In a heart-wrenching finish, England’s quest for their first major trophy since 1966 continues as they were defeated by Spain in the Euro 2024 final. Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal scored an 86th-minute winner to secure Spain’s victory and their record fourth European Championship title.
The match, held at Berlin’s Olympiastadion, saw Spain dominate possession and pin England back for long periods. Despite a valiant effort from the Three Lions, they ultimately fell short.
Match Highlights:
Full-Time: England 1-2 Spain
Goals:
- Spain: Lamine Yamal (47′), Mikel Oyarzabal (86′)
- England: Cole Palmer (73′)
Key Moments:
86′ – Oyarzabal’s Winner:
Mikel Oyarzabal, who came on as a substitute, capitalized on a precise cross from Marc Cucurella, slotting the ball past Jordan Pickford. The goal was reviewed for offside but was deemed legitimate, breaking English hearts and securing Spain’s triumph.
73′ – Palmer’s Equalizer:
England’s Cole Palmer, another super-substitution, scored a stunning goal just three minutes after coming on. His long-range strike into the bottom corner brought England level and reignited their hopes.
47′ – Yamal’s Opener:
Spain’s young sensation Lamine Yamal opened the scoring early in the second half, finishing off a well-coordinated attack with a powerful shot that left Pickford with no chance.
90′ – Off the Line:
John Stones nearly equalized for England in the dying moments, but his header was cleared off the line by Dani Olmo, a moment that saw Spain celebrate as if they had scored.
Final Whistle:
The final whistle confirmed Spain’s victory, leaving England dejected. Manager Gareth Southgate was seen consoling his players, who had given their all but were ultimately outclassed by a superior Spanish side.
Reactions:
Gary Neville, former England defender:
Defensively, Shaw will be happy with his performance, but England were poor in possession. Shaw has become a really good defender, but today, Spain was just better.”
Lee Dixon, former England international, on ITV1:
“You have to feel for them. There are some broken hearts out there. The best team won tonight. England were in and out of the game and didn’t really have total control of any of it. Spain were too good for them in the end. What a sad way to go out.”
Spain Celebrates:
Spanish players and fans celebrated wildly, acknowledging their dominance throughout the tournament. Luis de la Fuente’s side have been the best side all tournament, by some way,” noted a commentator.
England’s Heartbreak:
For England, the loss was a bitter pill to swallow. Having reached two finals under Southgate, only to lose both, the team and fans were left reflecting on what could have been.
Looking Forward:
Prince William and Prince George, who were seen celebrating Palmer’s equalizer, encapsulated the nation’s rollercoaster of emotions. Despite the loss, the future looks bright for England with young talents like Palmer showing promise.
The journey for England’s first major trophy since 1966 continues, but the resilience and spirit shown in this tournament give hope for the future. For now, Spain revels in their well-deserved victory.
