Spain has triumphed at the 2024 UEFA European Championship, defeating England 2-1 in a gripping final at the Olympiastadion on Sunday.
The victory marks Spain’s first major trophy in 12 years and their record-setting fourth Euro title, making them the country with the most Euro titles in history.
The night’s hero was substitute Mikel Oyarzabal, who netted the decisive goal late in the game, breaking the deadlock and securing the win for La Roja. Talk of young sensation Lamine Yamal dominated the buildup to the final, but it was Nico Williams and the relatively obscure Oyarzabal who ultimately broke English hearts on the grand stage.
Luis de la Fuente’s side dominated possession in the first half but struggled to break down a resilient England defense, which double-marked Williams and Yamal on the flanks. Gareth Southgate’s side, meanwhile, failed to register a shot on target in the first half.
Spain came out with renewed vigor after the interval, immediately capitalizing with a goal. Just 46 seconds into the second half, Yamal set up Williams, who slotted the ball home to give Spain the lead.
The match then saw a flurry of chances from both sides. Spain’s Dani Olmo and Yamal came close to extending the lead, while Jude Bellingham’s shot was a rare offensive effort from England.
In a bid to turn the tide, Southgate brought on Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer, whose combination had previously revived England in their semi-final win. The substitution paid off once again as Palmer fired a low shot into the far corner from 22 yards to equalize.
However, Spain regained their composure and relentlessly pressed forward. Their efforts were rewarded in the 86th minute when Oyarzabal stretched to poke in a cross from Marc Cucurella, scoring the winning goal.
