Lamine Yamal has etched his name into football history by becoming the youngest player to score at the European Championship. The 16-year-old sensation netted a spectacular goal for Spain in their EURO 2024 semifinal 2-1 victory over France on Wednesday.
A Birthday to Remember
Yamal, who turns 17 on Saturday, is set to celebrate his birthday just a day before the final in Berlin, where Spain will face either England or the Netherlands.
“I only ask to win, win, and win,” expressed Yamal, who was named the player of the match. “I will celebrate my birthday in Germany with my team.”
A Stunning Strike
In the 21st minute, Yamal showcased his remarkable talent by curling the ball past French goalkeeper Mike Maignan from about 25 yards, sending it into the top left corner. This goal marked his first at a European Championship, despite having assisted in Spain’s victories over Croatia, Georgia, and Germany.
“I don’t know if it’s the best goal of the tournament, but it’s the most special for me because it’s my first goal with the team at a European Championship,” Yamal shared.
Breaking Records
At 16 years and 362 days old, Yamal has surpassed Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen, who previously held the record as the youngest scorer at a European Championship at 18 years and 141 days, achieved against France at Euro 2004.
“We are very happy to reach the final. Now comes the most important part — winning the title,” Yamal stated. “We were in a tough spot after conceding early, but I just took the ball and aimed for the goal.”
Yamal’s contributions to Euro 2024 have been nothing short of historic. He became the youngest player to feature in a men’s Euro when he started in Spain’s opening 3-0 victory over Croatia. Additionally, he holds records as the youngest player to debut and score in the Spanish league at 15, the youngest to start in the Champions League, and the youngest to score for Spain.
Praise from the Coach
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised Yamal’s exceptional talent, stating, “We saw a touch of genius by a great player who we all know and must nurture. I can only advise him to continue with the same humility and work ethic.”
“He will keep improving with the same attitude, professionalism, and maturity that he shows during games. Despite his young age, he exhibits a level of experience beyond his years. Above all, he should enjoy playing for us. Hopefully, we can enjoy his talents for many years.”
Turning the Game Around
Yamal’s goal equalized the match after Randal Kolo Muani’s opener for France, which was set up by Kylian Mbappé. Spain turned the game around four minutes later when Dani Olmo’s goal-bound shot was deflected into the net by French defender Jules Koundé. Initially ruled an own-goal by UEFA, it was later awarded to Olmo.
“They scored first, but we stuck to our plan. Lamine scored a great goal,” Olmo said.
Yamal nearly added another spectacular goal nine minutes from time with a powerful shot that narrowly missed the crossbar.
A Dream Realized
Reflecting on the match, Yamal said, “With only half an hour to go, I was thinking about the final. When the referee blew the final whistle, I was incredibly happy because I remember watching the last European Championship with my friends in a shopping mall. This is a dream come true to reach the final with the national team.”
As Lamine Yamal continues to make headlines and break records, his journey is just beginning. The football world eagerly anticipates what this young prodigy will achieve next.
