Spain clinched the Euro 2024 trophy with a dramatic 2-1 victory over England, courtesy of Mikel Oyarzabal’s 86th-minute goal. This extends England’s wait for a major trophy to 60 years, heading into the 2026 World Cup.
Spain dominated possession throughout the match, and their pressure paid off with Nico Williams’ goal just two minutes into the second half. This came after an impressive run and pass by Lamine Yamal, providing a perfect response to losing Rodri to injury at halftime. England, despite captain Harry Kane’s disappointing performance, found hope when substitute Cole Palmer equalized with a stunning strike, converting Jude Bellingham’s layoff. This goal seemed to shift momentum in England’s favor.
As extra time loomed, Spain regained control. England goalkeeper Jordan Pickford made several crucial saves, including denying the tournament’s young player, Lamine Yamal, twice. However, Spain’s persistence paid off when Marc Cucurella’s cross found Oyarzabal, who scored the decisive goal with just four minutes left in regulation time.
England nearly equalized again when Declan Rice’s header from Palmer’s corner was parried by Unai Simon, and Marc Guehi’s follow-up was cleared off the line by Dani Olmo. Despite their efforts, England could not stage another comeback, and Spain celebrated their record fourth European Championship title.
Analysis: England Faces Familiar Heartbreak – What Needs to Change?
Sky Sports’ Sam Blitz reflects on England’s back-to-back Euro final losses, questioning if the team needs a strategic shift. Unlike the penalty shootout loss to Italy three years ago, England fell short in crucial moments against Spain.
The team failed to capitalize on Spain’s vulnerability after Rodri’s injury and couldn’t maintain pressure after Palmer’s equalizer. Despite having a squad rich in quality and depth, England relied too heavily on last-minute heroics.
Gareth Southgate deserves credit for transforming the team’s image, but perhaps it’s time for another evolution. Can this exciting squad become a winning one?
Southgate’s Reaction: “We Didn’t Do Enough”
England manager Gareth Southgate expressed his disappointment on ITV Sport:
“I’m devastated for everybody. The players have been incredible, and I’m so proud of what they’ve done, but we’ve just fallen a little bit short. We had momentum after the equalizer and a big chance at the end, but overall, I’m not sure we did enough.
“Spain presses well, and you have to keep the ball when you win it back. Defensively, we were fine in the first half, but retaining possession better is something we need to work on. In the end, that might have been what we were missing.”
Credit: Sky Sports
