England 1-2 Spain - Euro 2024 final RECAP: All the reaction as Gareth Southgate addresses his future after Three Lions fall at the final hurdle with wait for a trophy now stretching to 60 YEARS

Our final Euro 2024 blog is now at an end.

What a tournament it has been. Four weeks, 51 matches, 117 goals, and one winner.

A magical tournament culminated in a fascinating final in Berlin, and it was Spain who reigned supreme for a record fourth time.

It just wasn't to be for England. They made history but in the wrong way by losing back-to-back European Championship finals.

It looked like Cole Palmer's second-half screamer meant we were going to extra time, but Mikel Oyarzabal broke English hearts four minutes from time.

At least there are only two more years until the World Cup though, eh?

Will Gareth Southgate be leading the Three Lions in two years? It's yet to be seen.

There is nothing better than getting to cover a major international tournament and it's been a pleasure to guide you through the month and its finale.

From everybody at Mail Sport, thank you for following our coverage.

We will see you all very soon.

After a month of verdicts on England from Mail Sport's Craig Hope, we have our final one.

It's the biggest of the lot too.

What did Craig make of England's performance? Who didn't turn up? Who did?

All that and lots more. Go have a watch.

Alan Shearer, former England captain, on BBC One:

When Gareth [Southgate] started off, England were in big trouble. He has taken us from the very bottom and taken us to a team that are almost successful. But that was three years ago and the players have got better and with that, expectations have got higher. Unfortunately, you have to deal with that.

Getting to finals when you have got the quality of players like England have and not winning it, is not going to be good enough. They have got a togetherness, they have got a steeliness, but I think they are better than what they have shown us.

Right, I think it's about time you heard from somebody other than me.

Mail Sport's Oliver Holt was at the Olympiastadion to bear witness to a crushing night for England.

Despite the result, Oliver does not want to point the blame at Southgate. After all, England were not in finals before him.

All is fair in love and war.

To read Oliver's match story, click below:

Strong words from Jamie Carragher.

A lot of the talk during this tournament has been about Gareth Southgate, but Carragher doesn't get it.

Instead, he has pointed a finger at the players for not turning up when it mattered.

Is this a fair comment?

The proof is in the pudding.

England can have no complaints tonight, they lost to the better team.

After a less than lively first half, the second period sprung into life, both teams finally took off the shackles.

Spain ended up having more shots, more on target, more possession, more big chances.

Luis de la Fuente's side were pretty dominant.

Oh dear, this is not what you want to see.

The ugly side of football has reared its head again after England's defeat in the final.

Three Lions fans in Benidorm let it get to them and have started fights in the Spanish town.

Disgusting scenes. I never get why they feel the need.

England's 26-man squad wasn't exactly utilised to its full potential this tournament.

Gareth Southgate truly showed his loyalty to certain stars in this tournament.

The England manager only made five changes to his starting 11 all tournament, making only one switch each occasion.

11 players from the 26 did not make a start for the Three Lions, with five not even getting a minute.

Here's the list:

No starts at Euro 2024: Cole Palmer, Eberechi Eze, Ollie Watkins, Ivan Toney, Jarrod Bowen, Anthony Gordon, Lewis Dunk, Joe Gomez, Adam Wharton, Aaron Ramsdale and Dean Henderson.

Gordon only got one minute...

Cole Palmer is some talent, isn't he?

Yes, he ended up on the losing side tonight, but he changed the game massively when he came on.

It took him just three minutes to score after entering the action, and my word was it a belting goal.

In the semi-final, he provided the assist to win the game off the bench. He is a game-changer.

Despite all this, he didn't start a single game this tournament.

Cole Palmer, England goalscorer, speaking to ITV1:

Spain have been brilliant all tournament, everyone has seen what they can do so congratulations to them. We hoped to but we didn't do that. I'm gutted.

We got to another final, there's positives to take but everyone wanted to go one step further and we didn't. Gareth's been amazing for the group. We've got to back-to-back finals so it's been good.

They look absolutely gutted.

I mean, they are hardly going to be skipping out of the stadium, but every single star looks devastated.

It's going to take them some time to recover from this, I feel.

Juan Mata, Euro 2012 winner, speaking about Lamine Yamal on BBC One:

I was having dinner yesterday with Xavi and he told me he hasn't seen a player of this quality, and he played with Messi. I don't like to make comparisons between players or compare them with Messi but I think the sky is the limit for this kid [Yamal].

Not so magical in the English capital.

It's a feeling England fans are all too familiar with - disappointment.

There are countless pictures of the Three Lions faithful looking downbeat. It was a rough night for them.

Another night of pain in a major final.

I think fans in Madrid enjoyed that, don't you?

Pictures have come through from a fan zone in the Spanish capital and it looks like a party.

I hope they had a good siesta earlier because they might have a long night ahead of them

It is a Sunday, though, so you never know.

If you're English, keep scrolling.

This is the moment that secured a fourth European Championship for Spain.

It was a special goal. The ball from Marc Cucurella was sublime, and the timing of Oyarzabal's run was perfect.

Any Spaniards in the blog, enjoy!

Lamine Yamal, Young Player of the Tournament and Spain winger:

I am very happy. This is a dream. I'm looking forward to returning to Spain and celebrating with all the fans. It's the best birthday present ever. When England equalised, it was difficult. I don't know what this team is made of, but we always manage to get back up.

While Harry Kane suffers yet more heartache, a sensational 17-year-old already has his first international trophy.

Lamine Yamal only turned 17 yesterday, but tonight he played with maturity way beyond his years, again.

It's hard to comprehend just how special this kid is.

He could have scored two tonight, but he still notched up an assist and caused England problems all night.

This is just the start of an illustrious career.

A penny for Harry Kane's thoughts...

I'm not sure I have ever seen such a fantastic player not get their hands on a trophy.

