Spain’s national football team boasts a rich history in the UEFA European Championship, securing the coveted title multiple times. To answer directly, the last time Spain won the Euro was in 2024, marking their fourth victory in the tournament’s history. This win solidified their status as one of Europe’s footballing giants, adding to their previous triumphs in 1964, 2008, and 2012. Let’s delve into Spain’s impressive Euro journey and explore each of their championship wins.
Spain’s Euro Victories: A Timeline of Triumphs
Spain has lifted the Henri Delaunay Trophy four times, showcasing periods of dominance and resurgence throughout the history of the European Championship. Each victory carries its own unique significance and story.
Euro 1964: The Inaugural Triumph on Home Soil
Image alt text: The Henri Delaunay Trophy awarded to the winner of the 1964 European Nations’ Cup, highlighting Spain’s first Euro victory.
The first time Spain won the Euro was in 1964, when they hosted the tournament, then known as the European Nations’ Cup. Under the guidance of coach José Villalonga, Spain navigated a challenging path to the final. After overcoming Hungary in the semi-finals in extra time, Spain faced the Soviet Union in the final held in Madrid. In a tightly contested match, Spain emerged victorious with a 2-1 win, securing their first major international trophy in front of their home crowd. This victory was a landmark moment for Spanish football, setting the stage for future successes.
Euro 2008: The Dawn of a Golden Era
Image alt text: Spanish national team players jubilantly celebrating their Euro 2008 victory against Germany in Vienna, marking the beginning of their golden era.
After a long wait, Spain’s next Euro triumph came in 2008, co-hosted by Austria and Switzerland. This victory is widely regarded as the beginning of Spain’s golden era in international football. Coached by Luis Aragonés, the team, featuring iconic players like Xavi Hernandez, Andres Iniesta, and Fernando Torres, played a mesmerizing brand of tiki-taka football. Spain dominated their group, then overcame Italy in a quarter-final penalty shootout, followed by a convincing 3-0 win against Russia in the semi-finals. In the final against Germany, Fernando Torres’s decisive goal secured a 1-0 victory, ending Spain’s 44-year wait for a second European Championship title. This win was not just a trophy; it was a statement of intent, signaling Spain’s arrival as a dominant force in world football.
Euro 2012: Dominance Continues in Poland and Ukraine
Image alt text: The Spanish national team celebrating their historic Euro 2012 victory over Italy in Kyiv, completing their unprecedented era of dominance.
Spain continued their unprecedented dominance by winning Euro 2012, held in Poland and Ukraine. Now under the guidance of Vicente del Bosque, Spain entered the tournament as reigning World and European champions. Despite some initial doubts and debates about their playing style, Spain showcased their resilience and quality throughout the tournament. After navigating a challenging group stage, they defeated France in the quarter-finals and Portugal in a tense semi-final penalty shootout. The final against Italy was a masterclass, with Spain delivering a dominant 4-0 victory, the largest ever margin in a Euro final. This win made Spain the first and only nation to win three consecutive major international tournaments (Euro 2008, World Cup 2010, Euro 2012), cementing their place in football history.
Euro 2024: Return to Glory in Germany
Image alt text: Spain’s national team players proudly lifting the Euro 2024 trophy after their final victory against England in Berlin, marking their fourth Euro title.
The last time Spain won the Euro was in 2024, hosted in Germany. Under coach Luis de la Fuente, Spain entered the tournament with a blend of experienced veterans and exciting young talents. They impressed from the group stage onwards, demonstrating tactical flexibility and a renewed attacking threat. Spain overcame Croatia, Italy, and Albania in the group stage, showcasing their strength and depth. In the knockout stages, they defeated Georgia, Germany in a tightly contested quarter-final, and France in the semi-finals. The final against England was a thrilling encounter, with Spain ultimately securing a 2-1 victory, claiming their record fourth European Championship title. This victory marked a resurgence for Spanish football, proving their enduring quality and ability to compete at the highest level.
Key Statistics and Records from Spain’s Euro Wins
Spain’s four Euro titles are underpinned by impressive statistics and records throughout the tournament’s history:
- Record EURO Titles: Spain’s four wins are the most of any nation, surpassing Germany’s and Italy’s three titles.
- Consistent Performers: Spain has qualified for 12 Euro final tournaments, demonstrating consistent participation and competitiveness.
- Dominant Knockout Stage Record: Spain boasts a strong knockout stage record, winning 11 out of 20 matches played, highlighting their ability to perform under pressure.
- Highest Scoring Euro: Euro 2024 saw Spain score 15 goals, their highest ever in a single Euro tournament, showcasing their attacking prowess.
- Youngest Goalscorer: In Euro 2024, Lamine Yamal became the youngest player to score in a Euro final tournament at just 16 years and 362 days old, highlighting the emergence of new Spanish talent.
Conclusion: Spain’s Enduring Euro Legacy
From their inaugural win in 1964 to their latest triumph in 2024, Spain’s journey in the European Championship is a story of success, dominance, and resurgence. The last time Spain won the Euro was in 2024, adding another glorious chapter to their footballing history. With a record four titles, Spain has firmly established itself as a powerhouse in European football, leaving a lasting legacy of skill, passion, and winning mentality. Their consistent performance and ability to produce world-class talent ensure that Spain will continue to be a major force in future European Championships.
