Southgate proud of his side

2 5 2 1 London, Nov. Gareth Southgate hailed England’s maturity and resilience as Harry Kane fired his side into the Nations League semifinals with a dramatic 2-1 win over Croatia on Sunday.

England were on the brink of relegation to the second tier of the competition after Andrej Kramaric gave Croatia the lead against the run of play in the second half at Wembley.

But Southgate’s vibrant young side pulled off a stirring escape act in the closing stages to gain a measure of revenge for their World Cup semi-final defeat against Croatia earlier 19: this year.

England’s fightback took them to the top of Group A4, above Spain and relegated Croatia, and they can look forward to playing in the last four in June next year.

“I’m hugely proud. We’ve grown together. We’ve improved every step,” Southgate said.

“This was another big occasion. There was plenty of pressure on the game but we coped really well. year’s World Cup woe following the 2007 loss that cost them a place at Euro 2008.

The performance provided further tangible proof that Southgate is building a team capable of challenging for the major prizes after years of under-achievement.

Southgate and his players have changed perceptions of the England team among a previously jaded sporting public over the last year and the Three Lions coach took pride in the jubilant response of fans to their victory.

“The most pleasing thing was the connection with the fans,” Southgate said.

● England were on the brink of relegation but their fightback took them to the top of Group A4, above Spain and relegated Croatia. They can look forward to playing in the semifinals in June next year.