Spain Dominates Again, Leaving England in the Dust: A Tale of Triumph and Heartbreak

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BERLIN (AP) — Spain has solidified its status as the undisputed ruler of European soccer, clinching an unprecedented fourth European Championship title. In stark contrast, England’s long-standing saga of near-misses continues, leaving fans in despair.
In a tournament where Spain showcased dominance from start to finish, the final match saw Spain edge past England with a 2-1 victory on Sunday. The hero of the night was an unexpected one—Mikel Oyarzabal, who secured the win in the 86th minute.
Oyarzabal, a substitute for captain Alvaro Morata, capitalized on a cross from Marc Cucurella, slotting the ball home just as extra time loomed. The scene at Berlin’s Olympiastadion was electric, with Spain’s supporters erupting in celebration.
For England, the birthplace of soccer, the wait for a major title since the 1966 World Cup continues. As Spain celebrated, England’s players were left to watch in agony as Morata hoisted the silver trophy amid a dazzling display of confetti and fireworks.
This victory adds 2024 to Spain’s European Championship titles from 1964, 2008, and 2012. “We are thrilled to be champions of Europe,” said Nico Williams, whose opening goal was later equalized by England’s substitute, Cole Palmer. “We aim to carry this momentum into the 2026 World Cup.”
Lamine Yamal, a prodigy who turned 17 during the tournament, set up Williams’ goal with a brilliant assist. Yamal, whose diverse heritage includes roots in Equatorial Guinea and Morocco, and Williams, whose parents hail from Ghana, symbolize Spain’s evolving and multicultural team.
Yamal and Williams’ stories of overcoming adversity resonate deeply. Williams, named player of the match for his exceptional performance, reflected on his parents’ hardships, including a perilous journey across the Sahara desert. “We are making history,” he proclaimed, choosing to play for Spain despite his brother Inaki representing Ghana.
Spain’s resurgence in senior soccer is undeniable, having won the Women’s World Cup and the men’s UEFA Nations League in 2023. The Spanish men’s teams have now triumphed in 23 consecutive major finals since 2001, a testament to their dominance.
“I said before the tournament, nobody can hang with us,” Williams boasted. Spain’s flawless record in this European Championship, winning all seven games and setting a new goal-scoring record, underscores their supremacy.
The post-match celebrations were euphoric. Defender Dani Carvajal was mobbed by teammates, and coach Luis de la Fuente was hoisted into the air. Yamal, reveling in his birthday, led the team in jubilant celebrations with fans.
Meanwhile, in Madrid, fans rejoiced, chanting “champions” as Spain’s triumph followed Carlos Alcaraz’s Wimbledon victory. For England, however, the agony persists. The men’s team has now lost consecutive Euro finals, having been defeated by Italy in 2021.
“This time it just wasn’t meant to be,” Prince William lamented, expressing pride in the team despite their heartbreak. England’s resilience throughout the tournament fell short in the final, with Spain’s Dani Olmo clearing a crucial shot in the 89th minute.
England captain Harry Kane summed up the national mood: “It’s extremely painful. It’s going to hurt for a long, long time.” Coach Gareth Southgate, reflecting on his eight-year tenure, acknowledged the team’s bright future but recognized the present pain. His contract, set to expire in December, leaves questions about his future.
In the end, Spain stands tall as the king of European soccer, while England must once again grapple with the bitter taste of defeat.