Spain booked their place in the Euro 2024 final with a thrilling 2-1 comeback victory over France in a pulsating encounter. The match was overshadowed by the emergence of a teenage prodigy, Lamine Yamal, who etched his name into the history books with a record-breaking strike.
France drew first blood in the ninth minute. Kylian Mbappé, sporting a mask-free face for the first time since his earlier tournament injury, whipped in a delightful cross that found Randal Kolo Muani’s head for the opening goal. However, Spain’s response was swift and decisive.
The 21st minute witnessed a moment of magic as the young Yamal, unfazed by the occasion, unleashed a stunning left-footed curler from 25 yards out.
The ball rocketed past the despairing French goalkeeper and nestled into the top corner, rewriting the record books. At just 16 years and 362 days old, Yamal became the youngest goalscorer in European Championship history, surpassing the legendary Pelé’s long-standing record.
Spain’s momentum continued as they doubled their lead just four minutes later. Dani Olmo’s shot took a wicked deflection off Jules Koundé, wrong-footing the French custodian and sending the ball into the net.
The first half was a captivating display of attacking football from both sides. France, seeking an equaliser, piled on the pressure after the break. Aurelien Tchouameni came close with a headed effort that was brilliantly saved, while Mbappé’s ambitious attempt from distance sailed over the bar.
Despite France’s dominance in possession, Spain’s resolute defence held firm, thwarting every French attack. Mbappé, having shed his mask but not his recent struggles, spurned a golden opportunity to level the score late on, firing over the bar in a moment that epitomised his waning form.
The Spanish backline, marshalling a tournament-high 13 goals scored by their opponents, proved impenetrable, securing a well-deserved victory.
This win extends their perfect record in the competition, having won all five of their matches. They now await the winner of the clash between England and the Netherlands, with the promise of a potential fourth European Championship title on the horizon.
Yamal: A Star on the Rise
Lamine Yamal’s performance was undoubtedly the defining aspect of the match. The youngster, not yet 17, has already enjoyed a remarkable breakthrough season at Barcelona, becoming both their youngest ever player and goalscorer. He has seamlessly translated that domestic success onto the international stage, displaying a maturity and composure that belies his age. Yamal exuded confidence throughout the encounter, culminating in his record-breaking strike – a moment that underlined his immense potential to become a future global superstar.
