Spain triumphed over France 2-1 on Tuesday to clinch their place in the Euro 2024 final, marking their return to a major tournament final after 12 years. They await either the Netherlands or England in the championship match.
In a dramatic match in Munich, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal etched his name in history by becoming the youngest-ever scorer in Euro history. After conceding an early goal to Randal Kolo Muani’s header, Spain responded swiftly with two goals in a decisive four-minute burst.
Yamal’s equalizer was a thing of beauty—a curling strike from outside the box that nestled into the top corner, leaving goalkeeper Mike Maignan grasping at thin air. Moments later, Dani Olmo put Spain ahead with a deflected effort.
Reflecting on his remarkable goal, Yamal said, “I saw the opportunity and just went for it. It’s an incredible feeling to contribute like this and reach the final.”
Spain’s victory extended their winning streak to six games at Euro 2024, setting a new record for consecutive wins in the tournament and positioning them within touching distance of a historic fourth Euro title.
“We’re on the brink of something special,” remarked Olmo. “This team’s resilience and unity have been exceptional. We’re hungry to finish the job.”
Spain’s mastery in midfield and composure after taking the lead stifled France’s attempts to rally, underscoring their tactical prowess and determination.
While France struck early through Kolo Muani, their failure to capitalize on subsequent chances, including a missed opportunity by captain Kylian Mbappé late in the game, left them rueing what might have been.
Manager Didier Deschamps admitted, “Spain controlled the tempo better than us. Despite our efforts, we couldn’t break through their defense.”
As Spain prepares for their showdown in Berlin, fans are buzzing with anticipation over whether they can replicate their past glories and lift the Euro 2024 trophy.
With their youthful dynamism and strategic maturity, Spain has captured the imagination of football enthusiasts worldwide, setting the stage for an enthralling final clash that promises to be a spectacle.