Spain’s Unlikely Euro 2024 Squad: The Underdogs Making a Deep Run
It’s been 12 years since Spain won the Euros, and what a difference 12 years can make. The team that demolished Italy in the 2012 final was a powerhouse of talent, featuring all-stars from Real Madrid and Barcelona. Pep Guardiola and Jose Mourinho were dueling it out in the Premier League, while Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo were dominating the pitch. But the Spanish team that’s now making a deep run in Euro 2024 is the polar opposite – a ragtag group of misfits who are defying expectations left and right.
Led by 61-year-old coach Luis de la Fuente, who’s more like a substitute teacher than a top-tier manager, this Spanish team is all about heart and grit. They’ve been underdogs throughout the tournament, but have consistently outperformed expectations. Gone are the days of possession football; instead, De la Fuente’s team relies on pacey wingers like Nico Williams and 16-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal to penetrate the opposition defense.
One of the biggest surprises is Yamal, who scored the goal of the tournament against France in the quarterfinals. Despite being just a year away from being allowed to vote, he’s already showing the kind of confidence and self-assurance you expect from seasoned pros. And who can forget Álvaro Morata, the former Real Madrid star who’s had an itinerant career, but is finally finding his footing with this Spanish squad?
De la Fuente’s approach is simple yet effective. Gone are the convoluted tactics of the Luis Enrique era; instead, he’s focused on playing to his strengths and letting his players do the talking. And boy, do they ever. This team’s got heart, and they’re playing with a level of passion and unity that’s infectious.
So, will Spain go all the way? It’s hard to predict, but they’ve certainly got the momentum on their side. If you’re not already following us on all social media platforms, now’s the perfect time to join the conversation! With our expert analysis and up-to-the-minute updates, you won’t miss a thing. Follow us today and get ready to ride the wave with Spain’s underdog squad.
[Embedded video: Fans in Madrid go wild as Spain fight back to lead France]
Stats and Facts
- Spain’s average age in the starting lineup is 25.7 years old, the youngest in the tournament.
- Lamine Yamal’s goal against France was the second-fastest in the tournament history (12 minutes).
- Álvaro Morata has scored five goals in the tournament, tied for the most among Spanish players.
- Coach Luis de la Fuente has no experience managing in first-tier club football.
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