By: Kingsley Wong
Euro 2024 concluded last night at Berlin’s Olympiastadion, where England and Spain faced off in the final.
Following a quiet first half that ended with both teams not scoring a goal, England maintained hope. However, early in the second half, Nico Williams of Spain found the back of the net.
England mounted a comeback, spurred on by substitute Cole Palmer.
Palmer unleashed a stunning strike from beyond the box, finding the bottom corner of the net and revitalizing England’s chances of claiming the trophy.
However, Spain dashed England’s hopes with a late goal in the 86th minute, securing their victory and extending England men’s record to 58 years without a major tournament win.
Despite not being in top form throughout the tournament, England captain Harry Kane managed to claim a share of the Euro 2024 Golden Boot with three goals.
Speaking to the BBC, Kane described the defeat as “extremely painful,” noting, “I believe we did a commendable job in equalizing and bringing the score to 1-1, but we couldn’t capitalize on that momentum to press forward.”
England manager Gareth Southgate acknowledged, “Today, we didn’t maintain possession of the ball as effectively as we needed to. In games like these, it often comes down to fine margins, but overall, Spain were the standout team in the tournament and deserved their victory.”
There are now questions about Gareth Southgate’s future as England’s manager. Although he has made substantial improvements to the team over the past eight years, leading them to several important matches and achieving notable progress, he has not yet won a major tournament. This lack of a major title has led to speculation and uncertainty about whether he will continue in his role or if changes might be made.
“England undoubtedly possesses some exceptional young talents, and even the youngest players now have gained valuable tournament experience,” Southgate emphasized.
“Many in this squad will still be around in two, four, six, or even eight years’ time. We’ve consistently returned to the decisive matches, but we’ve faltered at the final hurdle.”
Looking ahead, England’s focus will shift to qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, slated to be hosted across the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
King Charles sent a letter to Gareth Southgate and the team after their defeat, urging them to “maintain your dignity.” Charles expressed, “Please understand that reaching the final of the European Championship is a significant accomplishment in its own right, and one that fills the nation with pride, a pride that will persist as we continue to cheer for the Three Lions today and in the future victories that undoubtedly await.”
Prince William, who attended the match with his son Prince George, commented, “This time, it simply wasn’t our moment. Nevertheless, we remain immensely proud of you. Onward.”
Euro 2024 concluded in Berlin’s Olympiastadion where Spain emerged victorious over England in a hard-fought final. Despite a goalless first half, Nico Williams’ early strike put Spain ahead, only to be answered by Cole Palmer’s remarkable equalizer for England. Yet, Spain’s late goal shattered England’s hopes, extending their major tournament drought. Despite the disappointment, Harry Kane’s Golden Boot achievement and Gareth Southgate’s optimism about England’s young talents signal hope for the future as they aim to regroup and prepare for the upcoming 2026 World Cup.