The Spanish national football team secured its place in the Euro 2024 final by defeating France 2-1 in the semifinal match held at the Allianz Arena in Munich on July 9, 2024. Spain will face either England or the Netherlands in the final on July 14 in Berlin, marking their first appearance in a major tournament final since 2012.
Spain’s Path to the Euro 2024 Final
Spain’s victory over France solidified their status as the most consistent team in the tournament. According to UEFA match reports, France took an early lead through a Randal Kolo Muani header in the 9th minute. Spain responded quickly, with 16-year-old Lamine Yamal equalizing in the 21st minute with a long-range strike. Dani Olmo added the decisive second goal just four minutes later, which was officially credited as an own goal by Jules Koundé after a deflection.
This result continues Spain’s perfect run in the tournament, having won all six of their matches leading up to the final. Their tactical approach, characterized by high-pressing and clinical finishing, proved too much for a French side that had struggled for offensive rhythm throughout the competition.
France’s Exit from the Tournament
For France, the semifinal loss marks the end of a campaign defined by defensive solidity but limited attacking output. Despite reaching the final four, Didier Deschamps’ squad scored only four goals in their six matches—two of which were own goals by opponents, and one was a penalty kick converted by Kylian Mbappé.
According to The Guardian, the French team failed to capitalize on early momentum. While the team reached the semifinals of a major tournament for the fourth time in their last five appearances, the inability to score from open play during the knockout stages became their defining struggle.
Statistical Comparison of the Semifinal
The match statistics highlight the tactical differences between the two sides during the 90 minutes of play:
| Statistic | Spain | France |
|---|---|---|
| Possession | 59% | 41% |
| Total Shots | 9 | 7 |
| Shots on Target | 2 | 3 |
| Corners | 4 | 6 |
Data sourced from UEFA Official Match Statistics.
Looking Ahead to the Berlin Final
Spain now advances to the final at the Olympiastadion in Berlin on Sunday, July 14. This date holds symbolic significance, as it coincides with Bastille Day in France, though the French squad will not be participating.
Spain is seeking a record-breaking fourth European Championship title. They currently share the record of three titles with Germany. Their opponent will be determined by the outcome of the second semifinal between England and the Netherlands. Regardless of the opponent, Spain enters the final as the only team to have maintained a 100% win rate since the start of the tournament.
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