Kathmandu: In a thrilling conclusion to Euro 2024, Spain clinched their fourth European Championship title with a dramatic 2-1 victory over England at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday.
Nico Williams, a standout for Spain throughout the tournament, broke the deadlock early in the second half, slotting home from a precise pass by 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal. England responded valiantly, equalizing through Cole Palmer’s superb strike from outside the box midway through the second half.
With tensions high and the game seemingly headed for extra time, Spain seized victory in the dying moments as Mikel Oyarzabal tapped in Marc Cucurella’s perfectly placed cross. The win marks Spain’s fourth Euro triumph, adding to their previous titles in 1964, 2008, and 2012. Meanwhile, it’s heartbreak for England, who suffer another close defeat in a major final following their loss to Italy in the Euro 2020.
The match began cautiously, with both sides initially probing for openings in a tense atmosphere. Spain controlled possession early on without creating clear-cut chances, while England’s Phil Foden came closest to scoring just before halftime with a close-range effort saved by Unai Simón.
Spain faced a setback at halftime with the injury-enforced substitution of Rodri, replaced by Martín Zubimendi. However, Williams’ breakthrough goal shortly after the break energized La Roja, who came close to extending their lead through Dani Olmo and Álvaro Morata.
England rallied after Palmer’s equalizer, with substitute Ollie Watkins injecting energy into their attack. Jude Bellingham and Yamal traded chances as both teams pushed for a decisive goal. In a frantic finale, England pressed for an equalizer, with Simón making crucial saves to deny Declan Rice and Marc Guehi.
As the final whistle blew after added time, Spain celebrated their hard-earned victory, with Rodri named Player of the Tournament and Yamal honored as Young Player of the Tournament for his outstanding contributions throughout Euro 2024.
Despite the disappointment, King Charles III expressed pride in England’s achievement in reaching the final, urging the team to remain resilient in their pursuit of future successes.
Spain’s triumph caps a memorable Euro 2024, highlighted by their resilience and tactical prowess in securing yet another historic European Championship title.