England and the Netherlands are set to face off in a highly anticipated Euro 2024 semi-final match on Wednesday night.

Despite reaching the final four, England’s performances in Germany have been less than impressive. Out of five games, they have only managed one win in normal time against Serbia, with additional matches against Denmark, Slovenia, Slovakia, and Switzerland.

Gareth Southgate, the England boss, has faced significant pressure due to the team’s lackluster displays. In a recent admission, Southgate acknowledged that his players have been playing with fear at Euro 2024.

On the latest episode of It’s All Kicking Off, a Mail Sport Euros Daily podcast, Ian Ladyman and Oliver Holt discussed Southgate’s claims and analyzed whether fear has impacted England’s performance.

Holt concurred that the players started the tournament fearfully, which he deemed unfortunate. Ladyman emphasized the need for England to elevate their game, stating that they “are going to have to step up by 20 or 30 percent” to overcome the Netherlands.

The duo also reflected on France’s thrilling semi-final defeat to Spain, considered one of the tournament’s standout games. Additionally, they discussed Southgate’s future as England’s manager and continued the build-up to the Three Lions’ crucial semi-final match.

Be sure to tune in to It’s All Kicking Off! on Spotify or Apple Podcasts for new episodes released daily during the Euros.