Pickford takes Shaqiri’s cheeky attempt to score from a CORNER in good spirits

JORDAN PICKFORD shared an amazing moment with Switzerland sub  Xherdan Shaqiri in extra time - before becoming England's shootout hero.

The Three Lions drew 1-1 before reaching the Euro 2024 semi-finals 5-3 on spot-kicks - with keeper Pickford the centre of attention late on in dramatically contrasting ways.

With the Three Lions straining for a winner late in the added half-hour, ex-Liverpool midfielder Shaqiri came close at the other end with an audacious effort.

The ex-Liverpool midfielder tried to score direct from a corner... and saw it smash against the bar.

Pickford was among those watching anxiously as the ball flashed across - inches away from a probable clincher.

But despite the high tension, the Everton ace reacted coolly - and with an unexpected gesture.

Pickford turned to the former Stoke playmaker...  and gave him the thumbs-up!

The tight contest soon ended with a 1-1 draw - meaning a shootout.

And it was Pickford who conjured the key moment - from the very first spot-kick.

He dived to keep out Manchester City defender Manuel Akanji's low effort to the left corner.

EURO 2024 LIVE: KEEP UP TO DATE WITH ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM GERMANY

But England's clinical efforts from 12 yards were just as impressive.

And sub Trent Alexander-Arnold, who slotted his own penalty home with a swagger, reckoned it was down to pre-match preparation.

He told the BBC: "It is what we have practiced.

"When the gaffer said I was taking one, I enjoy it and I practice it - I knew I had to just execute it.

"All five penalties from us were great."