Kane has reached six finals in his career, including two with England, but he has left empty-handed every single time.

He must be wondering if he will ever win any silverware.

Another one has slipped from his grasp right at the last moment.

Harry Kane was not beating around the bush, he left the Olympiastadion pronto.

It was not the best of nights for the England captain, he really struggled to make any impact on the game.

And to lose yet another final, he will be hurting so much. Another trophy eludes him.

Betfair: Next permanent England manager

• Graham Potter: Evens
• Mauricio Pochettino: 5/2
• Eddie Howe: 7/2
• Pep Guardiola: 15/2
• Lee Carsley: 9/1
• Jurgen Klopp: 14/1

Which one would you want in the hot seat?

I must say, the fact that Pep Guardiola is on that list truly surprises me. Surely, there I no chance?

I guess you never know...

Harry Kane, England captain, speaking to ITV:

It's hard to put into words how we're all feeling right now. Tough game. We did well to get back into the game and struggled to build on that. To concede late on is really tough to take. We've been coming from behind all tournament, we've got it in the locker. We didn't take the next step and win it.

In the first half, we struggled. We couldn't keep the ball. Second half was better and we got the goal. We got caught with a cross and that's the final. It's an opportunity missed. These finals aren't easy to get to. You have to take it when it comes and we haven't done it again. It's extremely painful and it'll hurt for a long time. Gareth will go away and take time to decide. We wanted to win it for him."

Surely not?

A lot of you seem to be calling for Jurgen Klopp to become England manager after Gareth Southgate.

Firstly, we don't definitely know that Southgate will leave. He might want another crack at the World Cup.

And secondly, Klopp wants a break from the game, he is just living his best life.

But apart from that...

Anonymous: England should go for someone like Klopp.

Anonymous: The only good thing to come from tonight will hopefully be that Southgate decides not to pursue a contract extension. He’s a genuinely lovely bloke - but he’s not a winner and his default thinking is not to lose. Time for change.

Anonymous: We need Klopp, next manager, why? He is a winner. Also, the England job is only part-time. Just saying.

Plenty of calls for Jurgen Klopp...

Also, Please put your names on your comments if you want them to be included.

Look away, England fans...

We have seen the dejection of the Three Lions faithful, now he is the pure jubilation of the Spain fans in Madrid.

A night they will never forget. I'm sure parties all across the country are well underway.

Not quite the same over here.

Spain were brutally good at Euro 2024.

Seven matches, seven wins, 15 goals scored. Simply sensational.

They are the first side in European Championship history to win all seven of their games (excluding penalties)

If you are going to win a tournament, Spain have just laid out the blueprint for how you do it.

Just win every game... not that hard, right?

Rio Ferdinand, former England defender, speaking on BBC One:

You have to look at what talent pool we have and I don't feel like we are putting them in the best position possible. I think the manger has to take some stick for that. The FA have got a big decision to make.

King Charles has had his say following a disappointing night.

It's fair to say, the King does not want to get too downbeat about the situation.

He has stated that the Three Lions have brought 'pride' upon the nation with their achievement this summer.

A very heartfelt message.

You can see the heartbreak in all of their eyes.

England fans have been on a rollercoaster this tournament which has culminated in agony.

Some of the fans have reacted well despite this. I mean, they have had many highs over the past four weeks.

As one said, it just wasn't meant to be.

Gareth Southgate, England boss, speaking to ITV1:

I think they were the best team in the tournament. We didn’t keep the ball well enough but we were in it until the last. I am devastated for everyone, players have been incredible, I am so proud. We had a little bit of momentum. Big chance at the end to equalise as well but I’m not sure we did quite enough.

Against Spain, you have to keep the ball when you win it back. We were fine defensively in the first half but that takes it out of your legs. There's no hiding from we have had a lot of issues. We have managed to deal with most of them but we have fallen short.

The players have got to take enormous credit for getting us as close as they did. I am proud of the way they have fought, represented the shirt with pride, never beaten until five minutes of the last game. We didn’t quite keep the ball well enough, they had more control, and that made the difference.

I don’t think now is a good time to make a decision. I have to talk to the right people. It is not for now. England are in a really good position in terms of the experiences they have now and the age of the squad. This squad will be around for the next World Cup. There is a lot to look forward to but that is no consolation.

England wanted to make history tonight... and I guess they did.

Not the right kind, though.

The Three Lions have become the first side to make two back-to-back European Championship finals and lose them both.

A heartbreaking night in Berlin.

It feels like it is, doesn't it?

I am inclined to agree with Alan Shearer, I could easily see Alan Shearer walk away from England now.

After eight years in the hot seat, a natural end is certainly near.

He has done a marvellous job in the role, reaching to European Championship finals. It's a shame for him he couldn't win either.

Do you think Southgate will walk away?

Alan Shearer, former England captain, on BBC One:

I suspect it will be Southgate's last game. From where he took over and where they are now. There will be great disappointment at home. Yes, we could have played more attacking football but they have got to the final. But when you are here, you have got to get over the line.

The reality is he got us to a final three years ago and got us to a final here, and hasn't won. That will hurt him and maybe he will think it's time for someone else.

Spain write their name in the history books yet again.

They have now won four European Championships, which is more than any other nation.

Three of those have come in the 21st century.

A nation that just knows how to win trophies, and this one will be even sweeter after 12 years without one.

A special night for the Spanish.

The moment is here. Alvaro Morata picks up the trophy and ambles onto the podium.

He takes his time and then lifts the trophy way above his head. the champions have their crown.

Queen's 'We are the Champions' is then blasted out of the speakers in the stadium.

The Spanish party is well and truly underway.

As expected, the England players do not look like they want to collect their medals.

They move through quickly looking downbeat. It must be a horrible feeling.

Now it's time for the Spanish (they look happier).

The players of the tournament are collecting their accolades, and unsurprisingly, they come from Spain.

