EURO 2024 Roundup, Matchday 20
Here is a recap of the games that occurred on Matchday 20 of EURO 2024, focusing on the results and notable player performances.
Spain 2-1 France
Spain scored two first half goals to defeat France 2-1 and advance to the final of the Euro 2024. They remain the only team in the tournament to have won all of their matches. The French team had not scored any goals from open play in 480 minutes during the Euros, but this time they managed to do so in just nine minutes. Randal Kolo Muani was successful in converting a cross from Kylian Mbappé to give France an early lead.
Lamine Yamal evaded Adrien Rabiot and sent a bold shot curling in off the far post to equalize for Spain. Just four minutes later, Dani Olmo displayed his own skill to find space in the box and score a goal that deflected off Jules Koundé. While France showed some promise, Spain remained the more threatening team before halftime.
France faced immediate pressure after the break, with Mike Maignan coming out of his box to stop Nico Williams. They also had their own attacking opportunities, with Mbappé’s shot from a difficult angle saved. Despite making attacking changes, frustrations continued for France as Théo Hernández and Ousmane Dembélé failed to take advantage of Spanish mistakes in their own box.
Despite some chances from France, Spain confidently secured the win to advance to Berlin. Their recent and past successes, including winning their last eight games and three out of four Euros finals, have boosted their morale. They handed France their first loss in 13 competitive matches since the World Cup final.
