Your country needs you
England will need to find another gear if they are to defeat the Netherlands this evening.
The performances have been somewhat underwhelming and both of their games in the knockout rounds have gone to extra-time.
Considering the wealth of attacking talent at the manager’s disposal, the Three Lions have looked somewhat lacklustre in front of goal.
To overcome Ronald Koeman’s side, they will need to up their game against the Dutch.
Southgate lookey-likey German cop
Fans spotted a dead ringer for Gareth Southgate outside the ground.
One of the German police officers had an uncanny resemblance to the Three Lions manager.
He colleague seemed to find the funny side to the songs from the England fans.
View from SunSport’s Tom Barclay in Dortmund
England fans are now in full voice 20 minutes before kick-off belting out Three Lions as it’s played over the loudspeaker.
We’ve had Vindaloo as well – but sadly, no This Time We’ll Get It Right – perhaps that one would tempt fate too much.
Atmosphere is building nicely here, with England’s army of white providing a decent counter to the Oranje wall on the other side of the ground.
The players have all gone back in now after warming up, as they make their final preparations for kick-off.
Just a word on Kobbie Mainoo – at 19 years and 82 days, the Manchester United midfielder will be the youngest England player to play in a semi-final of a major tournament.
What an achievement that is for a player who only made their Premier League first start at the back end of November.
Boss ready for semi-final challenge
Asked about the atmosphere the Dutch fans will create, occupying the end often known as the ‘yellow wall’ in the ground, Southgate said:
I think our players are used to it. The atmosphere in the stadiums has been great this tournament and it’s added a different feel and intensity to the games. I’m sure our fans will make themselves heard and it will be a colourful occasion. These occasions are why we’re involved in football and we’re looking forward to stepping up.
Gareth Southgate