Euro 2024: Fabian Ruiz stars as Spain clinch fourth European title
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It was another cliché final of fine margins which played out at the Olympiastadion, Berlin, as Spain ran out 2-1 winners over England thanks to late goal from Mikel Oyarzabal. La Roja, which featured a consistent Fabian Ruiz (Paris Saint-Germain) in midfield, opened the scoring just after the break with a low finish from Nico Williams.
The momentum swung firmly in the favour of the Iberian side, with Lamine Yamal being denied twice by a resolute Jordan Pickford with a strong fingertip save. Alvaro Morata and Williams once again had chances to further put Spain in front.
Resilience has characterised England's run in Euro 2024, and the Three Lions would make their fightback with the introduction of Cole Palmer, whose driven effort from outside the box would nestle delightfully just past Unai Simon's left side. Yamal almost reacted instantly, but Pickford once again proved decisive between the sticks with yet another solid parried save.
Yet - the England man would be helpless minutes later - as Marc Cucurella's low ball into Mikel Oryazabal would be easily turned into the back of the net, effectively dashing England hopes, but sending Spain fans into raptures as La Roja looked like they were heading for record-breaking glory.
Injury time would see England go ever-so-close, with Simon parrying away Declan Rice's header, and Marc Guéhi's follow-up being cleared off the line by Dani Olmo. The final whistle would blow, and Fabian Ruiz & co could celebrate a record-breaking Spain win at the Olympiastadion, whilst England's wait for silverware continues…
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