Spain win Euro 2024 final with late Oyarzabal goal

In a momentous Euro 2024 final, Spain clinched a remarkable victory over England with a late goal from substitute Mikel Oyarzabal.

The win marks Spain's return as a dominant force in international football and sets a new benchmark in their football history.

England had longed for a victory for nearly sixty years, and it seemed like their moment had finally arrived when Spain's key midfielder, Rodri, was forced off due to injury at halftime.

Spain quickly turned the tide and seized the lead just two minutes into the second half. Nico Williams, assisted by his talented teammate Lamine Yamal, found the back of the net.

England once again demonstrated their trademark resilience at this Euros, with substitute Cole Palmer making an immediate impact by scoring the equalizer just moments after stepping onto the pitch.

However, their impressive comeback in the game was abruptly halted when Oyarzabal, the talented forward from Real Sociedad, converted a cross in the 86th minute, securing Spain's fourth European Championship title - a remarkable achievement, marking their third win in the last five editions.

"Today has been an extraordinary day, as a team has rightfully earned the title of champions of Europe," shared Spain coach Luis de la Fuente in an interview with broadcaster.

In 1964, 2008, and 2012, they emerged victorious, with the last two victories sandwiching their triumph at the 2010 World Cup, marking the golden era of Xavi Hernandez, Xabi Alonso, and Andres Iniesta.

It remains to be seen whether this generation, with the talented Yamal leading the way on his 17th birthday, can replicate the accomplishments of their predecessors. However, their recent victory was certainly well-deserved.

Spain has emerged as the dominant team in Germany over the past month. Despite the majority of the crowd supporting England, they showed no signs of being intimidated by the atmosphere at the Olympiastadion.

England had set their sights on securing their first men's international title since their historic triumph at the 1966 World Cup. However, their dreams were dashed as they narrowly missed out on victory in their inaugural final on foreign territory.

Gareth Southgate, the team's manager, expressed the immense heartbreak of losing the final, a sentiment that resonated with fans and players alike.

Spain deserves congratulations for their outstanding performance in the tournament, proving themselves the strongest and particularly impressive team tonight.

Following their heartbreaking loss to Italy on penalties three years ago, England has become the first team in history to suffer consecutive defeats in the Euro finals.

At 30, Captain Harry Kane continues his quest for that elusive first trophy despite a career filled with remarkable goal-scoring achievements.

Spain successfully overcome Rodri's injury

Spain dominated the game initially, leaving England to play catch-up for most of the first half.

In a match primarily controlled by Spain, it wasn't until the dying moments of the first half that a shot on target materialized. Phil Foden's attempt, resulting from a well-executed free-kick by Declan Rice, was met with a solid save by keeper Unai Simon.

Before that crucial moment, Rodri unfortunately injured himself while colliding with his teammate Aymeric Laporte while attempting to block a shot from Kane.

Despite the setback of Rodri's injury, Spain's highly skilled holding midfielder showed remarkable resilience. His departure from the game, making room for Martin Zubimendi when play resumed, did not deter Spain's determination to win.

Despite the potential disruption caused by the absence of a critical player, Spain's adaptability and quick thinking were on display as they quickly took the lead without hesitation, showing their ability to navigate unexpected challenges.

England's anticipation of the threat that Spain's wingers posed was evident. Their strategic collaboration resulted in the goal. Yamal received a pass from Dani Carvajal and swiftly maneuvered his way inside, a move England had anticipated and planned for.

In a display of skill and precision, Williams was set free by his teammate and expertly found the back of the net with a composed, well-placed strike that nestled into the far corner.

England faced the challenge of having to make a comeback, but this was a situation they had successfully navigated in their three previous knockout matches.

In a strategic move reminiscent of the semi-final against the Netherlands, Southgate made a substitution on the hour mark, replacing his talisman Kane with Ollie Watkins.

Spain had several opportunities to extend their lead, and their fans enthusiastically celebrated every successful pass with an 'ole.' Meanwhile, Southgate made a tactical substitution, bringing Palmer instead of Kobbie Mainoo.