Throughout Euro 2024, Spain has been the standout team, showcasing their dominance in every match. Tonight, they face a formidable challenge against France in the semifinals. Spain, the 2010 World Cup champions, are widely regarded as the favorites in this tournament. With three Euro titles under their belt (2008, 2012, and 1964), they share the record for the most wins with Germany, whom they defeated in the quarterfinals despite Germany’s home advantage.
Spain will face France in the Euro 2024 semifinals, aiming for a spot in the final (AP) Spain’s journey to the semifinals has been impressive. They began by defeating 2018 World Cup runners-up Croatia 3-0 in their opening group match, followed by victories against defending champions Italy and Albania. In the Round of 16, they triumphed over a confident Georgia, who had previously upset Portugal in the group stage. Their toughest test came against Germany in the quarterfinals, a match that showcased the quality of football from both sides. Spain took the lead in the 51st minute with a goal from Dani Olmo, assisted by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal. Despite Florian Wirtz’s late equalizer for Germany, Spain’s resilience shone through as Mikel Merino scored the winning header in extra time, securing their place in the last four.
Spain’s performance against Germany alone has many convinced they deserve the trophy. Their ability to recover quickly from setbacks, as demonstrated by their response to Wirtz’s goal, sets them apart from other teams, like Slovakia, who crumbled under similar circumstances against England.
In contrast, France has not been as impressive, largely due to Kylian Mbappe’s inconsistent form. The star striker, who was pivotal in France’s 2018 World Cup victory and 2022 World Cup runner-up finish, has been struggling since breaking his nose in the opening match against Austria. Although he returned in a mask for the final group game, he has yet to regain his top form.
Despite these challenges, France has managed to avoid defeat, with wins and draws securing their progress. In the Round of 16, they overcame Belgium, one of Europe’s highest-ranked teams, and then defeated 2016 champions Portugal in a penalty shootout in the quarterfinals.
All eyes will be on Mbappe tonight at the Allianz Arena in Munich. If he can rediscover his 2022 World Cup form, France’s chances of reaching the final will significantly improve. Regardless of the outcome, tonight’s match promises to be an exciting spectacle. Spain will be without Pedri, who sustained a knee injury against Germany, but their performance in his absence has been strong.
At this stage, Spain appears to be the overwhelming favorites, but Kylian Mbappe remains the potential game-changer who could alter the course of the match.
