here not because of luck, but because of your graft and hard work. You’ve earned it. As you did three years ago, you’ve made the country proud. Whatever happens, you should know that you have united the country, and we are all behind you.”

England, who lost to Italy on penalties in the 2021 European Championship final, have never won the tournament. During Gareth Southgate’s eight-year tenure, the Three Lions have also experienced narrow defeats in the 2018 World Cup semi-final against Croatia and the 2022 World Cup quarter-final against France.