The Euro 2024 final arrives this Sunday, a tantalizing clash between Spain and England at Berlin's Olympiastadion. Spain returns to the final after an eight-year absence, seeking to recapture the glory of their back-to-back victories in 2008 and 2012. That 2008 triumph marked the start of a dominant period, and this young Spanish squad echoes some of that magic. Yamine Lamal, in particular, is a contender not only for Young Player of the Tournament but also for the top individual honor. England, meanwhile, is back in the final after a heartbreaking home defeat three years ago. Gareth Southgate's team might not always play the most aesthetically pleasing football, but they possess match-winners who have delivered when it mattered most. This final promises a fascinating encounter: a well-oiled machine against a team capable of individual brilliance. It's also a final chance for fantasy football managers to make last-minute decisions in this thrilling tournament.
Road to the finals
The paths to the final couldn't have been more contrasting. Spain dominated despite facing a tough group that also contained Croatia and Italy. They topped the group with a perfect record, even overcoming a 1-goal deficit in their Round of 16 clash against Georgia (4-1). A dramatic extra-time winner from substitute Mikel Merino (119') secured a 2-1 victory over host Germany in the quarterfinals, and they then defeated pre-tournament favorites France 2-1 in the semis, with Yamine Lamal again rising to the occasion.
England, on the other hand, found themselves grinding out results. They secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Serbia in their group opener. They only scraped past Slovakia thanks to a 95th-minute overhead kick from Jude Bellingham and a winner from Harry Kane in extra time. A late goal by Bukayo Saka forced their quarterfinal against Switzerland into penalties, which they won comfortably. Netherlands took the lead in the semifinals, but a Harry Kane penalty and a late strike from Ollie Watkins booked their place in a second successive final.
Injury News
While there were initial concerns about captain Álvaro Morata's fitness, recent news suggests he'll be available for the final, further bolstering Spain's attack. Both teams have no new injury concerns and Spain has received a boost with Dani Carvajal and Robin Le Normand returning from injury and available for selection.
Players to watch out for the finals
The final promises a fierce battle not just on the pitch, but also in fantasy leagues worldwide. Managers will be locked in a strategic war, with some banking on the experience of Harry Kane and others tempted by the undeniable talent of Lamine Yamal. But beyond the favorites, few other players could have a huge say in the outcome of the final. Let's delve into four potential difference-makers, two for each side:
England
Kobbie Mainoo's rise in the last eight months has been meteoric. From making his first Manchester United start in November to earning his first national call-up in March, he's now a mainstay in England's midfield. In the first half of the Netherlands semifinal, he dictated play, showcasing his abilities that will be crucial for England to win the midfield battle against Spain's experienced maestro, Rodri.
Unlike Mainoo, Cole Palmer might not crack England's starting lineup, but his impact as a substitute can't be ignored. He proved his worth in the semifinals with a decisive assist for Watkins' winning goal. Palmer's not just a creative force - his 22 goals for Chelsea last season showcase his scoring prowess. He's also a reliable penalty taker, having converted a perfect record of 9 for Chelsea and England's crucial penalty against Switzerland. Southgate has a valuable weapon in Palmer, ready to change the game's course from the bench.
Spain
Álvaro Morata remains Spain's primary goal threat, having notched a goal and an assist in the Euros so far. His 15-goal La Liga season for Atlético Madrid further bolsters his credentials. Morata's hunger for glory nearly delivered Champions League success with Juventus in 2015, and he'll be aiming to go all the way with Spain this time around.
Mikel Oyarzabal, Real Sociedad's captain, has been a key figure for Spain despite not starting a single Euro 2024 match. He's been a constant presence on the bench, featuring in all six games and contributing a crucial assist. With the final predicted to be a tight affair, substitutes could play a decisive role. Oyarzabal's experience and impact off the bench make him a strong candidate to be Spain's game-changer.
What Next?
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