Spain vs France Euro 2024: Highlights, Records, and Spain's Journey

The Euro 2024 tournament has been a rollercoaster of emotions, showcasing some of the best football action. One of the most thrilling matches was the Spain vs France semifinal, where young prodigy Lamine Yamal made history. Let’s take a closer look at Spain’s journey to the semifinal, the key moments of the match, and what to expect in the final against England.

Spain’s Journey to the Semifinals

Spain entered Euro 2024 with high hopes and a talented squad eager to reclaim their glory. Their journey through the tournament has been marked by dominant performances and strategic brilliance.

Group Stage Performance

• Match 1: Spain vs Italy - 1-0
• Match 2: Spain vs Albania - 1-0
• Match 3: Spain vs Georgia - 4-1

Spain topped their group with a perfect record, displaying a solid defense and a potent attack. They scored 6 goals while conceding only once, setting the tone for their knockout stage campaign.

Knockout Stages

• Round of 16: Spain vs Georgia - 4-1
• Quarterfinals: Spain vs Germany - 2-1

In the knockout stages, Spain continued their impressive form. They defeated Georgia with ease in the Round of 16 and overcame a tough challenge from Germany in the quarterfinals, securing their spot in the semifinals.

France’s Journey to the Semifinals

France's path to the semifinals was equally impressive, highlighted by resilience and tactical prowess.

Group Stage Performance

• Match 1: France vs Denmark - 1-0
• Match 2: France vs Ukraine - 2-0
• Match 3: France vs Sweden - 1-1

France navigated through their group with strong performances, finishing at the top with 2 wins and 1 draw.

Knockout Stages

• Round of 16: France vs Belgium - 1-0
• Quarterfinals: France vs Portugal - 0-0 (5-3 on penalties)

France faced a stern test against Portugal in the quarterfinals, ultimately prevailing in a dramatic penalty shootout. Despite the absence of their captain Kylian Mbappé in extra time, Les Bleus showed remarkable composure to secure their place in the semifinals.

The Semifinal Clash: Spain vs France

The semifinal match between Spain and France was highly anticipated, with both teams boasting talented squads and a rich footballing history. The match, held at the Munich Football Arena, lived up to the hype with thrilling action and historic moments.

Key Stats from the Semifinal

Key Moments in the Semifinal

France Takes Early Lead France started strong with Randal Kolo Muani scoring in the 9th minute, marking their first open-play goal of the tournament. The early goal put Spain on the back foot, but they quickly regrouped.

Lamine Yamal’s Equalizer In the 21st minute, Lamine Yamal scored a sensational goal from outside the box, becoming the youngest player to score in the history of the Euros. At just 16 years old, Yamal’s composure and skill were remarkable.

Dani Olmo’s Winning Goal Just four minutes after Yamal’s equalizer, Dani Olmo scored the decisive goal, initially ruled as an own goal but later credited to him. Olmo’s goal secured Spain’s lead and ultimately their victory.

"It's incredible what the team is doing. We deserve to be in the final, one step from glory," Olmo said. "Whether it is my goal, or Koundé's, it doesn't matter. The important thing is that we are in the final."

Lamine Yamal: Breaking Records

Lamine Yamal’s performance in the semifinal was historic. He not only became the youngest player to feature in a Euros match but also the youngest to score, breaking records previously held by Pele and others.

• Youngest Player in Euros History: At 16 years old, Yamal’s inclusion in the starting XI set a new benchmark for the youngest participant.
• Youngest Goalscorer in Euros History: His stunning goal in the 21st minute made him the youngest scorer in the tournament's history.

"I don't try to think about it too much, just enjoy myself and help the team," Yamal said after the match. "I am very happy for the goal and for the win."

Spain vs England: The Final Showdown

With their victory over France, Spain secured their place in the Euro 2024 final, where they will face England. England reached the final after a dramatic 2-1 win against the Netherlands, with Ollie Watkins scoring the stoppage-time winner.

What to Expect in the Final

• Spain’s Strengths: Spain’s aggressive team play, solid defensive strategy and emerging young talents like Yamal and Olmo make them formidable opponents.
• England’s Journey: England’s performances and tactical adjustments have been key to their success. The final promises to be a thrilling encounter between two top teams.

Conclusion

Spain’s journey to the Euro 2024 final has been a testament to their skill, determination, and strategic brilliance. From dominant group stage performances to overcoming tough challenges in the knockout stages, they have proven their mettle. The semifinal against France will be remembered for Lamine Yamal’s historic achievements and the team’s resilient performance.

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