NEW DELHI: In a high-stakes semi-final in Munich, 16-year-old
Lamine Yamal
became the youngest goalscorer in
European Championship
history, leading
Spain
to a dramatic 2-1 comeback win over France and a spot in the
Euro 2024
final.
France took the lead in the ninth minute through Randal Kolo Muani, who headed in a cross from
Kylian Mbappe
. Spain’s response was swift as Yamal, who turns 17 just before the final, equalized with a long-range shot that soared into the top corner.
Just four minutes later, Dani Olmo’s deflected shot put Spain ahead.
Yamal, who has already contributed three assists in the tournament, expressed his pride in the achievement.
"I'm just enjoying myself and I'm proud to be in the final," Yamal said.
Spain, a three-time champion, are now on the verge of a fourth European title, having become the first team to win six games in a single Euros.
"We are one step away from glory," Olmo was quoted as saying by AFP. "We are very, very close. This team is unbelievable. We deserve it."
Spain's control over the midfield allowed them to dictate the pace of the match after taking the lead, frequently maintaining possession and limiting France's opportunities. Despite scoring early, France could not find their rhythm, with attackers like Mbappe struggling against Spain’s disciplined defense.
France coach Didier Deschamps acknowledged Spain's effective game management.
"They created difficulties for us as they controlled the game better than us, even if we kept going until the end," Deschamps said.
As Spain gear up for their first major tournament final since Euro 2012, they await the winner of the Netherlands vs England semi-final. The final will be held this weekend in Berlin, where Spain aim to secure another chapter in their storied history in European football.
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