Spain clinched the Euro 2024 trophy with a dramatic 2-1 victory over England, extending the Three Lions’ wait for a major trophy into a 60th year.
The match saw Spain dominate possession and pressure, resulting in Nico Williams’ opening goal just two minutes after halftime, following an excellent run and pass from Lamine Yamal. This goal came as a boost despite the loss of Rodri to a halftime injury.
England, struggling to find their rhythm, substituted captain Harry Kane after a lackluster performance. His replacement, Cole Palmer, became England’s hero off the bench with a superb strike that equalized the score. Palmer rifled home Jude Bellingham’s layoff, shifting the momentum towards England.
As extra-time loomed, Spain ramped up the pressure again. England’s goalkeeper, Jordan Pickford, made two brilliant saves, including a superb stop against Lamine Yamal, who was later named the young player of the tournament.
However, Spain’s moment came with just four minutes of normal time remaining. Marc Cucurella’s cross found Mikel Oyarzabal, who turned it home, leaving England with little time to respond.
England thought they had leveled when Declan Rice met Palmer’s corner unmarked, but Unai Simon parried it to Marc Guehi, whose nod towards the goal was cleared by Dani Olmo. Rice’s subsequent rebound went over the bar, sealing England’s fate.
This victory made Spain the first team to win four European Championships, while England became the first team to lose consecutive European finals.
