Spain's first goal against England in Berlin exemplified their strategic prowess. Starting from the back line, the Spanish build-up play was a sight to behold. England's hesitation or inability to press high allowed Dani Carvajal the freedom to execute a decisive pass from the back. Carvajal, a player who recently became the second individual to start in six winning Champions League finals, showcased his exceptional skills.

Defenders today are no longer mere foot soldiers; they are hybrid attackers and match-winners. Carvajal’s exquisite one-touch pass, executed with perfect technique and timing, found Yamal in space. Had this touch been miscalculated, England’s Jude Bellingham or Luke Shaw would have pounced, leaving Spain exposed. Instead, Carvajal’s touch turned the tide, setting up an offensive play that left England reeling.

Late into the night, at the iconic and somewhat eerie Olympic Stadium, I had the pleasure of speaking with Nico Williams. His joy was palpable as he recounted the moment he scored, unsure of how to celebrate and trying "50 different silly things." Williams praised Carvajal’s pass, noting the tactical movement of Dani Olmo, which drew Kyle Walker away, leaving Williams with the task of finishing the play quickly, lest Walker block his shot.

Spain’s winning goal epitomized their technical superiority and footballing intelligence. Dani Olmo, positioned between the lines, chose not to pass left to Marc Cucurella but instead sent the ball forward to Mikel Oyarzabal. Oyarzabal, who had endured a long and arduous recovery from injury, demonstrated the technical finesse instilled in him by the Spanish football school. His first-touch pass to Cucurella set up the decisive goal, emphasizing the power of precision and quick decision-making in football.

Spain's success against England can be attributed to their technical skills and the willingness to take calculated risks. This mentality, deeply ingrained in players like Carvajal, Williams, and others, allows Spain to dominate possession and create opportunities with minimal space. Marc Cucurella, initially unsure of his place in the team, embraced the opportunity, contributing significantly to the victory.

Despite missing key players like Gavi, Pedri, and Rodri, Spain triumphed with their core principles intact: possession, high pressing, and technical excellence. Their style, though more direct and goal-oriented compared to their 2010 and 2012 successes, retains the same foundational ideas. Spain’s performance at Euro 2024 highlighted these enduring values, proving their effectiveness over 16 years of international dominance.

At the end of the evening, in the same stadium where Jesse Owens defied adversity in 1936, Nico Williams sought out his mother to share his medal, calling her "the champion of life." This moment encapsulated the spirit of Spanish football: a blend of technical brilliance, tactical intelligence, and heartfelt humanity.

Spain’s victory at Euro 2024 is more than a testament to their footballing prowess; it’s a celebration of their unique approach to the game. As I predicted weeks ago, Spain has not only won the tournament but has set the stage for future successes. Viva España!