JORDAN PICKFORD shared an amazing moment with Switzerland sub Xherdan Shaqiri in extra time – before becoming England’s shootout hero.
The Three Lions drew 1-1 before reaching the Euro 2024 semi-finals 5-3 on spot-kicks – with keeper Pickford the centre of attention late on in dramatically contrasting ways.
Jordan Pickford responded with this surprising gesture
Xherdan Shaqiri hit the bar with his corner
With the Three Lions straining for a winner late in the added half-hour, ex-Liverpool midfielder Shaqiri came close at the other end with an audacious effort.
The ex-Liverpool midfielder tried to score direct from a corner… and saw it smash against the bar.
Pickford was among those watching anxiously as the ball flashed across – inches away from a probable clincher.
But despite the high tension, the Everton ace reacted coolly – and with an unexpected gesture.
Pickford turned to the former Stoke playmaker… and gave him the thumbs-up!
The tight contest soon ended with a 1-1 draw – meaning a shootout.
And it was Pickford who conjured the key moment – from the very first spot-kick.
He dived to keep out Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji’s low effort to the left corner.
Pickford was nearly caught out by Shaqiri’s effort
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But England’s clinical efforts from 12 yards were just as impressive.
And sub Trent Alexander-Arnold, who slotted his own penalty home with a swagger, reckoned it was down to pre-match preparation.
He told the BBC: “It is what we have practiced.
“When the gaffer said I was taking one, I enjoy it and I practice it – I knew I had to just execute it.
“All five penalties from us were great.”
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