By Yamal engraved his name in history by becoming the youngest player to score at a European Championship or World Cup, surpassing the record previously held by Brazilian legend Pelé. His remarkable goal came in a thrilling first half when he shifted the ball onto his left foot and curled a stunning shot off the post from 25 yards out.
France initially took the lead with Randal Kolo Muani heading in a superb cross from Kylian Mbappe, who played without a mask after recovering from a broken nose sustained earlier in the tournament.
However, Yamal’s brilliant strike shifted the momentum in Spain’s favour. The comeback was completed shortly thereafter when Dani Olmo expertly controlled the ball in the France box and fired a low shot into the net off defender Jules Kounde.
France struggled to respond in the second half, with Mbappe missing their best opportunity by firing over the bar in the closing stages.
Inspired by the extraordinary Yamal, Spain, under the guidance of Luis de la Fuente, will now face the winner of the England vs. Netherlands semi-final in Sunday’s final. Spain has become the first team to win six consecutive games in European Championship history.
“Lamine is doing things that suggest he might become a great in the sport,” said De la Fuente. “But we need to remain prudent. We must help him stay grounded and develop him properly, with calm and tranquillity. In Ancient Rome, when they spoke of Caesar, they would say: ‘Remember, he’s mortal!'”
Reflecting on reaching the final, Yamal added, “Getting to the final is really special. My goal is to help my team, and that’s what I aimed to do today. I was incredibly happy after the final whistle. It’s a dream come true. When you reach the final, you have to play against the very best. We’ll see who we face.”