Lamine Yamal is first up, he wins the Young Player of the Tournament. What a competition he had, and what a player he is. Just 17.

Rodri is then awarded Player of the Tournament. he is a man who just doesn't know how to lose.

And now, we are nearly ready for the trophy presentation.

England will collect their medals first...

Chris Sutton, It's All Kicking Off! co-host, on BBC Radio 5 Live:

England were not brave enough on the evening to make the next step. It is a good thing for football that Spain won the tournament with the brand they have played. Spain played the beautiful game and England didn't - the beauty of Gareth's team has been getting over the line.

These pictures tell the story.

Those England players are truly gutted, to get to the final and lose again will be crushing.

For some, it could be their last tournament match in an England shirt.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Berlin:

Spain were the best team in this tournament and the best team here tonight. England did what they do once more time. Got knocked down and got back out. But teams win tournaments rather than individual moments. Well done Spain.

The scenes of celebration are in full flow for the Spanish.

They deserve this. Luis de la Fuente's side have been the best side all tournament, by some way as well.

As an England fan you may feel down right now, but the Three Lions lost to the better team.

The Spanish just know how to get it done!

England are dejected.

Two finals reached under Gareth Southgate, two finals lost. You can see the heartbreak on that pitch.

Spain were just too good for them today, the Three Lions were pinned back for long periods.

Southgate is now consoling his players out on the pitch, they are purely devastated.

Lee Dixon, former England international, on ITV1:

You have to feel for them. There are some broken hearts out there. The best team did win, the best team won tonight. England were in and out of the game and didn’t really have total control of any of it. Spain were too good for them in the end. What a sad way to go out. It was meant to be a lot different to this.

The wait goes on for England.

The referee blows the whistle and Spain are a record four-time winners of the European Championship.

Cole Palmer thought he had saved England from defeat, but Mikel Oyarzabal broke their hearts with just minutes to go.

Agony for England.

Marc Cucurella is down rolling on the floor under a challenge from Bukayo Saka.

That might just be that.

It's desperation stations for England.

Spain have committed three fouls in the last minute, and England just can't make use of any of the free-kicks.

The Three Lions may have just one more chance...

England have just four minutes to salvage extra-time.

Can they do it, or will England fall at the final hurdle yet again?

How has that not gone in???

Dani Olmo somehow heads off the line from John Stones to keep Spain ahead.

Declan Rice then heads over, and Spain celebrate it like a goal.

Is that England's moment gone?

Ally McCoist, former Scotland international, on ITV1:

It’s really tight. A beautiful move down the left hand side. What a pass from Cucurella. The goalkeeper has got to commit himself, it’s a beautiful finish.

Mikel Oyarzabal surely wins it for Spain!

It's another substitution who does the damage, this time for the Spanish.

Marc Cucurella fires a lovely ball into the area and Oyarzabal is there to fire it beyond Jordan Pickford.

It's tight for offside, but he is just about the right side of the line.

Spain on the verge.

Prince William and his son Prince George went wild after England's super-sub Cole Palmer levelled the score.

The Prince of Wales was seen punching the air in delight as 10-year-old George roared with joy.

Luis de la Fuente has decided to make a change at the back.

Nacho Fernandez enters the fray to replace Robin le Normand.

Nacho certainly knows what European glory feels like!

Jordan Pickford the hero yet again!

He denies Lamine Yamal as he looks certain to score for the second time this game.

Yamal must be wondering what he has to do to find the back of the net.

I can't believe he hasn't!

This statistic is wild.

Cole Palmer makes history off the bench, and it took him just three minutes to do it.

Some goal, too. What you call a cracker.

I have just thought back to that Jordan Pickford save, how vital could that be?

It was nearly 2-0, now it's 1-1, and England are in control.

Big moments win matches, can the Three Lions make it count?

This match has been flipped on its head.

Suddenly it;'s the Spanish who are panicking and England are coming at them.

That is why you make substitutions!

WHAT A GOAL THAT IS BY COLE PALMER!

Three minutes after coming on Palmer has levelled the final with an absolute cracker.

Bukayo Saka leads the counter-attack, the ball is sent into Jude Bellingham, who lays it off for Palmer to shoot.

What a shot it is as well, he bends it low into the bottom corner from distance.

Southgate's subs do it again!

That is why everyone was calling for Ollie Watkins.

He is so close to getting in behind, but the ball just doesn't fall for him.

Watkins is making Spain panic at the back for the first time all game.

It's time for another England change.

Cole Palmer, the other semi-final hero, is now on for Kobbie Mainoo.

A very attacking change, will it work?

One striker captain is already off, and now is the other.

Alvaro Morata's shift is over, Mikel Oyarzabal comes onto the pitch to replace him.

Will Morata be lifting the trophy by the end of the night?

As it stands, he will.

Jordan Pickford keeps England in this final!

Lamine Yamal is through, he is set to double Spain's lead, but Pickford gets low to deny him at the vital moment.

I thought that was it, I really did.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

England have relied on big moments all tournament. They need someone to stand up again. Ollie Watkins coming on has forced Spain to drop a little deeper and already England look better.

Oh, that is nearly so, so special from Jude Bellingham.

England are looking so much brighter and the ball comes into Bellingham on the edge of the area.

He turns two players with one beautiful spin before firing wide with a stinging strike.

Much better from the Three Lions.

We have handbags in Berlin!

Bukayo Saka is taken down by Nico Williams, and England are not happy whatsoever.

Kyle Walker then gets into it with Marc Cucurella. Things are really starting to heat up.

The eventual free-kick brings nothing, though.

Here we go, Ollie Watkins is on the pitch.

Harry Kane is the man to make way. The England captain has been miles off it tonight.

How much will this change England's approach?

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Berlin:

How crucial will that miss from Dani Olmo earlier be? A second goal would have killed England but they are still very much in this. The fourth time this tournament they have been behind

It seems they are going to get their wish, Aadam!

