By: Olivia Xia

Throughout the Euros Lamine Yamal, who just turned 17 on Saturday, stood out the most. While he is younger than most, he is still one of the best players on the Spanish Football Team. Yet, he is so young that he needs a guardian and special permits to even be able to even attend the 2024 Euros. Leading Spain to victory in the semifinals, Yamal is a rising star.

After a 2-1 triumph against England in the Euro 2024 final, Spain was the greatest soccer team in Europe once again. The Spanish team celebrated their victory, draping flags and cheering with their fans. Lamine Yamal was bouncing and dancing with joy, as this was the first time he had ever won a Euro Cup.

And while he is young, we cannot dismiss the fact that his contribution to the tournament was invaluable. He scored the goal that broke the tie in the semifinal match with France, and it was his pass that led Spain to score at the end.

On the other side of the match, England fans and players wept and cried, disheartened by the loss. But back at home, their domestic violence rates increased by 38%. What’s especially alarming is the fact that domestic violence rates increase by 26% even when they win.

Although Yamal did not score the final goal , he is an irreplaceable player for the Spainish football team.