Munich erupted in red and yellow as Spain booked their place in the Euro 2024 final with a thrilling 2-1 victory over France. The night belonged to 16-year-old wonderkid Lamine Yamal, who etched his name into history by becoming the youngest scorer in European Championship history.
France started brightly, with Kylian Mbappe causing havoc down the left. His inch-perfect cross found the head of Randal Kolo Muani, who nodded past a despairing Unai Simon to give Les Bleus a dream start in the 8th minute. The lead, however, proved short-lived.
Yamal, a player whose name will forever be synonymous with this tournament, silenced the French faithful with a moment of individual brilliance in the 21st minute. Picking the ball up 30 yards from goal, the teenager unleashed a curling effort that arrowed past Mike Maignan and nestled into the top corner. The Munich Football Arena stood stunned, then erupted in a wave of Spanish ecstasy.
Just four minutes later, the Spanish lead was doubled in fortuitous circumstances. Dani Olmo‘s powerful shot deflected off Jules Kounde sending the Spanish into a frenzy.
The second half was a tense affair, with France desperate for an equalizer. Aurelien Tchouameni came close with a headed effort, while Mbappe saw a long-range effort palmed away by a resolute Simon.
Spain, known for their attacking flair, displayed a newfound defensive resolve. Eric Garcia and Aymeric Laporte marshalled the backline superbly, snuffing out any French threats. Luis Enrique’s men weathered the storm, their back four proving to be the bedrock of their victory.
This win marks a significant moment for Spanish football. Not only are they on the cusp of a historic fourth European title, but they have unearthed a generational talent in Yamal. The youngster’s audacious strike will be replayed for years to come, a symbol of Spain’s present and their bright future. France, meanwhile, are left to rue their missed opportunities as they fall at the penultimate hurdle. Spain now await the winner of the England-Netherlands clash