Gareth Southgate has called for Ollie Watkins to get stripped and ready.

The semi-final hero will be coming on very soon.

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

England fans singing for Ollie Watkins…

Spain are battering England at the moment, the Three Lions are clinging on for dear life.

Alvaro Morata breaks into the area and slides the ball past Jordan Pickford, but John Stones is there to hook it away.

England then give the ball away and Nico Williams smashes the ball just wide of the post from distance.

Gareth Southgate has to make a change here!

England could not have had a worse start to the second half if they tried.

John Stones is now booked for a silly challenge and the frustration is there for all to see.

Lee Dixon, former England international, on ITV1:

When we see this again… the first time Shaw is out of position. He gets caught with Yamal inside him. That pass is the killer pass and he doesn’t have to do anything. Shaw got caught with two players.

What did Luis de la Fuente say at half-time?

It should be 2-0. Dani Olmo turns inside the area, eight years out you expect him to score.

But he rolls it wide...

England are all over the place!

No Rodri, no problem!

It takes Spain just little over a minute of the second half to open the scoring, and my word, what a goal it is.

Spain's two wonderkid wingers combine to send Spaniards across the world wild.

Lamine Yamal drives into the area, and rolls it across to Nico Williams on the left of the area, he is in miles of space and smashes it across Jordan Pickford.

England will have to come from behind again!

Rodri has not come out for the second half...

That is a monster blow for Spain, the influence he has on this side is huge. He is replaced by Real Sociedad's Martnn Zubimendi.

That is a major boost for England.

Anyway, we are back underway in Berlin. A massive 45 minutes to come.

Harry Kane has been really struggling tonight.

There have been question marks over him and whether he should start for a long time now.

He is the captain, but he doesn't seem to fit England's style of play at the moment.

He looks leggy and is making no runs. Miles off it.

Ollie Watkins will give England the energy up top, maybe it's time for him to be the super sub again?

Gary Neville, former England defender, speaking about Luke Shaw on ITV1:

Defensively he will be really happy against Yamal. He has had one of his quieter first halves. England have been poor in possession but Shaw has been strong, he has become a really good.

Check out just what it was like in the stands moments before England kicked off against Spain in this video from Berlin.

Bouncing is an understatement!

England may not have been at their best that half, but Jude Bellingham has been a standout.

Here are his stats from Sofascore, not bad:

• Most duels won (8/13)
• Most tackles made (4)
• Joint-most defensive actions (6)
• Most fouls suffered (2)
• Highest Sofascore Rating (7.3)

This was the best chance of the half for either side and it came just moments before the break.

Phil Foden does well to get to the ball, but it's a comfortable stop for Unai Simon.

The fact that this is deemed the best chance tells you all you need to know.

Chris Sutton, It's All Kicking Off! co-host, on BBC Radio 5 Live:

Gareth and England will go in and think it is job done. They have stifled Spain and they have stopped them from getting any decent chances on Pickford's goal - it's all to play for.

There goes the whistle.

To avoid being blunt, I will say that it has not been the best final I have ever seen.

England have sat deep and allowed Spain their fair share of the ball, but the Spanish have rarely threatened with it.

Gareth Southgate will be the happier boss at the break.

They so nearly do!

Phil Foden gets on the end of the set piece at the far post and stretches to get his boot to the ball.

He manages it and directs the ball toward goal, but Unai Simon is equal to it.

The best chance of the match by far.

There will be two minutes of stoppage time at the end of this half.

England have a free-kick, can they make use of it?

I knew Kyle Walker was quick, but my word he really is rapid!

Jude Bellingham sets up Harry Kane who fires an effort that is heading toward the bottom corner.

However, Rodri is there to get an important boot in the way of it, but he takes out Aymeric Laporte in the process.

Walker then wins the ball in front of Williams after storming toward it, and wins a foul too.

Now John Stones has to do his job at the other end to stifle Alvaro Morata.

He does well to come across battle the ball out for a corner as Morata was inside the area.

A nervy moment for England.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Berlin:

At the moment this is a bitty, scrappy and largely not very good game of football. And England will be pretty happy about that.

I didn't know Joel Matip played for England? Sorry, my bad, it's John Stones.

The England defender decides to maraud up the pitch, and he does it with success driving all the way up to the edge of the area.

He tries to find Harry Kane but can't squeeze the ball through the Spanish bodies.

Spain really love a cross, don't they?

They aren't working so far, yet another ball into the box leads to nothing.

If England keep letting them send it in, one will come off.

Ronnie, I think you need to shout it louder at your dad!

Phil Foden is not looking lively today compared to how threatening he was against the Netherlands.

To be fair to Foden, half of this side looks like they are struggling to get into their groove.

Phil Foden's influencer son Ronnie is leading the Three Lions' army of cubs tonight cheering on England.

The five-year-old - who has a staggering four million followers on Instagram - was snapped cheering on his father, 24.

Wearing an England shirt, the youngster was seen holding a home-made sign saying: 'Bring it home daddy!'

Aymeric Laporte is screaming for a penalty...

I mean, he does have a point as Declan Rice pulls him to the ground during a corner.

But the referee and VAR are having none of it.

This game is not flowing whatsoever, it has more breaks than a tennis match.

Phil Foden is now tying his laces.

Come on, get this match back on track again!

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

Half an hour in and England have done OK. Stones and Shaw have been very good. They've grown into it as a team but Kane is a problem, again. He looks heavy-legged and it's breaking down when he gets it. More needed from Foden, too.

Oooooft, that's a nasty challenge from Dani Olmo.

The Spaniard raises his boot into the chest of Declan Rice as he tries to win the ball.

Unsurprisingly, he gets shown a yellow for it.

The England fans are certainly enjoying themselves, despite the game they are watching not being the best.

