The Euro 2024 tournament reached its thrilling conclusion on Sunday as Spain clinched their fourth championship title, defeating England 2-1. Nico Williams (47th minute) and Mikel Oyarzabal (86th minute) scored for Spain, while Cole Palmer briefly equalized for England with just over 15 minutes left.
Spain’s victory at the European Championship marks their fourth title, surpassing Germany’s record. Their impressive performance throughout the tournament, including scoring the most goals and winning all seven matches, solidifies their status as the best team. They defeated top teams like Italy, Germany, France, and England, showcasing their dominance.
Resilience was key for Spain, especially against Germany and France. They demonstrated their ability to bounce back, coming from behind against Georgia and France, and responding well to England’s equalizer. The team’s determination was evident until the final moments, with Dani Olmo making a crucial goal-line clearance in stoppage time.
La Roja’s future looks bright, having won three of the last five Euros. This team differs significantly from the 2008 and 2012 champions, with Jesús Navas being the only remaining player from the 2012 final. A new generation, led by Nico Williams and 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, is emerging. The anticipation for the 2026 World Cup in North America is already building.
Spain and England had contrasting substitute options. England had more well-known players who could change the game, while Spain lacked such impactful options. However, Spain’s substitutions maintained their consistent approach, which ultimately worked in their favor.
Is it better to change personnel and system or stick to the plan and make necessary adjustments? Spain’s success suggests the latter can be effective. England’s substitutes altered their game, while Spain maintained their strategy, which didn’t harm them.
England manager Gareth Southgate made a bold move by substituting Harry Kane after an hour of play. Although Kane is England’s top scorer, his fitness during the tournament was questionable. The change brought a new dynamic to England’s attack, with Ollie Watkins and Cole Palmer adding pace and positional discipline.
Kane’s future remains uncertain, but this tournament showed that England has numerous attacking options.
England’s 60-year wait for a major men’s trophy continues, leaving manager Gareth Southgate in a difficult position. Despite reaching the final, Southgate faced criticism for his conservative style. His future with the team remains uncertain.
Spain’s wingers, Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, outperformed England’s Phil Foden and Bukayo Saka at Euro 2024. The Spanish duo contributed more goals and assists, benefiting from a system that utilized their skills effectively.
Cole Palmer scored as a substitute in the Euro final, briefly equalizing for England. His impressive season at Chelsea and fearless play made him a standout performer, despite England’s defeat.
Lamine Yamal celebrated his 17th birthday just before becoming a European champion. His exceptional performance, including a tournament-high four assists, has marked Euro 2024 as his breakout tournament.
