But after the match, he took aim at the media as he explained during his post-match press conference: “We do a lot of things. As I said, we’ve won three out of four and a lot of our processes have been shared.
“Our tactical plan for the game was also shared three days before. We live in an amazing world where it’s so difficult for us because any element of surprise you might have with the opponent is gone three days before. It’s quite incredible really.”
Southgate made one change to his starting line-up against Switzerland as Aston Villa defender Ezri Konsa came in to replace the suspended Marc Guehi. Bukayo Saka, meanwhile, lined up on the right flank after being expected to play on the left.
The Three Lions are among the favourites to win this summer's Euro 2024 tournament and you can get your hands on the brand new Nike home and away kits before the first whistle.
And England offered a greater attacking threat than they had done during their opening four matches of the tournament, despite seeing their goalscoring opportunities limited by a well-organised Switzerland defence.
The 1966 World Cup winners were forced to once again seal their victory the hard way after falling behind to a Breel Embolo strike with 15 minutes remaining.
Saka popped up with a superb equaliser from the edge of the box five minutes after the opener to take the match into extra time, with neither side able to find a route to goal ahead of a penalty shootout.
And when Manchester City star Manuel Akanji saw his effort saved by Jordan Pickford, the Three Lions were able to capitalise as Cole Palmer, Jude Bellingham, Saka, Ivan Toney and Trent Alexander-Arnold all converted from 12 yards.
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England ace Trent Alexander-Arnold scored the winning penalty as his side defeated Switzerland (Image: GETTY)
Southgate was in joyous mood when he spoke to the BBC in the immediate aftermath of the encounter.
And he exclaimed: “Every now and then surely there has to be some enjoyment in this job. I love the players and sharing that moment with them.
“I can't deny when things get as personal as it has, it does hurt. I don't think it is normal to have beer thrown at you. But we are in a third semi-final in four tournaments. We will keep grinding, keep fighting and keep enjoying this journey.”
