KATHMANDU: Spain won their fourth European Championship in a thrilling final against England at Berlin's Olympiastadion in Euro 2024. Nico Williams scored for Spain early in the second half, following a fine assist from 17-year-old Lamine Yamal. England equalized after Cole Palmer's brilliant goal from outside the box, but Spain won late on when Mikel Oyarzabal touched in Marc Cucurella's perfect cross.
Spain has won the Euro title three times before, in 1964, 2008, and 2012. Following their penalty-filled loss to Italy in the Euro 2020 final, England suffers another defeat in a critical championship game. Despite Spain's possession and lack of evident chances in the first half, the game started slowly, with both teams looking for opportunities.
The injury that forced midfielder Rodri to be replaced at halftime was a blow for Spain. But they came back strong, with Williams, who is only 22 years old, becoming the second youngest player to score in a Euro final, shortly after the half. The goal energized Spain, with Dani Olmo and Álvaro Morata coming close to extending their lead.
England fought back with manager Gareth Southgate making bold substitutions, including Palmer, who equalized with a composed finish. The English pressed for a winner but were denied by Spain's defense and goalkeeper Unai Simón. As the game approached full-time, Oyarzabal secured Spain's victory with a clinical finish, capping off a memorable tournament for La Roja.
Rodri was awarded tournament MVP, while Yamal, who turned 17 on the eve of the final, was chosen as the tournament's best young player. Despite England's disappointment, King Charles III expressed delight in the team's performance in reaching the final and condoled their setback, underlining the country's support for future success.
