Spain and England remain in the hunt for the most prestigious trophy in European international football. These two teams will clash on Sunday, July 14, in the final of the men’s 2024 European Championships. Spain aims to win their fourth Euros title, while England seeks their first.
England’s History
Three years ago, Gareth Southgate’s England faced a similar situation but lost narrowly on penalties to Italy. As we approach the conclusion of this year’s Euro 2024 tournament, we will look at their head-to-head records, paths to the final, and key players to watch.
Spain vs England: Head-to-Head Record
Spain 🆚 England
AdvertisementBerlin. Sunday.#EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/f1NqmQfOpO
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 10, 2024
Sunday marks the first meeting between Spain and England since 2018 and their 27th encounter since 1929. Despite Spain’s recent success, England has won 14 of their 27 clashes, while Spain has 10 victories, and there have been 3 draws. Since 2000, Spain has won 5 of their 9 meetings, but historically, England dominated, winning seven consecutive matches between 1960 and 1980. Notably, Spain has never beaten England in the European Championships, with England winning on penalties in their 1996 encounter.
Spain’s Road to the Final
Spain has arguably been the most entertaining team in the competition. They started with a 3-0 victory over Croatia, followed by narrow 1-0 wins against Italy and Albania, topping their group. In the knockout rounds, Spain defeated Georgia 4-1, Germany 2-1 in extra time, and France 2-1, with standout performances from Dani Olmo and 16-year-old Lamine Yamal. Next, they face England, a team they have never beaten in previous Euros.
England’s Road to the Final
England’s journey to the final was challenging. They topped Group C with a 1-0 win over Serbia, a 1-1 draw with Denmark, and a 0-0 draw with Slovenia. In the knockout rounds, they overcame Slovakia 2-1 in extra time, defeated Switzerland on penalties, and secured a dramatic 2-1 victory over the Netherlands, thanks to a last-minute goal from Ollie Watkins. England enters the final with more minutes played and one less recovery day than Spain, which could impact their performance.
Players to Watch: Difference-Making Teenagers
Lamine Yamal (Spain)
Lamine Yamal, 16, has been instrumental in Spain’s success. He became the youngest player to score at a men’s Euros and has proven to be a game-changer on the right wing. His creativity and ability to disrupt defenses have been key to Spain’s run to the final.
Kobbie Mainoo (England)
England’s 19-year-old midfielder, Kobbie Mainoo, has had an impressive year. After a standout season with Manchester United, he earned a call-up to the senior England side and played a crucial role in their journey to the final. His connection with Phil Foden and disciplined performances have been vital for England.
Euro 2024 Final: Schedule and How to Watch
Spain and England will compete in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday, July 14, with kickoff at 20:00 BST/21:00 CEST at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, Germany.
