Spain clinched their record-breaking fourth European Championship title with Spain 2-1 England: Oyarzabal’s late goal secures a historic fourth EURO title for La Roja, in Berlin, thanks to Mikel Oyarzabal’s decisive goal in the final minutes.
Key Moments
Match Summary: Spain’s Brilliance Prevails
In a match that lived up to predictions of being closely contested, the first half saw cautious play from both sides. Coaches Gareth Southgate and Luis de la Fuente adjusted their strategies periodically, resulting in limited chances.
The second half began with a swift shift in momentum. Just two minutes in, Dani Carvajal’s intricate pass found Lamine Yamal, whose dynamic play set up Nico Williams for a precise, first-time finish. Spain continued to press, with opportunities for Dani Olmo and Álvaro Morata, but it was Yamal who nearly doubled the lead, only to be denied by Jordan Pickford’s excellent save.
England, known for their resilience, equalized shortly after. Bukayo Saka’s width and Jude Bellingham’s assist set up Cole Palmer, who scored a composed finish just three minutes after coming on. Yamal threatened again, but Pickford was up to the challenge.
With four minutes remaining, Oyarzabal found the net from Marc Cucurella’s cross, sealing the victory. England nearly responded, but Unai Simón saved Declan Rice’s header, and Dani Olmo cleared Marc Guéhi’s attempt off the line. Spain secured their historic fourth title, leaving England still in pursuit of their first.
Vivo Player of the Match: Nico Williams (Spain)
“Nico was a constant threat in attack, provided crucial defensive cover, and combined well in midfield, scoring the first goal and being one of the most dangerous players on the field.”
Reactions:
- Luis de la Fuente, Spain coach: “I couldn’t be happier – we are a real team, champions of Europe. I get prouder of them with each passing day. Thank you for the support from all over Spain.”
- Rodri, Player of the Tournament: “This is probably the best day of my career. We are European champions, as difficult as that is. We have become Europe’s most successful national team. We have made history.”
- Nico Williams, Player of the Match: “I feel euphoric, very happy. All our people deserve it: our families, fans … European champions and now we go for the World Cup. Nobody can beat us. I said we were a great team.”
- Gareth Southgate, England manager: “I think Spain were the best team in the tournament. We didn’t quite keep the ball well enough, but we were right in it until the last ten minutes. I’m devastated for everybody.”
- Harry Kane, England captain: “It’s hard to put into words how we’re all feeling. It’s an opportunity missed. You have to take it when it comes and we haven’t done it again. It’ll hurt for a long time.”
Key Stats:
- Spain are the first team to win the EURO title four times, previously sharing the record with Germany.
- Spain is the first side to win all seven games in a EURO final tournament.
- Spain’s 15 goals in EURO 2024 set a new tournament record, surpassing France’s 14 goals in 1984.
- Gareth Southgate is the third coach to reach two EURO finals after Germany’s Helmut Schön (1972 and 1976) and Berti Vogts (1992 and 1996).
- At 17 years and one day, Lamine Yamal became the youngest player to feature in a EURO or FIFA World Cup final.
- Nico Williams, at 22 years and two days, is the second-youngest player to score in a EURO final.
- This final marked the first time two teenagers started: Lamine Yamal (17 years, one day) and Kobbie Mainoo (19 years, 86 days).
- England conceded the first goal in all four of their EURO 2024 knockout stage games.
