Spain has secured their place in the Euro 2024 final with a thrilling 2-1 victory over France on Tuesday night in Munich. Sixteen-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal etched his name into the history books by becoming the youngest-ever scorer at the tournament.
France struck early when Randal Kolo Muani headed home a precise cross from Kylian Mbappé in the ninth minute. Mbappé, notably playing without the protective mask he had worn since breaking his nose in the group stages, seemed rejuvenated as he set up the opening goal.
However, Spain rallied quickly. In the 21st minute, Yamal showcased his prodigious talent with a stunning 25-yard strike that curled past France’s goalkeeper Mike Maignan and in off the left post. “We were in a difficult stretch after conceding so early,” Yamal reflected after the match. “I just took the ball and wanted to put it right there. I am very happy.”
Just four minutes later, Spain took the lead when Dani Olmo’s goal-bound shot deflected off French defender Jules Koundé and into the net. While initially recorded as an own goal, UEFA later awarded the goal to Olmo. “We are very close, just one more step to go,” Olmo said. “It is incredible what the team is doing. We deserve to be in the final, one step from glory.”
France pushed hard in the second half, dominating possession but unable to break through Spain’s resolute defense. Late chances fell to Theo Hernandez and Mbappé, but both failed to find the target. Spain could have extended their lead, with Yamal narrowly missing another spectacular effort.
France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged Spain’s superiority: “We knew they were a great team, and they proved it again tonight. Spain made things difficult for us. They were superior in terms of control and technique. So they deserve to win tonight.”
Spain, chasing a record fourth European Championship title, will face either England or the Netherlands in the final on Sunday in Berlin.
