Defeating England, Spain wins EURO 2024

The EURO 2024 final is a match between two teams with contrasting styles. Spain attacked impressively, while England played pragmatic football very effectively. At the Olympiastadion (Berlin, Germany), the attacking team won.

The first half was typical of both teams. Spain dominated the ball possession (nearly 70% of the time, according to Whoscored data).

England rarely attacked. However, in a proactive defensive game, the "Three Lions" played very tightly. Their defense effectively blocked Spain's two most dangerous players, Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams.

England were more successful in the first half. They kept their opponents at bay. Meanwhile, the only shot on target in the first half was taken by an England player (Phil Foden).

After a dull first half, the match became more exciting as it resumed. Yamal set up Williams for the opening goal in Spain's first attack of the second half.

England were forced to play attacking football. With their opponents no longer defending deep, Spain had more chances to score, but Dani Olmo and Alvaro Morata both missed one-on-one situations with the goalkeeper.

In a difficult situation, coach Gareth Southgate unexpectedly took off Harry Kane, then Kobbie Mainoo. The adjustment of the England team was effective. Cole Palmer - one of the two players coming on - made a dangerous long-range shot to score the equalizer.

However, Spain also made effective substitutions. Mikel Oyarzabal - who had replaced Morata earlier - passed the ball to the left wing and then ran into the box to meet Marc Cucurella's pass. The Spanish striker's close-range finish was the decisive goal that helped Spain win the EURO 2024 championship.

Xiao Ming