A Goal for the Ages
Every so often, a goal is scored at a European Championship that stands the test of time. Marco van Basten’s angled volley at Euro 1988 is one. Paul Gascoigne’s individual run and finish at Euro 1996 is another, as is Karel Poborsky’s chip at the same tournament. Lamine Yamal’s history-making goal for Spain against France in the semi-finals of Euro 2024 can be added to this prestigious list. With Spain trailing 1-0, Yamal curled a brilliant strike from outside the box into the top corner, sending him into the history books. At 16 years and 362 days, he became the youngest man to score in the tournament’s history, leaving those watching in awe.
A Touch of Genius
“A superstar is born,” former England striker Gary Lineker said on BBC One. “It was the moment of the match, possibly the moment of the tournament.” Ex-England striker Alan Shearer added, “We’ve been talking about him all tournament and saying what a ridiculously young age it is. To do that, it’s just outrageous.” The goal, which had fans inside the Allianz Arena and around the world gasping as it was replayed in slow motion, was all the more impressive because of its timing. This was at 1-0 down in the semi-final of a major tournament—a high-pressure moment that Yamal handled effortlessly.
The Making of a Star
Spain’s boss, Luis de la Fuente, praised Yamal’s performance, saying, “We saw a touch of genius. We all need to take care of him. I would like him to work with the same humility and keep his feet on the ground, to keep learning.” Yamal’s impact is not limited to the international stage; he has already rewritten the record books in his breakthrough season at Barcelona, becoming the Spanish side’s youngest starter and goalscorer, as well as the youngest scorer in La Liga.
Looking Ahead
Yamal turns 17 on July 13—one day before the final of Euro 2024, where Spain will face either England or the Netherlands. When asked about his birthday plans, the teenager said all he wanted was to “win, win, win, and win.” Whoever Spain face in the final, they would be advised not to provide the youngster with additional motivation, as France perhaps did. Yamal’s confident post-match comments and his focus on the final underscore his determination to continue making history.