Every chant inside the stadium is coming from the Three Lions supporters.

Are we sure we aren't at Wembley...

It feels like the stadium holds its breath when Spain move through the gears.

Luckily for England, Marc Guehi just does enough to ensure they can't hurt them as Lamine Yamal looks to cause trouble.

I must admit, this feels like a game of chess... and not the best one.

The new Prime Minister is among the crowd at Berlin's Olympiastadion supporting Gareth Southgate's men.

He was pictured with Lisa Nandy, Britain's new Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport.

We have our first booking of the final and it goes to the England captain.

Harry Kane loses the ball and tries to make up for it by lunging in on Fabian Ruiz, but the tackle is poor.

A deserved yellow.

Spain are paying England so high, and it pays off for the first time.

Phil Foden is the guilty party in starting a Spain attack as he gives the ball away just outside his own box.

The ball ends up with Lamine Yamal, but his effort is poor.

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

I had concerns about Shaw before the game, but he has started very well here.

England are winning so many tackles, it's impressive.

Luke Shaw has been piling into them and is yet to lose a battle.

Now Bukayo Saka fancies a tackle himself, and he wins it of course. Crunching football.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Berlin:

England are playing Premier League football here. Longer balls. Win second balls. Get up the field that way. It’s not the worst idea and they will be happy with this start.

Jordan Pickford has not been caused too many problems so far, if any.

Dani Carvajal tries to whip in a cross toward Alvaro Morata, but it's easy for Pickford to collect.

Not too many chances in this game...

Aadam Patel, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

That’s the first time England have managed to get into a threatening position and these are promising signs. Spain may have the bulk of the ball but the way England are moving it whenever they get possession is causing a few problems.

England finally cause Spain some problems.

Jude Bellingham starts the move off brilliantly in the middle of the park and they end up working the ball to Kyle Walker on the right.

The full-back tries to pull the ball back in the box but it's cleared for a corner. Nothing comes from it.

Much brighter from England.

We have our first chance of the game, and it's a half-chance for Spain.

the resulting corner ends up at the feet of Robin le Normand, but he can't wrap his foot around the ball.

It fails to trouble Jordan Pickford.

What a tackle that is from John Stones!

Nico Williams drives into the area and tries some fancy stepovers to try and get around the Man City man.

Stones isn't having it, though. he slides in on the Athletic Bilbao man and gets the ball cleanly.

Jude Bellingham has struggled to get on the ball so far, but with his first real touch of it, he wins a foul.

It's not a very good set piece, though, and Marc Guehi is penalised for a push.

Not the best of starts... but not the worst.

England are finding it tough to get out of their own half at the moment, Spain are having all the ball.

Though they are yet to be threatening, England won't want to sit back too deeply.

Kyle Walker does well to knick the ball away from Nico Williams before Declan Rice sweeps it up.

This formation change has taken me a little by surprise, I have to admit.

It's a strange decision to have Jude Bellingham as a left-winger, but I guess it means Phil Foden gets to stay central.

So far, Luke Shaw is putting in some strong challenges. A good sign for the Three Lions.

England seem happy to let Spain have the lion's share of possession in the early stages.

It seems England have decided to switch to a four at the back, with Jude Bellingham on the left of a 4-2-3-1 formation.

Here we go then...

We started with 24 teams four weeks ago, now we have two.

Will it finally come home for England, or will Spain reign supreme 12 years on from their last triumph?

England get the final underway!

Wow, an enormous roar engulfs the stadium as the two sides arise from the tunnel.

And my word, the England national anthem is belted out by all the Three Lions fans in the stadium.

I've got goosebumps. I'm not lying, I really have.

Spain go next with their anthem and the joyous track is chanted to by the Spanish fans. It's a lovely little tune.

The waiting is almost over...

Nekk, Bournemouth: COME ON ENGLAND! I pray tonight!

Anonymous: Spain to win 2-1

Ian, UK: Come on England, you can do it!

Prince William and his 10-year-old son, George, have arrived in Berlin ahead of kick-off.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Berlin:

Here’s a strange thought. If England were to, say, squeak this 1-0 they could end with winning the tournament without having a single player in the Euro 2024 composite team. Not that they would remotely care…

There are 10 minutes until kick-off, I repeat, there are 10 minutes until kick-off.

Everybody, strap yourselves in, it will be one hell of a bumpy ride this evening. It always is with England.

I'm finding it hard to control my excitement!

The closing ceremony has begun, and shock, there are a lot of fireworks.

After just under a month of pulsating action, Euro 2024 is nearly at its end.

What a memorable summer. I will be sad to see it go.

Still, there is one monumental match still to play...

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

There are far more England fans here than there are Spain. There is one strong section of red, but that apart it's a whitewash. This should feel like a home fixture.

Gareth Southgate, England manager, speaking to BBC One:

I appreciate the history and responsibility of it. I wasn’t certain I ever wanted to do it, I’m really pleased I have. Some things are worth more than football.

We are in an extreme environment. I have got less worried about things going wrong as I got older. I have stepped in the other direction. We have been close to taking Jude [Bellingham] off in every game, he looks like he has run his race every time I look at him but he can produce special moments.

One of the proudest things is I have discovered resilience that I didn’t know I had. I don’t know what to feel at the moment. I am in a place where it might define me for others, but not for myself.

The atmosphere inside the Olympiastadion is electric.

Why? Because the Three Lions fans are singing their hearts out in the build-up to the first whistle.

'It's Coming Home' is being belted out regularly, and they have also done a rendition of 'Vindaloo'.

The vibes are cracking.

How are your nerves, England fans?

We are less than 30 minutes away from kick-off, and the England players are going through their final preparations.

They don't look too stressed, which is a good sign if you are backing the Three Lions.

I bet their stomachs will be churning some 8pm, though.

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Berlin:

Our sports news correspondent Mike Keegan has been saying on our Its All Kicking Off! podcast all week that this would feel like an England home game and he was right.

