Gareth Southgate praised England's latest late-night performance, but the much-criticized manager's complete attention swiftly shifted from a memorable semi-final victory to Sunday's European Championship final against Spain.
Three years after losing the continental final to Italy on penalties, the Euro 2020 runners-up earned another chance at glory in Berlin this weekend.England disappointed at the start of this summer's tournament, with fans turning against manager Southgate, but performances have gradually improved as they moved into the knockout stages.
Jude Bellingham's magnificent overhead kick rescued their blushes in the round of 16 against Slovakia, sparking a 2-1 extra-time victory, before defeating Switzerland on penalties after a 1-1 quarter-final draw.
Another 120 minutes were scheduled after Harry Kane's contentious penalty cancelled out Xavi Simons' goal, only for substitute Ollie Watkins to seal a 2-1 semi-final victory at the death.
Jude Bellingham's magnificent overhead kick rescued their blushes in the round of 16 against Slovakia, sparking a 2-1 extra-time victory, before defeating Switzerland on penalties after a 1-1 quarter-final draw.
Another 120 minutes were scheduled after Harry Kane's contentious penalty cancelled out Xavi Simons' goal, only for substitute Ollie Watkins to seal a 2-1 semi-final victory at the death.
"I took the job to try and improve English football and we're now in a second final," Southgate told the BBC. "The previous one was the first in fifty years. We're now in the first round that isn't played on our shores.
"I believe we have a team that will be together for a long time, so this isn't the end of a cycle."
"We're offering people some incredible nights. I believe we've given our supporters some of the best nights in the last 50 years, and I'm quite pleased of that.
"I'm thrilled if everyone at home feels the same way we do, as do the fans in the stadium.
"I believe we have a team that will be together for a long time, so this isn't the end of a cycle."
"We're offering people some incredible nights. I believe we've given our supporters some of the best nights in the last 50 years, and I'm quite pleased of that.
"I'm thrilled if everyone at home feels the same way we do, as do the fans in the stadium.
"But from our perspective, we're not done. We have the toughest challenge to prepare for, and we came here to win the tournament, which remains our goal."
Watkins' victory caused wild celebrations in Dortmund and across England, with new Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Prince of Wales among those expressing their congratulations.
Watkins' victory caused wild celebrations in Dortmund and across England, with new Prime Minister Keir Starmer and the Prince of Wales among those expressing their congratulations.
The King joined in congratulating Southgate's team, but warned them to avoid further last-minute turmoil.
When told of Charles' words, the England manager smiled and remarked, "Well, I hope they are enjoying a few beers.
"We've had some great nights over the previous seven to eight years. These games have been dramatic because the goals have arrived late.
"The main reason I took the job was to help England as a whole and enhance English football.
"I'm extremely proud to have led the team to its first abroad final.
"But, of course, we're here to win. We play the squad that has been the best in the competition, and we have one day less to prepare, so it's a massive assignment. But we're still here, battling."
Spain has been the tournament's star squad, defeating hosts Germany in the quarterfinals and France in Tuesday's semi-final.
When told of Charles' words, the England manager smiled and remarked, "Well, I hope they are enjoying a few beers.
"We've had some great nights over the previous seven to eight years. These games have been dramatic because the goals have arrived late.
"The main reason I took the job was to help England as a whole and enhance English football.
"I'm extremely proud to have led the team to its first abroad final.
"But, of course, we're here to win. We play the squad that has been the best in the competition, and we have one day less to prepare, so it's a massive assignment. But we're still here, battling."
Spain has been the tournament's star squad, defeating hosts Germany in the quarterfinals and France in Tuesday's semi-final.
Boos greeted the group draws against Denmark and Slovenia, with beer cups aimed at the manager following the latter's stalemate in Köln.
Southgate confessed in recent days that personal criticism has affected him, making moments like Wednesday's semi-final more sweeter.
"Everyone wants to be loved, right? When you are doing something for your nation as a proud Englishman and all you see is criticism, it is difficult," the England manager added.
"Being able to celebrate a second final is incredibly meaningful. Especially the supporters who travel.
"Our travel support is incredible; the money they spend, the commitment to do so, and the ability to provide them with nights like this - which we have done several times over the last six years beginning in Russia - means a lot.
"If I hadn't been on the grass, I'd have been watching and rejoicing alongside them. We share many characteristics. Of course, I am the one who needs to choose a team.
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