Spain and France clashed in the highly anticipated UEFA Euro 2024 semi-final at Allianz Arena in Munich. With a spot in the final at stake, both teams faced significant challenges. Spain was without Dani Carvajal and Le Monde due to suspension, and Pedri was sidelined with an injury. Jesús Navas, Nacho, and Dani Olmo were brought in to fill the gaps, with Olmo earning a start after his impressive quarter-final performance.

Early Drama

The match started with a burst of energy and excitement. France struck first in the 9th minute with Kolo Muani scoring an early goal, setting the tone for an exciting semi-final. However, Spain quickly responded. In the 21st minute, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal showcased his talent with a stunning left-footed goal from outside the box, bringing Spain level. Just four minutes later, Spain took the lead after a spell of sustained pressure forced French defender Jules Koundé to score an own goal.

Halftime Advantage

Spain went into halftime with a 2-1 lead, reflecting their high-intensity play and effective pressing. The Spanish side maintained control and composure, showing resilience and discipline.

Second Half Tactics

The second half continued in the same vein, with Spain maintaining high pressure and tempo. An injury to Jesús Navas in the 57th minute led to a defensive reshuffle, with Vivian coming on and Nacho moving to right-back. France made a triple substitution in the 62nd minute, introducing Camavinga, Griezmann, and Barcola in place of Rabiot, Kanté, and Kolo Muani.

France looked more dangerous after the changes and Real Madrid fans will have noted the link-up play between Camavinga and Mbappé!

Luis de la Fuente made a double substitution in the 76th minute for Spain, bringing on Real Sociedad duo Mikel Merino and Mikel Oyarzabal for Dani Olmo and Alvaro Morata. Olmo had been a standout performer throughout the tournament, and Morata delivered a captain’s performance, contributing significantly in both attack and defense

Final Moments

In the 79th minute, France brought on veteran Olivier Giroud for Ousmane Dembélé. Spain faced a scare in the final five minutes when Laporte went down injured and no more centre backs and the bench but he battled on. Mbappé had a golden opportunity to equalize, but his shot went over the bar, much to the dismay of French fans. A late tackle by Camavinga on Cucurella saw the Spanish bench rise in protest, adding to the tense atmosphere.

In the dying moments of the game, five minutes of added time saw Spain make their final moves. Exhausted heroes Yamal and Nico Williams made way for fresh legs in Ferran Torres and Martin Zubimendi. With nerves on edge, Spain clung to their narrow lead, clinching a 2-1 victory and booking their place in the final. The win not only showcased Spain’s tactical skills but also highlighted the united team spirit where the absence of traditional ‘superstars’ was compensated by a unified effort and flashes of brilliance from rising stars.

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