I would say England fans outnumber the Spanish by about 5-1. It really is quite something to see. Myself and Chief Sports Writer Oliver Holt seem to be sitting in the Spanish section of the press box, though, so anything could happen between now and 11pm.

The records just keep on tumbling with this teen sensation!

Lamine Yamal will write his name into the history books yet again when the whistle blows for kick-off at 8pm.

The winger will become the youngest footballer to ever appear in a men's European Championship final.

He only turned 17 yesterday...

Gary Neville, former England defender, speaking about Luke Shaw starting on ITV1:

I think the midfield will have to be compact. The key point is Spain’s. For England we have been talking about balance, we have been talking about Kieran Trippier, and Luke gives us that balance.

It's that time now...

With less than 45 minutes until the ball starts rolling in Berlin, and with nerves cracking up by the second, it's time to get those predictions in.

Spain have won all six of their matches without penalties, it's been a fairly straightforward tournament for them.

They are clearly the favourites, England are the underdogs.

Despite that, I'm going England to win via a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw.

What do you think?

Craig Hope, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

I feel for Kieran Trippier. He's done a job for the team in a position that negates his most obvious strength - his right boot - but has done it without fuss and, for me, I think he's performed well.

Luke Shaw coming in on the left is a gamble - it's his first start since February - but it does give more balance and opens the pitch up for England. I don't think he's got a full 90 minutes in him, however. And by the way, he's up against Lamine Yamal!

It's not often a player comes in from the start for only the final.

Well, that's what Luke Shaw is doing tonight, he is making his first start of Euro 2024 in tonight's final.

In fact, he is the first person to do so in 24 years...

Sir Keir Starmer, UK Prime Minister, speaking to ITV1:

It has been an amazing 10 days to have a Labour government hit the ground running. Electoral victories do not drop from the sky, it is the same for the England manager. You do not get there through luck.

I can totally relate to Southgate, when I started they said I would not get it over the line, turn it around, Gareth starts and people say it’s not good enough, this is a fantastic squad, he is a great manager. They should be so proud, we are all proud.

The whole squad has been brilliant but to see Declan [Rice] and [Biukayo] Saka down that right-hand side, even as left back for a little while. I am very proud of those two but [also] the whole squad. There is such optimism, I have just come from London. I don’t know about a bank holiday, let’s get through the next few hours, we need to make it in an appropriate way.

Look at all the smiles on faces!

Fans have begun taking their seats at the Olympiastadion ahead of tonight's match, while some are still enjoying the sun outside.

I bet they never thought they'd get to witness their country contest a final on foreign soil.

Whatever happens, it will be a day to remember.

We now know the England side tasked with making history tonight.

Six players in tonight's line-up started on that fateful day three years ago, they won't have forgotten that feeling of coming so close.

Well, they have the chance to make things right tonight.

England have never won a trophy on foreign soil, this is their first tournament final away from the motherland.

Can they create history?

England confirm what Sami Mokbel revealed a few hours ago.

Luke Shaw comes into the starting 11 as the only change to the side that beat the Netherlands in the semi-final.

Is this the team that will end 58 years of hurt?

England Starting XI: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guehi; Saka, Rice, Mainoo, Shaw; Bellingham, Foden; Kane

Sami Mokbel, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

Jordan Henderson has driven all the way over from Amsterdam to watch his former international colleague’s date with destiny here in Berlin tonight.

The Ajax midfielder, who was left out of the England squad for Euro 2024, struggled to get flights to Germany’s capital so has taken matters into his own hands by jumping in a hire van to get here with his young children to support Gareth Southgate’s side.

It took the former Liverpool captain around eight hours to get here on the road but was determined to cheer his England team-mates on.

Excitement around the country just went up a notch.

The time for talking, and waiting, is nearly over, England have arrived for the big night ahead.

There is not a smile in sight, every player is steely-eyed with focus fully on the match.

I hope it's that and not nerves...

The Prime Minister was never going to miss this, was he?

Sir Keir Starmer is a massive football fan and he is in Berlin to cheer on the Three Lions.

As I type this, he is speaking to ITV1 about the night ahead, he is doing so with a beaming smile.

Just like all of us, he is nervous yet excited.

A certain Lamine Yamal has arrived in Berlin...

No smiles from the teen sensation, he is locked into what could be the biggest night of his life. Either way, it probably is.

I wonder what his song choice is during all of this, surely something to get the blood pumping.

All I know is it won't be 'Three Lions'.

My word, that is a thing of beauty.

The European Championship trophy is shining in the Berlin sunshine as a reminder of what's at stake this evening.

I always wonder how much effort it takes to polish such silverware, they are always spotless.

I can't even get the finger marks off my phone screen...

Excited fans sang 'Viva la vida' ahead of the Euros final clash with Spain.

Belting the lyrics 'rule the world', fans wearing England shirts and waving flags sang along with a street busker in Leicester Square.

The party is well underway!

Ian Ladyman, Mail Sport Football Editor, in Berlin:

All the stats point to a Spain victory here at this magnificent stadium. Spain, for example, scored three times in the first half of their opening game against Croatia four weeks ago.

England didn’t match that total until Jude Bellingham’s overhead kick against Slovakia in the 96th minute of their fourth game!! But none of that matters tonight. I have a hunch and it says 1-0 England.

England have embraced the drama this tournament.

Coming from behind is not something England have notoriously done in the past, but they love it now.

The Three Lions left it late against Slovakia with Jude Bellingham producing an overhead kick in the fifth minute of stoppage time to save them from defeat in the round of 16. They then won in extra time.

In the quarter-final, Bukayo Saka produced a stunner to keep them in the fight with just over 10 minutes to go after Switzerland opened the scoring.

And finally, the best of the lot.

