Spain emerged victorious in a pulsating Euro 2024 final, edging out England 2-1 on Sunday. Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal secured the win with a late goal, solidifying Spain’s return as a European powerhouse.
England harbored dreams of their first major title in nearly 60 years, but those aspirations were dampened by a half-time injury to star midfielder Rodri for Spain. The Spanish side, however, remained unfazed. Nico Williams opened the scoring just two minutes after the restart, assisted by the dazzling Lamine Yamal.
England, known for their comebacks throughout the tournament, responded through substitute Cole Palmer in the 73rd minute. Their joy was short-lived, as Oyarzabal capitalized on a cross in the 86th minute, handing Spain their record-extending fourth European Championship title and their third in the last five editions.
“It’s been a marvelous day,” declared Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, celebrating a well-deserved victory. This win adds to Spain’s previous triumphs in 1964, 2008, and 2012, a period that mirrored their golden era at the World Cup (2010) under the leadership of Xavi, Alonso, and Iniesta.
While comparisons are inevitable, this new generation, spearheaded by the young sensation Yamal who just turned 17, has shown immense promise. They dominated the tournament in Germany, unfazed by the predominantly English crowd at the Olympiastadion.
England’s pursuit of a first major title since the 1966 World Cup ended in disappointment, marking their first Euro final loss on foreign soil. “It’s incredibly tough to lose the final,” admitted manager Gareth Southgate, acknowledging Spain’s superior performance.
This defeat adds to England’s heartbreak from the 2021 Euros final loss on penalties to Italy. Captain Harry Kane, at 30, remains without a major trophy despite his prolific goalscoring record. Though England fell short, Spain’s emphatic victory marks a new chapter for La Roja, with a talented young core and a renewed hunger for international glory.
