News Mania Desk/Agnibeena Ghosh/15th July 2024
Spain’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal celebrated his 17th birthday in unforgettable fashion by winning the Euro 2024 championship and being named the tournament’s best young player. Yamal played a crucial role in Spain’s success, setting up Nico Williams’ opening goal in their 2-1 victory over England in the final on July 14, 2024.
Reflecting on his achievement, Yamal expressed his elation, saying, “This is the best birthday gift I could have asked for. It’s a dream come true. It got tough when they tied the score, but I don’t know what this team is made of because we always fight back.”
Despite his remarkable performance, Yamal inadvertently broke a German employment law during the tournament. The law restricts those under 18 from working past 8 PM, with exceptions for athletes extending only until 11 PM. Many Euro 2024 matches, including the final, started at 9 PM local time, thus putting Yamal in violation of the law when Spain’s celebrations extended beyond 11 PM.
German authorities had granted special dispensation for Yamal to play, but his post-match activities, such as interviews and celebrations, extended beyond the allowed hours. According to German publication Bild, this infraction could lead to a fine of up to €30,000 (£25,390) for the Spanish team, although they would not face any sporting sanctions.
During the tournament, Yamal showcased his prodigious talent by scoring once and providing four assists. His standout moment came in the semi-finals with a superb strike against France. In the final, Yamal’s assist to Nico Williams helped Spain take an early lead, demonstrating his impact on the team’s success.
Yamal’s journey in international football has been meteoric. He made his senior debut for Spain in a qualifier against Georgia last September, becoming the youngest player and youngest goalscorer in Spain’s history by netting the final goal in a 7-1 win. His performances in Euro 2024 have cemented his status as one of football’s brightest young stars.
The final match saw Spain triumph over England with goals from Nico Williams and Mikel Oyarzabal. Despite a valiant effort from England, including an equalizer from Cole Palmer, Spain secured the victory, extending England’s 60-year wait for a major trophy.
Yamal’s contributions throughout the tournament earned him the best young player award, a testament to his exceptional skill and maturity on the field. His assist to Williams in the final’s 47th minute was a pivotal moment, showcasing his ability to perform under pressure.
While Yamal’s inadvertent breach of German law made headlines, it did not overshadow his outstanding performance. The young winger’s role in Spain’s Euro 2024 victory has established him as a key player for the future, with fans and pundits alike eagerly anticipating his continued growth and success in international football.
Spain’s triumph in Euro 2024 not only highlighted their dominance in the sport but also underscored the emergence of a new generation of talent led by the likes of Lamine Yamal. As Spain celebrated their victory, Yamal’s exceptional contributions were rightfully recognized, marking the beginning of what promises to be a stellar career for the young phenomenon.