Gareth Southgate's side went 1-0 down against the Dutch in Dortmund, but we didn't have to fear.

Harry Kane levelled it from the spot, and then Ollie Watkins provided THAT moment of magic in the 90th minute.

Never count the English out...

It's pretty strong, isn't it?

There aren't any surprises with who Luis de la Fuente has chosen to do battle for the Spanish tonight.

Her has put his trust in the players that have carried him to this final, and they have done it in style.

Pedri is the only big-name player who is absent after injury in the quarter-final against Germany.

My word has Dani Olmo done an amazing job in his place, though.

Does this team strike fear into you, England fans?

Spain have pulled the trigger early on their team news as they always do.

The starting 11 is what everybody was expecting.

Luis de la Fuente has made just two changes from their semi-final win over France.

Dani Carvajal and Robin le Normand return to action after missing the last four through suspension.

Is this the team to lift a fourth Euros for the Spanish?

Spain Starting XI: Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo; Yamal, Morata, Williams

After over a month of covering England for Mail Sport, Craig Hope has just one game to go.

But as he puts eloquently in this video 'Home feels as far away as it did 35 days ago'.

Tonight is massive for everybody involved with England, from the players to the staff, and from the fans to the media.

With Craig now all set at the Olympiastadion, here are some of his thoughts and memories of covering the Three Lions in Germany.

Give it a watch!

I knew it had been a long time... but wow.

Everybody knows how desperate England are to win a trophy, they have been waiting since that famous day in 1966.

Three years ago, they came within touching distance, but the hurt only worsened as they lost in the European Championship final to Italy on penalties.

The wait could finish tonight, but for now, they are currently fourth on the list for the longest time without an international trophy.

It's not a very good group to be a part of, and that's an understatement.

Back in England, it's not going too well for a lot of supporters...

Hundreds of rail services across large parts of Britain were cancelled on Sunday, as train drivers and staff have refused to work overtime ahead of the game.

Northern, Great Western Railway (GWR), London Northwestern Railway and West Midlands Railway have all cancelled services scheduled to run on Sunday at short notice.

Many train drivers and other crew members do not have Sunday working included in their contracts, with numerous operators often relying on them volunteering to work extra paid shifts to run timetabled services on that day.

GWR passengers have been advised not to attempt to travel after 6pm on Sunday, with services expected to be severely disrupted.

The operator said 'sickness and England reaching the final of the Euros (is) likely to reduce the number of colleagues available for overtime shifts'.

Looks like many won't be travelling far today.

It may still be more than two hours until kick-off, but fans are already making their way into the ground.

Just look at that second photo, it's a sea of red and white with both sets of supporters en route.

You just know it's going to be rocking later.

Luke Shaw will have a big task on his hands tonight...

He may only be 17 (just about), but my word is Lamine Yamal taking this European Championship by storm.

Yamal is already becoming one of the best wingers in the world, his breakthrough in this tournament has been extraordinary.

Not many full-backs this tournament have been able to deal with the teen's directness and dribbling ability. many have been torn apart.

So it's fair to say that Shaw will have his hands full for most of the evening. A major test of his fitness.

Can he handle it?

Nigel, Devon: Why wouldn’t you start a player against one of the best teams in the world who has been injured all season and played about three games! Makes total sense!

Iain, Richmond: I think this is a bit of a gamble. He’s not played much recently also Spain's wingers have lots of pace which could expose his match fitness.

Anonymous: Why change a winning formula?

How times can change, eh?

Just over a week ago, fans' confidence in England was dwindling due to the displays being put on against the likes of Slovakia.

That confidence is back now, that's for sure.

Famns in London are fairly optimistic that it will in fact come home this evening. Will they be right?

No signs to be seen here...

England fans let off smoke flares outside Trafalgar Square in central London in the final countdown towards the match against Spain.

Crowds were seen with red and white flares and England flags as they anticipated kick-off in less than three hours.

Can anyone translate this sign for me?

Actually, don't bother, I think the imagery is pretty self-explanatory on this one.

I'm guessing if they have this sign-up, fans have been sticking flares where they shouldn't on several occasions.

I mean, each to their own.

We love a good omen, don't we?

Well, we have a cracking one regarding England and their form at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.

It's fair to say, it's very good...

The Three Lions are unbeaten last five encounters at the stadium, winning four of them.

England's last visit came in 2016, and it was a memorable one. The Three Lions came from 2-0 to win 3-2 with goals from Harry Kane, Jamie Vardy, and Eric Dier.

How they would love this fortune to continue.

What a magnificent stadium the Olympiastadion is.

Just look at it in all its glory, truly a sight to behold. Thousands of England fans will be lucky enough to be inside of it later.

At the moment, though, it's eerily quiet less than three hours before kick-off.

It won't be for long...

The whole country will be behind Luke Shaw tonight, even more so now that he is starting.

Shaw's old academy coach, Jason Dodd, has shared a special message for the full-back ahead of the final.

What a journey, and it could have its greatest moment this evening.

Sami Mokbel, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

This is a big call. Perhaps one of, if not, the biggest of Gareth Southgate’s reign. The knock suffered by Kieran Trippier is a factor here. But the balance Southgate has craved, he has now in Shaw. Let’s see.

A penny for Kieran Trippier's thoughts...

The Newcastle man has been playing out of position all tournament to cover for the injured Shaw.

He has had his ups and downs in terms of performances, but without him, where would England be?

While it is understandable as to why Luke Shaw will start this final, it still must be hard for Trippier to take.

After six starts, he is set to start tonight on the bench.

Oliver Todd, Mail Sport, in Berlin:

It’s a little messy down near Friedrichstrasse in Berlin, where England fans have been gathering around an Irish pub for the last 24 hours. Crates upon crates of beer have been brought in from neighbouring shops - and the police are keeping a close eye but there’s no sign of any real trouble.

We all know where we were when this goal went in.

