BERLIN (AP) — Spain has etched its name into European soccer history once again, claiming a record fourth European Championship title. In a thrilling final that underscored their tournament dominance, Spain defeated England 2-1, extending the Three Lions’ agonizing wait for a major international trophy.
Mikel Oyarzabal, the unexpected hero of the night, sealed Spain’s victory in the 86th minute. The substitute striker, brought on for captain Alvaro Morata, capitalized on a precise left-wing cross from Marc Cucurella, slotting the ball home and breaking the deadlock in a match that seemed destined for extra time at Berlin’s Olympiastadion.
For England, the birthplace of football, the quest for a major men’s title since the 1966 World Cup continues. The English players could only watch as Morata lifted the coveted silver trophy amidst a shower of confetti and fireworks in the iconic stadium, originally built for the 1936 Olympics.
This victory adds 2024 to Spain’s previous Euro triumphs in 1964, 2008, and 2012, cementing their status as a European football powerhouse.
“Here we are, champions of Europe,” exclaimed Nico Williams, whose opening goal in the 47th minute ignited the Spanish side, only to be equalized by England’s substitute Cole Palmer in the 73rd. “We are absolutely ecstatic and hope this momentum continues as we set our sights on the 2026 World Cup.”
Lamine Yamal, the prodigious talent who celebrated his 17th birthday just a day before the final, became the youngest player ever to grace a European Championship final. Yamal’s dazzling run and perfectly weighted pass set up Williams’ initial goal, showcasing the dynamic duo who have become emblematic of Spain’s exciting and diverse national team.
Yamal’s multicultural background, with a mother from Equatorial Guinea and a father from Morocco, and Williams, 22, with Ghanaian parents who undertook a perilous journey to Europe in search of a better life, embody the evolving face of modern Spain. Their story, particularly Williams’ parents’ arduous trek across the Sahara desert, adds a poignant layer to Spain’s Euro 2024 success.
“I believe this is a watershed moment, and we are profoundly grateful,” Williams, named player of the match for his electrifying performance, declared. “My parents have endured immense hardship to reach this point. Their sacrifices have instilled in me a deep sense of respect and loyalty. I am overjoyed because we are making history.”
Nico Williams’ decision to represent Spain, unlike his brother Inaki who plays for Ghana, has solidified his status as a national icon in Spain.
Spain’s Euro 2024 victory signals their resurgence as a dominant force in international football, adding to their recent triumphs, including the Women’s World Cup and the men’s UEFA Nations League title in 2023. The nation’s footballing pedigree is further underscored by Spanish men’s teams having won an astounding 23 consecutive major finals in club and international competitions since 2001.
“I stated before the tournament, nobody can compete with us,” Williams confidently asserted.
Spain’s flawless run throughout Euro 2024, winning all seven matches – an unprecedented achievement – and breaking the tournament record with 15 goals, further validates their claim as deserving champions.
The final whistle triggered scenes of jubilation as defender Dani Carvajal was swarmed by ecstatic teammates. Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, was hoisted into the air in celebration by his victorious squad. Cucurella and Yamal led the charge, jumping over advertising boards to join the jubilant Spanish fans in the stands.
“This is the ultimate birthday gift,” Yamal beamed. “It’s a dream come true.”
After receiving his medal, the teenage sensation turned to the crowd, pumped his fist, stuck out his tongue, and flashed a wide grin, reveling in the moment. Yamal and his teammates proudly donned Spain jerseys emblazoned with “Kings of Europe” and the number “4” to commemorate their historic win.
In Madrid, fans erupted in celebration, chanting “champions, champions” as they watched the game on giant screens. The day was doubly celebratory for Spanish sports, as Carlos Alcaraz had clinched his second consecutive Wimbledon men’s singles title just hours before the Euro 2024 final.
For England, this defeat marks another painful chapter in their long wait for major silverware. Having lost the previous Euro final to Italy in a penalty shootout in 2021, this loss extends their trophy drought to six decades by the next World Cup.
While the men’s team faces continued heartbreak, England’s women’s team has enjoyed recent success, winning the European Championship in 2021 and reaching the World Cup final in 2023, offering a contrasting narrative of English footballing fortunes.
“This time, it just wasn’t to be,” Prince William, present at the final alongside Spanish King Felipe, acknowledged on social media. “We are all immensely proud of you.”
Despite England’s resilience in coming from behind in four consecutive games leading up to the final, their comeback efforts fell short against a resolute Spanish side. A crucial goal-line clearance by Dani Olmo in the 89th minute extinguished England’s last hopes.
“It’s been a challenging journey, and we performed exceptionally well to reach this stage, but ultimately, we will be judged on this final,” England captain Harry Kane lamented.
“It’s incredibly painful,” he added, “and the hurt will linger for a considerable time.”
England coach Gareth Southgate, who has been at the helm for eight years, guiding the team to the 2018 World Cup semifinals, refrained from making immediate decisions about his future, with his contract expiring in December.
“The majority of this squad will be around for the upcoming World Cup and the next Euros,” Southgate noted. “There is much to anticipate, but at this moment, that offers little solace.”
Ciaran Fahey and James Ellingworth in Berlin, Daniella Matar in Milan and Joseph Wilson in Barcelona, Spain, contributed to this report.
AP Euro 2024: https://apnews.com/hub/euro-2024
