Spain And France: The Strong Battle At Euro 2024

Shilpa Rajan July 11, 2024

Spain became the first team to book a place in the finals. They are set to take on Gareth Southgate’s England in Berlin on Sunday. The UEFA European Championship 2024 has reached the final stage of the competition.

Spain faced plenty of challenges in their run to the final. The Group B winners won their first three games ahead of the knockout stage. Their next challenge came against Georgia in the Round of 16. After facing the debutants, Luis de la Fuente’s side faced hosts Germany. The Spanish team managed to get past this tough test to book a place against France in the semis.

Spain And France ready for a face-off

Both European powerhouses were ready to face each other. Spain has not won a major tournament since 2012 and this was their best performance since Euro 2012. France, on the other hand, played in the final of the FIFA World Cup 2022. They were looking for silverware this time.

The Spanish manager was without Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand due to suspension. Both defenders were regular choices at the back. This was a big worry for the Spanish team. France, on the other hand, had no injury worries or suspensions.

Also read: Spain Enters the Semi, Beating Germany in a Sensational Match

Early lead for the French

Spain has dominated possession throughout the tournament. They have dominated every team and were looking to knock out France. Kylian Mbappe & Co. relied on their pace. France focused on hitting the Spanish team on the counter.

Their idea paid off in the 9^th minute. Kylian Mbappe received the ball on the left wing. He likes to cut inside and open space for himself to take a shot. This time the Frenchman had other plans. He delivered a great cross into the box. Randal Kolo Muani took the biggest leap and headed the opener. PSG’s forward netted his first goal in the Euros.

Spain comeback

Didier Deschamps’s side had the early lead. Spain kept their composure after conceding within the first 10 minutes. It was a moment of magic from a youngster that brought Spain into the game. Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal became the youngest goal-scorer in the competition’s history.

Yamal opened up his body from outside the box and found the back of the net. His shot was unstoppable. This goal was followed by another goal in just a four-minute gap. Lamine’s goal came in the 21^st minute and Spain scored the second in the 25^th minute. Dani Olmo found space inside the penalty box. His skills on the ball were enough to create space. The shot was deflected of Jules Kounde. Spain took the lead in the first half.

Three Lions challenge

Spain held on to their lead and booked a place in the final. The hunt for a third European title still continues. They are the only team with a 100% record in the competition. The expectations are high, especially from the 16-year-old. Lamine Yamal has performed exceptionally in the tournament. The Spanish crowd will demand more in the final from their star-studded team.