King’s cheeky message to England begging them to avoid ‘penalty drama’ for sake of ‘nation’s heart rate’ in Euros 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 cheeky message to Gareth Southgate’s side following the Three Lions’ 2-1 win against the Netherlands, Charles sent the players his “very best wishes” and “warmest congratulations”.

England goalscorer Ollie Watkins celebrates with Harry Kane after winning the Euro 2024 semi-finals match against the NetherlandsCredit: EPA

King Charles III and Queen Camilla wished the players the best of luck for the finalCredit: Getty

The King’s message to the England football teamCredit: Not known, clear with picture desk

England manager Gareth Southgate celebrates the winCredit: EURO 2024 News Pool (ENP)
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.”

Prince William also congratulated the team at the final whistle.

Writing on the Prince and Princess of Wales X account, the future monarch and big football fan said: “What a beauty, Ollie! Congratulations England! EURO2024 Finalists. W.”

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.