13/07/2024
*EURO 2024 FINAL*
England has a chance to make history by facing Spain in the Euro 2024 final on Sunday evening. The Three Lions earned their spot by defeating the Netherlands 2-1 in the semi-final, with Xavi Simons scoring for the Dutch before Harry Kane equalized with a controversial penalty and Ollie Watkins securing the win in the final minute.
Spain, who beat France, 2-1 too in thier own encounter are slight favorites.
The final will be held at the Olympiastadion in Berlin, German. 8pm UK time on Sunday.
Spain aims for their fourth Euros title, while England seeks their first European Championship, having last won a major trophy in 1966.
Gareth Southgate’s team hopes to avenge their Euro 2020 loss to Italy. Frenchman Francois Letexier who also is a court ballif, will referee the match.
Should England win, there will be a victory parade, likely in Trafalgar Square, as plans for Wembley were scrapped due to high policing costs. Historically, Trafalgar Square has been a venue for sporting celebrations, including the England women's team's Euro 2022 win.
Reports suggest England could have nearly 50,000 supporters in the 71,000-capacity Olympiastadion, potentially outnumbering Spanish fans two to one. Winning would also qualify England for the CONMEBOL–UEFA Cup of Champions, where they would face the Copa America winners.
British Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer hinted at a potential additional Bank Holiday if England wins. A petition for the holiday is gaining momentum, and Starmer has previously advocated for a holiday if the Lionesses had won their World Cup final. The Labour leader has indicated that an additional Bank Holiday could be called for Monday, the day after the final.