From Weston to Euro 2024 Final: Watkins' 'Unbelievable' Moment

Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins seized his opportunity for England in spectacular fashion, scoring a dramatic 90th-minute winner against the Netherlands to send his team to the Euro 2024 final.

Watkins, who was playing in the English Football League just four years ago, turned Stefan de Vrij and slotted a powerful shot into the bottom corner, clinching one of the most crucial goals in England's history. Reflecting on his journey, Watkins remarked, "You can dream, but I am a realist. Scoring for England is amazing, but I didn't think I'd do it in a tournament like this."

Watkins' rise is remarkable. Nine years ago, he was on loan at non-league Weston-super-Mare from League Two's Exeter City. His former manager at Exeter, Paul Tisdale, noted Watkins' perfect attitude and physical ability but acknowledged that it took time for him to fully harness his potential.

After moving to Brentford in 2017 for £1.8m and scoring 49 goals in 143 games, Watkins joined Aston Villa for £28m, becoming the most expensive Championship player ever at the time. At Villa, he's continued to impress, scoring 70 goals in 169 games and helping the club secure a Champions League spot last season.

Watkins' winning goal justified Gareth Southgate's decision to bring him on as a substitute for Harry Kane. Former England captain Alan Shearer praised the timing of the substitutions, while ex-striker Ian Wright lauded Watkins' readiness to make a difference when it counted most.

Now, Watkins and England prepare for the Euro 2024 final against Spain, aiming to claim their first major trophy since 1966. As Watkins himself said, "I took my chance, scored it, and now we are in the final. One last game."