Spain take home the trophy: Euro 2024 final roundup

Spain won EURO 2024 after a thrilling 2-1 victory over England in the final held at the Olympiastadion.

From the outset, Spain pushed forward with intent, as England’s John Stones was tested early by Nico Williams. It was a half where both teams struggled to gain the upper hand, and England’s best opportunity came from Phil Foden, whose shot was saved by Spanish goalkeeper, Unai Simón.

At halftime, Spain’s influential midfielder Rodri was substituted due to an unspecified injury. Despite this setback, just two minutes into the second half, Nico Williams broke the deadlock to give Spain a 1-0 lead.

Spain continued to press, as Williams nearly doubled his tally with a powerful long-range effort that narrowly missed Pickford’s right-hand post. In response, England manager, Gareth Southgate, brought on Ollie Watkins, replacing an ineffective Harry Kane in a bid to change the game’s momentum.

England’s persistence paid off when substitute Cole Palmer levelled the score with a stunning strike from outside the penalty area

Jude Bellingham provided England’s first significant response, displaying remarkable skill to evade three Spanish defenders before his shot on the turn went just wide of Simón’s goal. Spain, however, remained dangerous, with Yamal forcing Pickford into a crucial low save to prevent a second Spanish goal.

England’s persistence paid off when substitute Cole Palmer levelled the score with a stunning strike from outside the penalty area. This equaliser set the stage for a tense final twenty minutes of the match.

Spain continued to threaten, forcing Pickford into several important saves, including one from a Spain counterattack that Yamal failed to fully capitalise on. As the match edged towards extra time, Spain found the breakthrough they needed. In the 86th minute, Mikel Oyarzabal diverted Marc Cucurella’s low cross into the net to restore Spain’s lead.

England mounted a desperate final assault, coming agonisingly close to equalising again. Dani Olmo’s goal-line clearance from Marc Guéhi’s header, following a save from Simón on Rice’s attempt, ensured Spain held onto their advantage.

Spain held on to secure their fourth European Championship title, setting a new record

Spain held on to secure their fourth European Championship title, setting a new record. England, meanwhile, faced the disappointment of a second consecutive final defeat.

Spain’s triumph in the EURO 2024 final epitomised their resilience. Despite losing a key player at halftime, they adapted and overcame the challenge posed by England. Nico Williams’ opener, Palmer’s equaliser, and Oyarzabal’s late winner encapsulated the drama and intensity of a thrilling match.

Spain’s journey to the title was marked by moments of individual brilliance and collective strength. Lamine Yamal’s assists and Nico Williams’ attacking flair were crucial in their path to victory. The team’s ability to regroup and push forward after losing Rodri highlighted their depth and determination.

England will reflect on their journey with pride but also with the determination to overcome the final hurdle in future competitions

For England, the final was a case of so near yet so far. Southgate showcased his ability to make impactful changes, but the Three Lions were ultimately undone by Spain’s clinical finishing and defensive resilience.

Spain’s record-breaking fourth European Championship title cements their status as one of the most successful teams in the history of the tournament. England, on the other hand, will reflect on their journey with pride but also with the determination to overcome the final hurdle in future competitions.