A stunning goal from 16-year-old prodigy Lamine Yamal spurred Spain to a 2-1 comeback victory over France, securing their place in the Euro 2024 final. See Thập Cẩm TV our player ratings and join the discussion…
Lamine Yamal delivered a stellar performance reminiscent of Pele himself, propelling Spain into the Euro 2024 final, while Kylian Mbappe departed with minimal impact.
Yamal’s stunning goal was pivotal in Spain’s 2-1 victory over France in the Munich semi-final. Dani Olmo added Spain’s second after Randal Kolo Muani had initially put France ahead. Spain’s next challenge will be against either England or Netherlands in Sunday’s final.
Here, Sky Sports has assessed the performances of all players involved, and now it’s your turn to rate them as well.
Spain team
Unai Simon – 7
He faced few challenges from the French attack, who managed just three shots on target. While his distribution remains unconvincing, it’s difficult to find fault with his overall performance.
Marc Cucurella – 7
Every time he touched the ball, the German fans in the crowd booed him, still upset over the controversial handball incident from the quarter-finals. Despite the hostile reception, he maintained his composure and continued to display the exceptional form he has shown throughout the tournament. He effectively neutralized Ousmane Dembele, keeping the talented forward quiet throughout the match.
Ayermic Laporte – 7
He bore some responsibility for France’s goal by Kolo Muani, but his veteran presence proved crucial in Spain’s ability to secure the win and see out the game.
Nacho – 6
He was holding his own in the game until he was shifted to full-back, where France substitute Bradley Barcola repeatedly exploited his vulnerabilities. Fortunately, one of Barcola’s successful dribbles did not result in a goal against Spain.
Jesus Navas – 6
He must have had uneasy nights, knowing he would have to rely on his 38-year-old legs to handle Mbappe. He received a yellow card just 14 minutes into the game, forcing him to play cautiously thereafter. He was substituted early in the second half due to injury, with Vivian coming on in his place.
Rodri – 8
Exudes elegance. The linchpin in a squad brimming with dazzling abilities. He is the glue that binds this formidable Spanish team together, now just one match away from achieving glory.
Fabian Ruiz – 8
His partnership with Rodri is unmatched at the tournament. His clever runs into the box pose a persistent threat, although he missed a golden opportunity with a close-range header early in the game.
Dani Olmo – 8
He’s surged into contention for the Golden Boot, netting his third goal of the tournament despite starting just two games. His latest goal was a masterpiece, outfoxing Aurelien Tchouameni with a swift move to create the scoring opportunity.
Nico Williams – 7
He didn’t exhibit the same devastating form we’ve seen earlier in the tournament, largely due to the solid defensive performance of Jules Kounde from the opposition.
Lamine Yamal – 9
What were you up to at 16? Probably not scoring jaw-dropping goals and becoming a global sensation, right?
Yamal is poised to become a major force in world football, earning the title of the youngest player ever to score in either a European Championship or World Cup. The previous record holder? None other than Pele. There are unmistakable echoes of the Brazilian legend in the rise of this remarkably talented youngster. He seems to defy all expectations.
Alvaro Morata – 7
He plays a supporting role in this dynamic and thrilling Spanish team, contributing wherever necessary. He won four fouls and committed three, revealing a grittier side amid the team’s stylish play. Every squad benefits from such versatility.
France team
Mike Maignan – 7
In another display of assured performance, there was little he could do about either goal. Shortly after the break, he sprinted out of his goal and executed a perfectly timed tackle on Nico Williams, showcasing why he’s considered one of the best in the business.
Jules Kounde – 7
He has seamlessly transitioned into the right-back position for this squad. Demonstrating a proactive approach in supporting the attack, he has consistently delivered superior quality compared to his fellow attackers. His handling of Williams’ speed and strength was commendable. His performance deserved better than ending up on the losing team.
William Saliba – 6
Appeared hurried and unsettled for the first occasion in this tournament, confronted by the rapidity and skillful play of Spain’s front quartet.
Dayot Upamecano – 5
Similar to Saliba, he never seemed at ease and consistently appeared to be the weakest link.
Theo Hernandez – 6
Was uncertain about how to deal with Yamal, torn between tightening up or forcing him onto his right foot. Seized an opportunity early in the second half to challenge Simon, but unfortunately skewed a shot wide of the mark.
Adrien Rabiot – 5
Subpar. His lack of mobility was evident in a clumsy display, allowing Spain to make significant advances in midfield.
N’Golo Kante – 6
Once more assigned to a more demanding position, he approached it with his customary energy and aggression, yet there was a noticeable lack of finesse when it came to the decisive plays.
Aurelien Tchouameni – 6
Had a promising opportunity with a headed chance towards Simon in the second half but struggled to assert control over the ball, hindering France’s ability to advance up the field and maintain consistent pressure.
Kylian Mbappe – 6
No longer concealed behind a mask, he found himself tightly marked throughout the match. Despite providing a delicate assist for Kolo Muani’s opening goal, he never quite reached his peak form. His missed opportunity, blazing a crucial chance over the bar with just five minutes remaining Bong da lu, will likely haunt him. Euro 2024 is a tournament he’ll likely want to put behind him swiftly.
Ousmane Dembele – 5
He surrendered possession more frequently than any other player (21 times) and failed to deliver with his final passes despite initial promise.
Kolo Muani – 7
Scoring from his only opportunity, a lone striker couldn’t be expected to do much more. It was unfortunate that he was substituted as France sought to equalize.