Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal scored a dramatic late winner as Spain triumphed in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday, beating England 2-1. This victory not only confirmed Spain’s re-emergence as a powerhouse on the international stage but also dashed England’s hopes of securing their first major title in almost six decades.
Spain faced a significant setback when they lost influential midfielder Rodri to injury at half-time. Despite this, they managed to take the lead just two minutes into the second half. Nico Williams, set up by the prodigious talent Lamine Yamal, found the back of the net, giving Spain an early advantage.
England, known for their resilience in this tournament, staged another comeback. Substitute Cole Palmer, who had just entered the field, drove in a stunning equalizer in the 73rd minute. This goal breathed new life into the match, setting the stage for a thrilling finish.
The decisive moment came in the 86th minute when Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winning goal. He expertly turned in a cross, ensuring Spain clinched their fourth European Championship title and their third in the last five editions. Spain’s previous victories came in 1964, 2008, and 2012, the latter two during the golden era of Xavi Hernandez, Xabi Alonso, and Andres Iniesta, bookending their 2010 World Cup triumph.
England had anticipated threats from Spain’s wingers, and it was these players who combined for the opening goal. Lamine Yamal, after receiving a pass from Dani Carvajal, darted inside and set up Williams, who slotted the ball past Jordan Pickford with a precise, low shot into the far corner.
Facing a familiar situation, England needed to come from behind, a scenario they had successfully navigated in each of their three previous knockout games. Manager Gareth Southgate made a bold move by substituting talisman Harry Kane for Ollie Watkins on the hour mark, replicating the strategy that had worked in the semi-final against the Netherlands.
Spain continued to create opportunities, and their fans responded with jubilant cries of ‘ole’ with each successful pass. In an effort to shift momentum, Southgate introduced Cole Palmer for Kobbie Mainoo. This tactical change paid off almost immediately, as Bukayo Saka’s cross from the right was laid off by Jude Bellingham to Palmer, who scored with a low first-time shot into the corner, bringing England level.
However, Spain’s persistence paid off with just four minutes remaining. Oyarzabal initiated the decisive play by passing the ball to Marc Cucurella on the left wing. He then raced into the middle to meet Cucurella’s low cross, turning it into the net while staying just onside.
Spain held their nerve in the final minutes, with Dani Olmo making a crucial clearance off the line to deny England’s Marc Guehi a last-gasp equalizer. This critical defensive effort ensured Spain’s victory, cementing their status as a dominant force in European football and marking a significant achievement in their storied football history.
England, despite their valiant efforts, were left to rue missed opportunities and tactical decisions. Yet, their journey to the final and the resilience shown throughout the tournament offered hope for future successes. Spain’s victory, on the other hand, heralds a new chapter in their illustrious football legacy, blending the brilliance of emerging talents with the experience of seasoned players.
