In a remarkable moment for European Championship history, 16-year-old Lamine Yamal scored a sensational goal, making him the youngest player to ever find the net in the tournament. His crucial strike helped Spain secure a 2-1 victory over France in the semifinal on Tuesday.
As Yamal approaches his 17th birthday this Saturday, he is set to celebrate it in Berlin, where Spain will face either England or the Netherlands in the final on Sunday.
Yamal, who was honored as the player of the match, expressed his determination, saying, “I only ask to win, win, and win. I will celebrate my birthday in Germany with my team.”
The defining moment came in the 21st minute when Yamal unleashed a curling shot from around 25 yards, sending the ball past French goalkeeper Mike Maignan and into the top left corner of the net.
Reflecting on his achievement, Yamal said, “I don’t know if it is the best goal of the tournament, but it is the most special goal for me because it is my first goal with the team at a European Championship.”
At 16 years and 362 days old, Yamal shattered the previous record held by Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen, who was 18 years and 141 days old when he scored against France in Euro 2004.