They played a better game than us: Mbappe after Spain beat France

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A disappointed Kylian Mbappe said on Tuesday Spain played a better game than his France in Dortmund as the Spaniards reached the final, adding the Euro 2024 was a failure for him.

“I think we were close in the end but football is like that and sometimes you shouldn’t overcomplicate things. Sometimes you are good and sometimes you are not good. I wasn’t good and that’s it, we go home. It’s simple. Now, as I said, I have to rest. It’s going to be important that I rest well and then I’m off to a new life with new things to do,” Mbappe said.

Spain teenager Lamine Yamal, meanwhile, sought to play down excitement over his wonder goal, but said reaching the European Championship final was a dream come true for him – and his mother too.

“Nothing, I just remember that Dani Olmo had the ball, he gave it to me and I didn’t think about it. I was confident and tried to put in the top corner, luckily it went in and I’m very happy.”

Sixteen-year-old Yamal eclipsed Brazilian great Pele to become the youngest player to score in a World Cup or Euros with a stunning 21st-minute strike that sailed into the top corner, helping Spain come from a goal down to beat France 2-1.

Spain’s midfielder Rodri praised Yamal, saying that while everyone will remember his goal, his defensive commitment was something to highlight.