Declan Rice’s brother’s wife gave birth during England’s win over Denmark
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Declan Rice helped England reach the final of Euro 2020 with victory over Denmark last night – and the midfielder had another reason to celebrate at Wembley.
Rice started alongside Kalvin Phillips on Wednesday night, putting in another assured performance in the middle of the park as England won 2-1 in extra-time to earn a place in Sunday’s final against Italy.
Mikkel Damsgaard threatened to upset the party atmosphere at Wembley with a stunning 30-yard free-kick after 30 minutes to put Denmark 1-0 up.
England responded well to the first goal they conceded in the tournament, with Bukayo Saka sending in a low cross which Simon Kjaer turned into his own net to level the scores.
Kasper Schmeichel kept Denmark in the game with some brilliant saves until Raheem Sterling drew a foul in the penalty area in extra time and Harry Kane tapped in the rebound when Schmeichel saved his spot-kick.
There were emotional scenes when the full-time whistle blew inside the national stadium – and West Ham midfielder Rice had an extra reason to be excited.
The 22-year-old was seen on his phone amid the jubilant celebrations and was later asked who he was speaking to.
“My brother has literally had a baby, as the second goal went in!” he told BBC Sport.
“He’s crying his eyes out, he’s had a little girl. It’s a special night all round.”
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Rice has started all six of England’s games at Euro 2020 and, having helped Gareth Southgate’s side reach a first final for 55 years, he is focused on repeating the success of the famous 1966 World Cup side.
“Time to go one better from the World Cup,” he said.
“My emotions are all over the place. It would have been wrong of us to overlook them.
“We knew our mentality had to be right. With the quality we had we knew we’d break them down in the end.
“Conceding the first goal was our first set back, you have to take a deep breath and not get carried away.
“A first final since ’66. I so want to do it for the people at home. Seeing the reactions – I’m a fan as well.
“I wish I was with them cheering, we’ve not won anything yet. Italy are a top side, but we’re ready.”
- Gareth Southgate
- Harry Kane
- England Football Team
- Euro 2020
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