Lamine Yamal, aged just 16, made history as the youngest ever goalscorer in the tournament, propelling Spain to a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over France in Munich on Tuesday, securing their place in the Euro 2024 final.
France took an early lead through Randal Kolo Muani’s header from a Kylian Mbappe cross in the ninth minute. However, Spain swiftly turned the tide with two quick goals within four minutes. Yamal, who turns 17 just before the final against either the Netherlands or England, equalized with a stunning long-range strike into the top corner, followed by Dani Olmo’s deflected shot to take the lead in the 25th minute.
“I didn’t hesitate, just took the shot,” Yamal said of his impressive goal. “I’m enjoying every moment and proud to be in the final.”
Spain’s victory marked their sixth win in this Euros, making them the first team to achieve this milestone and positioning them one step away from a record-breaking fourth title. They now await their first major tournament final since their dominant 4-0 win over Italy in Euro 2012.
Masterful in midfield control, Spain effectively managed the game after taking the lead, maintaining possession and frustrating France’s attempts to equalize.
“They’re a very strong team, they showed that tonight,” remarked France coach Didier Deschamps. “They controlled the game better than us, even though we fought until the end.”
Despite boasting formidable attacking talent, including Mbappe, France struggled to convert their chances, with their only goal in the tournament from open play coming early in the match.
France’s early lead came from Kolo Muani’s header off a Yamal-like cross from Mbappe, exploiting defensive lapses from Spain’s younger players like Aymeric Laporte and Marc Cucurella.
Yamal’s goal, just 12 minutes after France’s opener, injected new life into Spain’s play, paving the way for Olmo’s decisive strike shortly after.
In the closing stages, France’s best opportunity to force extra time fell to Mbappe, who disappointingly fired over the bar with only the goalkeeper to beat.
