Spain's Evolution Towards Modern Football Yields Euro 2024 Victory

Spain achieved the best record in Germany, sweeping all seven matches and accumulating an impressive score of 15 goals. Such success over Italy, Germany, France, and England manifested through a game evolution carried out under the guidance of Coach Luis de la Fuente over the past 18 months. This new approach has broken away from Spain's traditionally possession-heavy style, introducing added dynamism with young wingers Williams and 17-year-old Lamine Yamal.

However, this win doesn't just signify a triumphant moment for Spain, but a revival from a series of past defeats. After reaping a golden era with successive Euro and World Cup wins from 2008 to 2012, Spain saw a decline, touching rock bottom with defeats in the World Cup of 2014, 2018, and 2022. Coach de la Fuente, who succeeded Luis Enrique after the 2022 Morocco loss, recognized the need for change in Spain's tactical game.

Acknowledging that football evolves "technically and tactically," de la Fuente initiated a shift focusing on the strengths of young players, control and possession, and a solid defense. As a result, Spain transformed their game to cater to modern requirements, striking a balance in all areas of play, as highlighted by the performances of Williams and Yamal.

These two young footballers are at the heart of Spain's transformation. Their unpredictable style, combined with good in-game intelligence, allows Spain to adapt to direct needs during a match. Their combined contribution of seven out of Spain’s 15 goals during the tournament gave proof of their invaluable place in the team and in Spain's journey towards adapting to the demands of modern football.