King congratulates England on reaching Euro 2024 final

The King has congratulated the England men’s football team on reaching the final of Euro 2024 – but has urged them to avoid more last-minute drama.

In a message to Gareth Southgate’s side following the Three Lions’ 2-1 win against the Netherlands, Charles sent the players the royal family’s “very best wishes” and “warmest congratulations”.

But the King quipped about the recent drama endured by England fans, including a last-gasp equaliser in the second round against Slovakia and a penalty triumph against Switzerland in the quarter-final, asking them to watch out for the nation’s blood pressure in the final clash with Spain.

He said: “My wife and I join all our family in wishing you the warmest congratulations on reaching the final of the U.E.F.A. European Championship – and in sending our very best wishes for Sunday’s match.

“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 stresses on the nation’s collective heart rate and blood pressure would be greatly alleviated!

“Good luck, England.”

It comes after more drama in the semi-final after Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins scored a 90th-minute winner to send them through.

The Three Lions fell behind after seven minutes to a Xavi Simons strike but a controversial Harry Kane penalty, awarded by VAR, brought the scores level 10 minutes later.

The Prince of Wales, who is a Villa fan, also congratulated England and singled out Watkins for praise in a message on social media.

He said: “What a beauty, Ollie! Congratulations England! #EURO2024 Finalists.”

Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who was able to watch some of the game while attending a Nato summit in Washington DC, has confirmed he will attend Sunday’s final in Berlin.

In a post on X, he said: “What a game @England and what a winner. Berlin here we come!”

The Prime Minister also suggested football was “coming home” following the win.

At an Oval Office meeting with US President Joe Biden, Sir Keir was asked if football was coming home, and said: “It looks like it.”

“It’s because of the Prime Minister,” Mr Biden replied.

It is understood William, who is president of the Football Association, is also likely to travel to Berlin for the final on Sunday.