Thursday, December 12, 2024
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Spain ridge past France to reach Euro 2024 final

In a thrilling semi-final clash at Euro 2024, Spain orchestrated a dramatic comeback to defeat France 2-1 on Tuesday evening, booking their spot in the tournament’s final. The match, held at a packed Stade de France, witnessed an electrifying first half with two goals from Spain within five minutes turning the tide in their favor.

The breakthrough moment arrived in the 21st minute when 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal etched his name into history books with a stunning strike, becoming the youngest scorer ever in a Euro or World Cup tournament. His left-footed curler from 25 meters out left French goalkeeper Hugo Lloris grasping at thin air as it nestled into the net, evoking memories of past greats like Pele.

Just moments later, Dani Olmo doubled Spain’s lead in the 25th minute, firing a shot that deflected off French defender Jules Kounde and found its way into the goal. This swift one-two punch stunned the French side, who had taken an early lead through Randal Kolo Muani’s header off a Kylian Mbappe cross.

Despite a spirited second-half effort from France, where Mbappe and Theo Hernandez threatened Spain’s defense, they couldn’t breach the resilient Spanish backline for an equalizer. Spain’s victory means they maintain a flawless record throughout the tournament, having won every match en route to the final.

With their eyes set on a record-breaking fourth European title, Spain will now await the winner of Wednesday’s clash between England and the Netherlands. The final, scheduled for Sunday in Berlin, promises to be a fitting conclusion to what has been a thrilling Euro 2024 campaign filled with unforgettable moments and stellar performances.

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