The Three Lions huffed and puffed during the first half, doing well to limit the threat of the pre-match favorites. England appeared to have gained a significant psychological advantage at the start of the second half.
Spain’s midfield maestro Rodri failed to emerge and was replaced by Martin Zubimendi. That boost was quickly forgotten, however, as Spain took the lead just 70 seconds after the restart thanks to a Nico Williams goal assisted by 17-year-old Lamine Yamal’s drive and thrust. On the hour mark, Gareth Southgate rolled the dice, removing captain Harry Kane and replacing him with semi-final hero Ollie Watkins.
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Lamine Yamal and co combined effort to gain another trophy
The change energized England, and they drew level with 17 minutes remaining on a fine-flowing move involving Bukayo Saka and Jude Bellingham, which resulted in a fine low shot from another substitute, Cole Palmer.
An increasingly even contest appeared to be heading for extra time, but Spain’s own super-sub Mikel Oyarzabal emerged victorious, converting Marc Cucurella’s fine low cross. Olmo, a Spain midfielder, would have won the Golden Boot award outright in previous Euros because he had more assists (two) than his opponents, but the RB Leipzig player must share the award this year with five other players.
