The UEFA Euro 2024 tournament has reached its climax, setting the stage for a highly anticipated final showdown. After weeks of thrilling matches and dramatic upsets, Spain and England have emerged as the two contenders vying for the coveted title. Football fans worldwide are asking the burning question: Who Will Win Euro 2024?
Spain team celebrating their victory
Spain secured their place in the Euro 2024 final after a hard-fought 2-1 victory over France in Tuesday’s semi-final. Despite conceding an early goal in the 8th minute, the Spanish team demonstrated resilience and determination. The spotlight shone brightly on 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal, who played a pivotal role in Spain’s comeback.
Yamal etched his name in history by scoring a stunning equalizer from outside the box in the 21st minute. This remarkable feat made him the youngest player ever to score in a Euros or World Cup match, surpassing the legendary Pelé’s long-standing record. Adding to France’s woes, Dani Olmo swiftly followed up with another goal in the 25th minute, giving Spain a lead they resolutely defended against a persistent French attack. This victory marked Spain’s sixth win in the tournament, setting a new record for the most wins in a single edition of the Euros and the most consecutive wins in a single tournament.
England’s path to the final was equally dramatic, culminating in a 2-1 triumph over the Netherlands. Similar to Spain, England faced an early setback, conceding a goal to Xavi Simons in the 7th minute. However, Harry Kane quickly responded with a penalty kick in the 18th minute, leveling the score. The tension mounted as the clock ticked down, until Ollie Watkins, a late substitute, became the hero of the hour. Watkins scored a crucial goal in the 90th minute, securing England’s victory and sending them to the Euro 2024 final. Watkins’ late goal was only the second 90th-minute winning goal in a Euro knockout match that was tied, highlighting the nail-biting nature of the encounter.
Spain team celebrating their victory
As the final approaches, all eyes are on the odds to determine who is favored to lift the Euro 2024 trophy. According to DraftKings Sportsbook as of July 10, the odds are as follows:
Odds to Win UEFA Euro 2024:
- Spain: -155 (Bet $155 to win $100 profit, $255 total payout)
- England: +120 (Bet $100 to win $120 profit, $220 total payout)
These odds indicate that Spain is considered the favorite to win Euro 2024. A negative odds value for Spain signifies that bookmakers perceive them as having a higher probability of winning. Conversely, positive odds for England suggest they are seen as the underdogs, but a bet on them would yield a higher return if they were to win.
To further contextualize the upcoming final, let’s take a look at the history of UEFA Euro champions. Spain has a strong pedigree in the competition, having won the title in 1964, 2008, and 2012. England, on the other hand, is seeking their first-ever Euro championship. While England reached the final in Euro 2020, they were defeated by Italy.
Past UEFA Euro Champions (Selected Years):
- 2020: Italy
- 2016: Portugal
- 2012: Spain
- 2008: Spain
- 2000: France
- 1996: Germany
- 1964: Spain
The Euro 2024 final between Spain and England promises to be a captivating clash. Spain’s historical success and current form make them the bookmakers’ favorite. However, England’s strong performance throughout the tournament and their hunger for a first Euro title cannot be discounted. Ultimately, who will win Euro 2024 will depend on which team can best execute their game plan and rise to the occasion on the final stage. Football fans are eagerly waiting to witness the drama unfold and see who will be crowned the Euro 2024 champion.
