Nico Williams: “Spain had to endure like beasts”
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Forward Nico Williams stated that Spain had to endure immense pressure after conceding a goal to England in the Euro 2024 final.
Nico Williams delivered an explosive performance in the Euro 2024 final, helping Spain secure their fourth European Championship title. The 22-year-old had a standout match, scoring a goal and earning the Man of the Match award.
After the game, Williams candidly shared his thoughts about the moment he scored against the “Three Lions”: “I wanted the match to end right away, but that didn’t happen. When we were equalized, we had to endure. We had to endure like beasts.”
He continued, “Now, we don’t realize what we’ve accomplished. Tomorrow, we will return to Spain and maybe experience this with the fans, responding to the love and warmth they have given us. I think we have made history.”
The Athletic Bilbao star dedicated the prestigious title to his parents, who are Ghanaian refugees, and affirmed that La Roja is making a historic change.
Williams adds: “My family fought for this moment. This is for all of them, for everyone who believed in me from the beginning. My parents endured so much to get here; they are the ones who endured the most and passed on to me this respect and loyalty. Ultimately, I believe that football players can have a big impact on society, and I’m truly happy that we are making history.” Photo: Getty
In addition to Williams, Lamine Yamal also had a memorable summer at 17, winning the Best Young Player award of the tournament. Williams praised his teammate, saying: “Lamine is amazing… you all saw him in this tournament. He won the award for Best Young Player. His future is limitless. He is a great player and a wonderful person.”
Returning to the match, after Nico Williams’ opening goal, Spain was unexpectedly equalized by Cole Palmer’s precise strike. Just as it seemed the game would go to extra time, Mikel Oyarzabal punished England’s defensive mistake with the decisive goal, securing the win and the championship for La Roja.
This marks Spain’s fourth Euro title, and their first since their last victory in 2012.
