Spain strikes late and defeats England 2-1 in the final – DW – 14.07.2024

The Spanish team secured their fourth European title after Mikel Oyarzabal’s late goal gave his team a narrow 2-1 win over England in Berlin on Sunday evening.

After a cautious first 45 minutes, Luis de la Fuente’s side took the lead seconds after the break when outstanding teenager Lamine Yamal played in winger Nico Williams, who headed the ball past Jordan Pickford and into the net.

It was the fourth consecutive knockout match at Euro 2024 that England fell behind, but substitute Cole Palmer equalised for his team in the 73rd minute to the delight of a packed Olympic Stadium.

But four minutes from time, Mikel Oyarzabal stretched to convert a low cross from Marc Cucurella into the penalty area – to the delight of the Spanish players and fans.

“I did my job and did what I had to do and was lucky enough to score the winning goal. Being one of the 26 names selected is already something special, but then being able to help the team like I did is the most important thing,” said substitute Oyarzabal after the match.

Spain wins third European Championship in style at fifth attempt

That Spain would be crowned champions seemed almost fate, as Spanish teams had won all of the last 22 major finals in which they participated, both at international and domestic club level.

While Spain was considered the star of the national team at Euro 2024 and was a joy to watch with its fluid attacking football, England’s dour and defensive play also caused a stir at home and abroad.

However, both teams looked nervous and unable to gain a foothold in the early stages of the game. Poor decisions on the ball and a lack of precision in the final pass were the hallmarks of the first half.

Although the Spanish lost defender Rodri, who was named player of the tournament, to injury at half-time, they came out of the starting blocks with full steam once play resumed.

Teenager Yamal was released on the right, moved into the box and fired a pinpoint cross to claim his fourth assist of the competition. Williams kept his head and coolly fired past Pickford.

But it was an unexpected hero in the form of substitute Oyarzabal who gave the Spanish men their first major title since 2012 and their third European title in the last five rounds, surpassing Germany’s record of three.

“I couldn’t be happier. It was a wonderful day, a team deserved to become European champions. Today I am even prouder and hope that this momentum can bring even better days,” said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente after the game.

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Edited by: Mark Hallam