Euro24 : Yamal dazzles as Spain knocks out France in semis

 

Youngster Lamine Yamal is making waves in football at just 16 years old. Often hailed as a great talent, Yamal has proven he's more than just a promising player. His performance in the Euro Cup semi-finals against France was remarkable. He scored a goal, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Euro history, and consistently created scoring opportunities. Despite Spain falling behind, Yamal's efforts helped them reach the Euro Cup final, knocking Kylian Mbappe's France out of the competition. Mbappe, however, played impressively and can hold his head high for his performance against Spain.

The game was dynamic, with both teams attacking relentlessly. Spain initially pressed hard, but France countered by exploiting gaps in Spain's defence. Mbappe, recovering from an injury, initially struggled but found his form after removing his face guard, showcasing his signature speed and pressure on the Spanish defence.

Yamal had the first major scoring chance for Spain, getting the ball just outside the box within the first five minutes. He floated a cross to Fabian Ruiz, who couldn't convert the header. France capitalized on this missed opportunity when Mbappe drove into the box and set up Kolo Muani, who coolly headed the ball into the net, marking France's first open-play goal in the Euro.

Spain responded aggressively after conceding, with Yamal and Nico Williams standing out. Despite Alvaro Morata's struggles in the box, Yamal dazzled with a solo effort in the 21st minute, scoring with a powerful shot that the French goalkeeper couldn't stop. This equalizer showcased Yamal's brilliance.

Just four minutes later, Spain struck again. Dani Olmo received a pass from Jesus Navas, and although France's Jules Koundé tried to deflect it, the ball ended up in the net, initially considered an own goal but later credited to Olmo. Spain turned the game around to lead 2-1.

The first half was intensely competitive, with both teams using the wings effectively. Mbappe and Ousmane  Dembele were France's main threats, but Spain held their lead into halftime.

In the second half, Spain continued their aggressive play, aware that a defensive approach would be risky against France. Coach Luis de la Fuente made strategic substitutions, bringing in Nacho and Laporte to strengthen the defence. France's coach Didier Deschamps also made changes, introducing Barkola, Antoine Griezmann, and Kamavinga, which made France's attack more potent.

Despite these changes, Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon made crucial saves, keeping France at bay. The game grew more physical, with both teams committing fouls. In the 85th minute, Mbappe had a golden chance to equalize but shot over the bar.

France couldn't find the equalizer despite several attempts, and Spain held on to secure their spot in the final. Mbappe left the field disappointed, while Spain celebrated their hard-fought & fully deserved victory.