THE (SEMI-)FINAL COUNTDOWN
The UEFA EURO 2024 semi-final between Spain and France is being touted as a classic clash of heroes versus villains. Just as in the wider world, football has its own heroes (Philomena Cunk, Sir Patrick Vallance, Big Pun) and villains (Gregg Wallace, that bloke with the ukulele singing to Dua Lipa at Glastonbury, the bamboo that refuses to stop growing in Euro 2024 Daily’s garden).
Spain, our heroes, are the best team at the tournament, playing fluent, thrilling football with both freedom and control. They have the best midfielder in the world and a 16-year-old phenom, Lamine Yamal, who has been a standout at this tournament. Despite playing 50 games for Barcelona last season, Yamal has managed to shine brightly. Nico Williams also deserves mention. Spain’s pre-match 90s-inspired Adidas tracksuits add to their cool factor.
On the other side, France, despite their immense talent, have not impressed. Their pragmatic and often dull style of play contrasts sharply with Spain’s exciting football. France has failed to score from open play, relying on turgid tactics that get results. Didier Deschamps, unbothered by the criticism, emphasized that their primary goal is to make the French people happy through results, regardless of the style of play.
Adding to the tension, Kylian Mbappé and Antoine Griezmann are both struggling with fitness issues. Deschamps acknowledged that their injuries have been a challenge but maintained faith in their ability to change the game at any moment. Winning is all that matters for France at this stage.
While Spain and France are not literal heroes and villains, their contrasting styles and narratives make for a compelling semi-final. Fans hope for a goal or two to liven up the proceedings.
LIVE ON BIG WEBSITE
Join Scott Murray from 8pm BST for live Euro 2024 semi-final coverage of Spain vs. France.
QUOTE OF THE DAY
“He’s our captain, he’s our leader, he leads by example and we all follow him” – Luke Shaw is just one of many teammates defending England’s Harry Kane after his underwhelming performances in Germany so far.
RECOMMENDED LISTENING
The Football Daily pod squad returns: Max Rushden is joined by Barney Ronay, Jonathan Liew, and Jonathan Wilson to preview the semi-finals.
RECOMMENDED LOOKING
David Squires on … England’s performance art on their run to the last four.
EURO 2024 DAILY LETTERS
Clinton Macsherry shares a memorable visit to Boston’s L St Tavern, a major set for Good Will Hunting, and reflects on the possibility of a new savant in the vein of Will Hunting. As the curtain potentially falls on Cristiano Ronaldo’s international career, Macsherry hopes Rafael Leão will shine brighter in his absence.
Krishna Moorthy offers a satirical take on potential final matchups: “Spain vs. Netherlands final: there is a future for football. Spain vs. England final: the irresistible force meets the lucky pack. France vs. Netherlands final: the undeserving meet the better team. France vs. England final: switch off TV, go for a long walk.”
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