Yamal Makes History
Lamine Yamal made history as the youngest player to score in a men’s European Championship, helping Spain edge past France 2-1 to reach the Euro 2024 final on Sunday.
Early Lead for France
France took the lead inside 10 minutes with Randal Kolo Muani heading home from Kylian Mbappé’s cross. However, Spain quickly equalized through a stunning long-range effort by 16-year-old Yamal.
Spain’s Quick Response
Dani Olmo then scored less than five minutes later to give Spain the lead. La Roja defended their advantage stoically until the full-time whistle.
Spain’s Historic Achievement
With Tuesday’s victory, Spain became the first team to win six straight matches at a single European Championship tournament. Luis de la Fuente’s side will now face either the Netherlands or England in the final, as Spain seeks its fourth Euros crown.
Yamal’s Impact
Yamal, who received the man of the match award, celebrates his 17th birthday the day before the final. He said, “We are very, very close. [We’re] with a lot of happiness. This team is unbelievable. We deserve it. One step away from glory.”
Sublime Spain
Few predicted Spain to win the tournament, but they have been the best team at Euro 2024. The pace and trickery of Yamal and 21-year-old Nico Williams have been highlights, along with Rodri’s control in midfield.
| Player | Achievement | Remark |
|---|---|---|
| Lamine Yamal | Youngest scorer in Euro history | Stunning equalizer |
| Dani Olmo | Scored Spain’s second goal | Brilliant effort |
| Kylian Mbappé | Assisted France’s goal | Played without a mask |
| Randal Kolo Muani | Scored France’s goal | Headed in Mbappé’s cross |
France’s Struggles
France has struggled for form, relying on own goals and a penalty from Mbappé to reach the semifinals. Mbappé, recovering from a broken nose, has not been at his best.
Match Highlights
Spain should have taken the lead early when Yamal’s cross found Fabián Ruiz, but he missed the opportunity. France then scored through Kolo Muani, who headed Mbappé’s cross past Unai Simón.
Yamal’s equalizer and Olmo’s goal turned the game in Spain’s favor. France coach Didier Deschamps made several substitutions to spark a comeback, but Spain’s defense held firm.
Conclusion
Spain’s impressive performance, led by teenage sensation Yamal, has set up a final showdown with either the Netherlands or England. Fans eagerly await the final as Spain seeks another European Championship title.(188jili)