Lamine Yamal makes history in Spain's 2-1 win over France

Spain v France: Semi-Final - UEFA EURO 2024
Spain v France: Semi-Final - UEFA EURO 2024 | Justin Setterfield/GettyImages

At 16 years and 362 days, Lamine Yamal became the youngest scorer in EURO history following his curler in Spain's 2-1 win over France.

His goal couldn't have come at a better time for Spain who were trailing France 1-0 at the time.

"I was aiming for exactly the top corner where my shot went in and that was a feeling of pure elation," Yamal said after the game. "I try not to think too much about what's going on. I just want to enjoy myself and help the team."

He certainly did that and could have added another assist to his tournament earlier. But that chance was wasted by a poor header from Fabian Ruiz.

No one can argue that Lamine Yamal hasn't taken advantage of the opportunity given to him by manager Luis de la Fuente. Those who were critical of his call-up during the qualification process are now likely signing a different tune.

Despite all Yamal has accomplished so far, De la Fuente isn't going overboard.

"We have to help him by keeping his feet on the ground and developing him in the best way," De la Fuente said. "That's about clam and tranquility. In Ancient Rome, when they talked about Caesar they would say: 'Remember he's mortal.'"

Yamal, alongside Nico Williams, are the biggest difference between this Spain and the one managed by Luis Enrique in the 2022 World Cup.

TOPSHOT-FBL-EURO-2024-MATCH49-ESP-FRA
TOPSHOT-FBL-EURO-2024-MATCH49-ESP-FRA | FRANCK FIFE/GettyImages

What's made Lamal's performances impressive is his decision making ability. The ability to know when to cross or when to shoot is something that takes players time to mature and understand. Lamal is mastering this part of the game at just 16.

Like Yamal said, however, his job, and Spain's, isn't done.

Spain will play the Euro 2024 final on Sunday, July 14. A day earlier, he will have celebrated his 17th birthday. If you ask Yamal, he can think of no better present than winning his first title with the national team.