By: Ben  Xu

It’s July 14, 2024, and Spain has just beaten England to become the 2024 Euro Cup champions. Led by the young star, Lamine Yamal, Spain has made soccer history in Berlin’s Olympic Stadium.

This final game was filled with hysteria as both Spain and England had clear chances of victory. Lamine Yamal created the first goal by assisting his teammate Nico Williams. Nico Williams scored the first goal early in the second half, putting Spain up 1 against England. However, England persisted and scored a goal later in the game, and its players began mentally preparing for extra time. But Spain wasn’t finished yet. Mikel Oyarzbal scored another goal for Spain in the last few minutes of the game. The finals finished with Spain ahead 2 – 1.

Lamine Yamal, who turned 17 the day before the finals, was significant to Spain’s success. Although this young player didn’t score in the finals game, he’s still celebrated for his talent and energy. He became a star when he scored an incredible shot in the semi-finals against France that ricocheted off the post and into the goal. At times, people even call him the ‘New Messi’ for his amazing capabilities. His energy also brings life and positivity to the Spaniard group. Spain’s goalkeeper, Unai Simon, said, “Before the final, I was nervous on the bus, and [Lamine Yamal] and Nico (who turned 22 this month) were dancing, enjoying every moment,” describing Lamine Yamal’s upbeat energy and spirit even before the finals.

Spain’s victory was celebrated with joy. Players wrapped themselves with flags as they prepared to hoist the trophy of their success. Spain’s victory was, of course, also England’s suffering. England had a big chance to win but just didn’t get to finish the run. Still, the Spanish victory was well deserved. They became the first team to win 4 European championships and also started the legacy of Lamine Yamal.

Sources:
https://www.nytimes.com/2024/07/14/world/europe/euro-2024-final-spain-lamine-yamal.html
https://www.npr.org/2024/07/15/nx-s1-5040402/spain-takes-it-all-in-soccer-and-tennis
https://npr.org/2024/07/14/nx-s1-5037950/spain-and-england-face-off-in-euro-cup-final#:~:text=SCOTT%20DETROW%2C%20HOST%3A,score%20of%202%20to%201.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/5653311/2024/07/24/lamine-yamal-barcelona-spain-euros/