High octane football at the Olympiastadion, as Spain and England brought different approaches to the final of Euro 2024
The Three Lions were much cagey in the opening 10 minutes of the game, as they conceded possession to Luis de la Fuente’s side.
Spain knocked the ball around with ease looking to catch England lapping in the opening stages of the half.
The encounter began to open up at nearly quarter of the hour mark, with La Roja creating two great chances in quick succession.
Spain On The Front Foot Early On Against England
Kyle Walker went flying to try and halt a long pass from Fabian Ruiz, but he missed it entirely, leaving Spain attacker Nico Williams with enough space to drive the ball into the box.
However, Stones was on hand to slide in to stop the winger from smashing an effort at goal.
Nico Williams in the 13th minute also delivered a deep corner this time and Rodri rose highest to head it back into the crowd in the box.
Le Normand had his back on goal as he tried to direct his attempt on target, but the ball went wide.
England grew in confidence as the game wore on, with the team beginning to thread great passes in dangerous areas.
Gareth Southgate’s side displayed impressive solidity in the opening 30 minutes of the auspicious encounter. English defenders, Marc Guehi, John Stones, Kyle Walker, and Luke Shaw did an amazing job to curtail Spain.
In the 25th minute, Harry Kane was booked for a foul on Fabian Ruiz, as he caught the Spanish star on a follow-through with his studs during an English attack.
The notable youngsters in Kobbie Mainoo and Lamine Yamal also showed flashes of brilliance, as they assisted their respective teams to remain in the game.
Dani Olmo was also booked for a late challenge on Declan Rice, with the RB Leipzig star catching the midfielder on the top of his thigh.
He could have possibly gotten a sending off if referee Francois Letexier hadn’t opted to give him a softer punishment.
England also showed brilliance off the ball, with a military-like positioning all-through a combative opening 45.
England Big Chances Late On In The First Half Of Their Euro 2024 Clash Against Spain
Deep into the half, England also had two big chances, with Rodri stopping a seemingly goal-bound shot by Harry Kane, while the Three Lions won a free-kick and a delightful cross was sent into the box by Declan Rice.
Le Normand flicked on the ball, but Phil Foden was waiting in a great position and at full-stretch he directed a shot at goal which was comfortably saved by Unai Simon.
Both teams still struggling to get a hold of the game and certainly all to play for in the second period.
It will be fascinating to see if they will keep to the manner at which they approached the opening half of the Euro 2024 final.
However, it’s a final and clinicality alongside bravery is needed, with the trophy being the sole aim for both sides.
Marc Cucurella Booed
Marc Cucurella was also booed by German fans at the stadium in the first half due to the penalty which went against Germany in their quarter-final clash against Spain after the midfielder seemed to have handled the ball in the box.
