Spain wins epic battle against France

The dynamic and entertaining Spanish team secured their place in the Euro 2024 final with a spectacular performance, highlighted by a world-class goal from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, beating France 2-1.

France scores first inplay goal

France’ tournament so far was all about scoring penalties and getting help from the opponents. Only a penalty and own goals got France on the scoreboard so far in this tournament. This time Kolo Muani needed only 9 minutes to score a goal. A scenario which many football fans feared. France has shown so much defensive power, that an early goal might kill the game. Fortunately Spain showed once again how good they are.

Lamine Yamal writes history

The first half story was centered on Spain's right flank, featuring Lamine Yamal, the youngest player in the tournament, and Sevilla icon Jesús Navas, the oldest outfield player ever to start in a Euro semi-final. Navas filled in due to Dani Carvajal's suspension, with Nacho replacing the also suspended Robin Le Normand, and Dani Olmo stepping in for the injured Pedri. Yamal, the 16-year-old prodigy, played a pivotal role in Spain's early success. Known for his assists, he finally found the back of the net in spectacular fashion after 20 minutes. Cutting inside past Theo Hernández, he unleashed a brilliant shot that flew past Adrien Rabiot and beyond Mike Maignan, hitting the inside of the post before going in. This goal made Yamal, at 16 years and 362 days, the youngest scorer in Euro history, a record-breaking moment in a crucial match against a formidable French side.

Spain's dominance

Spain's dominance continued five minutes later when Dani Olmo skillfully outmaneuvered two French defenders, with Jules Kounde inadvertently helping the ball over the line. This moment was a relief for Spain, especially for Jesús Navas, who had struggled against Kylian Mbappé. Mbappé, playing without a mask, caused constant problems for Navas and the Spanish defense. Randal Kolo Muani scored for France with a header from Mbappé's cross, and Navas soon found himself booked after a desperate foul to stop Adrien Rabiot. Spain weathered the storm, relying on their fluid attacking style that had seen them through the group of death and past hosts Germany. They continued to create opportunities with fearless and stoic play, embodying the tournament's surprise package.

Second Half Pressure and Spanish Resilience

The second half saw France, with Antoine Griezmann coming off the bench, increasing the pressure to reach their fifth final in six tournaments. Mbappé and substitutes Ousmane Dembélé and Bradley Barcola pushed hard, but their final passes lacked precision. Chances for an equalizer fell to Mbappé and Theo Hernández, but their shots were wild, flying high over Unai Simón's goal. Spain's technical skill and bravery narrowly held off the relentless French attack.

Looking Ahead to the Final

Fans of the Spanish team started booking the best Euro final tickets. Spain's thrilling victory against France sets up an exciting final showdown in Berlin. Awaiting the winner of the Netherlands vs. England semi-final, Spain's blend of youthful exuberance and experienced stability will be a formidable challenge for any opponent. The Spanish team's journey to the final, marked by tactical brilliance and individual talent, promises a memorable conclusion to the tournament. As they prepare for the final, Spain aims to continue their impressive form and claim the Euro championship once more, adding another chapter to their storied football legacy. This historic win for Spain highlights the exceptional talents of Lamine Yamal and the tactical acumen of their squad. As they look forward to the final, football fans around the world can expect a thrilling contest on Sunday evening.