Euro 2024: John Stones believes that England’s thrilling victory against Slovakia was a pivotal moment for the team’s emotional state.

John Stones has hailed England’s 2-1 victory over Slovakia in the Euro 2024 round-of-16 clash as a “turning point” for Gareth Southgate’s side. The team, who were the runners-up in Euro 2020, had struggled to impress in the tournament so far and were on the brink of elimination until Jude Bellingham’s last-minute equalizer and Harry Kane’s winning goal in extra time.

Stones believes that this win will have a significant impact on the team’s emotions and mindset. He stated, “To do it in a high-pressured moment in the last few moments, it is going to change a lot of things for us. As a team and going through the emotions.” He also emphasized the unity and togetherness displayed by the team during the celebrations, which he believes will boost their belief and performance in future tough moments.

England’s performances in the tournament have faced criticism from pundits and fans alike, including Gary Lineker and Alan Shearer. The team has struggled to assert dominance in their matches, and this trend continued against Slovakia, with the opposition being the stronger side in the opening hour of play. Stones admitted that he thought England would be going home based on that display.

However, he stressed the importance of progressing and playing the fluid football that the team is known for. He highlighted the power of changing the mindset and keeping belief until the last minute, which he believes will give them confidence and motivation. Stones also mentioned the criticism faced by Southgate and how the manager turns it into motivation to succeed.

Looking ahead to the quarter-finals against Switzerland, Stones acknowledged the impressive campaign of their opponents and the challenge they pose. He said, “How they have played this tournament and the players they have got, they’ve been brilliant, so it is down to us now.”

Overall, Stones believes that the victory against Slovakia will have a significant impact on England’s performance and mindset moving forward in the tournament.