Spain gain revenge on Germany to secure European under-21 title
SPAIN gained revenge on Germany for heartache two years ago by claiming the European under-21 title with a 2-1 win in Italy.
In 2017 the Spaniards slipped to a 1-0 defeat against the Germans – a loss that has stuck with many of those involved since then.
But this time round they made no mistake as the cruised to a comfortable victory, made slightly tighter by a late consolation from the deposed champions.
West Ham’s new signing Pablo Fornal has made a big impact on the tournament – which saw favourites England crash out in humiliating fashion in the group stages.
And though he again impressed, it was Fabian Ruiz who caught the eye with the opening goal after just eight minutes.
Napoli star Ruiz was too sharp for his markers as he drove a low shot into the bottom corner to hand Spain the lead.
That allowed the Spanish to take a firm grip on the match, and the only surprise was how long it took for them to double their advantage.
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Ruiz was again involved, this time seeing his low shot spilled by Germany keeper Alexander Nuebel, allowing Dani Olmo to chip home the rebound.
Carlos Soler then saw his long-range shot cannon back off the crossbar before Germany set up a nervy finish by snatching a surprise goal through Nadiem Amiri on 87 minutes.
But Spain were able to see out the remainder of the match to clinch the title and join Italy as the most successful under-21 side in Europe with five championship wins.