The Euro 2024 final was nothing short of a thrilling spectacle as Spain emerged victorious against England with a late goal from Mikel Oyarzabal. Nico Williams gave Spain the lead early in the second half, only for Cole Palmer to equalize for England. However, it was Oyarzabal’s heroics, along with a crucial goalline clearance from Dani Olmo, that ultimately ended Spain’s 12-year wait for a major international trophy.
Spain’s triumph in Euro 2024 marked their fourth European Championship title, now making them the most successful nation in the tournament’s history, surpassing Germany’s three titles. In addition, Spain has now won four consecutive finals at major tournaments, establishing their dominance in international football.
On the other hand, England had to settle for the runner-up position for the second consecutive European Championship, becoming the first team ever to achieve this feat. Furthermore, their ongoing 58-year title drought remains the longest among former FIFA World Cup champions, highlighting their struggles on the international stage.
Spain extended their remarkable Euros win streak to a record seven games, becoming the first European team to achieve a perfect 7-0-0 record at a major tournament. This historic feat puts them on par with Italy’s 1934-38 World Cup team for the longest win streak by a European team at a major tournament.
Several players also made history during Euro 2024. Dani Carvajal and Nacho joined an elite club of players who have played in and won both the UEFA Champions League Final and the UEFA Euro Final in the same season. Lamine Yamal became the first player to score or assist in the Quarterfinals, Semifinals, and Final of a single European Championship, showcasing his exceptional performance throughout the tournament.
The final also saw young talents shine, with Lamine Yamal becoming the youngest player to feature in a World Cup or European Championship final at 17 years and 1 day. Nico Williams also made a mark by becoming the second youngest player to score a goal in a European Championship final at just 20 years and 2 days.
Mikel Oyarzabal’s 86th-minute match-winner off the bench goes down in history as the second-latest game-winner in Euro final history, highlighting his clutch performance when it mattered most. Furthermore, Luis de la Fuente made history by becoming the first manager to win the Euros, U-19 Euros, and U-21 Euros, solidifying his place in football history.
Despite an impressive tournament, Harry Kane finished as the joint-leading goalscorer in Euro 2024 but failed to lift the trophy once again. This marked the fifth final that Kane has played for club and country without securing a victory, raising questions about his ability to deliver in crucial moments.
Euro 2024 provided fans with unforgettable moments and historical milestones, with Spain emerging as the worthy champions. The tournament showcased the best of European football talent and solidified Spain’s reputation as a dominant force in international competitions.
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