If you were to ask anybody who was going to score the first goal in the Euro 2020 final three years ago, virtually no one would have said Luke Shaw.

But just two minutes in, Shaw latched onto the end of Kieran Trippier's cross to lash home. The limbs were pure madness.

It's a moment that will live long in the memory of every England fan, even though the Three Lions did go on to lose.

Is this why Gareth Southgate has brought Shaw back in?

Anonymous: I think Shaw starting is good news. Yes, it will maybe help Spain going forward, but it looks like England will attack more from the left now. Bold call from Gareth and I hope it is rewarded with an England win.

Please accompany your comments with your name if you would like to be included in our blog.

Is Luke Shaw ready? It's a very fair question.

Yes, he played 45 minutes against the Netherlands with no problems, but to start a final after all that time out is a massive call.

He couldn't even manage a minute until the last eight... but now he starts in the final.

Shaw is by far England's best left-back, though, so if he is fit and ready, he is the best man to put out there.

Are you happy with Gareth Southgate's decision?

This really is a shock, isn't it...

It seemed nearly certain that Gareth Southgate would stay faithful to Kieran Trippier who had started on the left-hand side in all six games this tournament.

But no, Sami Mokbel has revealed otherwise.

On a monumental day for England, Southgate has put his trust in Shaw who had been out for five months with injury before the quarter-final.

To read more on the story, click below:

Massive, massive news coming from the England camp!

Mail Sport's Sami Mokbel has revealed that Luke Shaw will make his first start in 148 days in tonight's final.

After coming on in both the quarter-final win over Switzerland, and then the dramatic late victory over the Netherlands, Shaw's time is now.

A big boost for Gareth Southgate and the Three Lions.

Spain's path to Berlin has been far from straightforward.

Luis de la Fuente's side were handed a very tough group, they had to face the holders Italy, and also 2018 World Cup finalists, Croatia.

They made light work out of both of them...

They then faced both Germany and France in the knockout stages and dispatched both giant nations.

Croatia, Italy, and France are all in the top 10 of the FIFA World Rankings. England only faced one.

To win this competition, you have to beat the best teams in European football to lift the trophy.

Spain have done that... until now at least.

Ah, James, you have me blushing...

It's great to be here. I can't remember a game with this much hype in a very long time - the whole country is buzzing.

Walking on the streets of London earlier re-affirmed to me the collective support the nation is giving the Three Lions.

Even on the tube to the office, my carriage was rammed full of fans on their way to pubs, beer gardens, and maybe even stadiums, to watch the match.

We are less than four hours away from kick-off, but there is a lot still to get through.

Time to get cracking!

That's all from me but fear not as you are now being handed over to the ever-reliable Harry Bamforth.

He'll be with you for the rest of the evening and will provide more of his brilliant analysis that we've come to expect throughout Euro 2024.

If you've been on social media in the last 48 hours, then Jolie Sharpe's face probably looks familiar to you.

Sharpe went viral after being interviewed by Mail Sport after the semi-final victory over the Netherlands - with the video accruing over 40 million views on X.

Now, she's provided one final message to the Three Lions side and Gareth Southgate ahead of kick-off tonight.

It's fair to say that if you wanted to witness tonight's match in person, you were always going to have to fork out a pretty penny.

And that certainly seems to be the case for these supporters - who parted with up to £2000 for a ticket to the match.

Mail Sport have been on the ground in Germany to get the latest from the England supporters.

Two England supporters have revealed they drove through the night from the UK to get to Berlin for the final without even getting a ticket.

'We set off at 12 o'clock on Friday night, and we got here at nine o'clock yesterday', the Yorkshireman said.

Asked whether he had a ticket, he glumly said: 'No, I don't want one. I can't afford one.

'I've come for the atmosphere, to soak it all up.'

The Geordie, meanwhile, said he and his mate drove 'all the way from Newcastle and Sunderland' without picking up any tickets.

'It took eight hours to Dover, then we went to Amsterdam for the night, stayed in Amsterdam for 20-36 hours, then we travelled up to Berlin last night', he said.

Well, the England squad may be playing away from home but it'll certainly feel as though they're in their own backyard with 50,000 Three Lions fans set to be in attendance.

According to Spanish journalist Guillem Balague, in comparison, Spain will have just 12,000 fans at the Olympiastadion.

This is due to UEFA opting to reward those that have travelled more often with the national side - with England the beneficaries.

The Mercedes star - fresh off the back of his win at the Austrian GP - has confirmed he's heading to Germany for the Euro 2024 final.

The British F1 driver will be joined by girlfriend Carmen Montero Mundt - who will be supporitng the opposition this afternoon.

Just take a look at the wild scenes in Leicester Square at the moment.

It's a sea of red and white shirts, with flare smoke filling the air in the English capital. And we're still over four hours from kick-off!

As well as England supporters, there are plenty of Spain fans filling the streets of Berlin at the moment.

In a bizarre but hilarious series of images, one group of fans can be seen imitating a bull in the middle of the street as their antics get underway.

As well as their matador-inspired fun, there are also hundreds of red and yellow flags and wigs on show in the German capital.

The pre-match party is in full flow in the German capital now as thousands of England fans begin preparing for tonight's game.

There's a retro shirt nearly everywhere you look, as well as the odd fan boasting face-paint of the England flag.

After weeks of build-up, filled with up and downs, it all feels like it's culminating into a historic night for English football... but is it?

There's been plenty of impressive performances throughout Euro 2024.

However, it's hard to argue against Spain's Lamine Yamal, 16, claiming the Young Player of the Tournament award - given his sensational form.

Meanwhile, the Player of the Tournament award is open - with the likes of Cody Gakpo, Bukayo Saka and Rodri all in contention.

We've already done one post showing you some pictures of the London streets currently - but now we have a video!

In a clip posted onto TikTok, hundreds of England supporters can be seen singing and dancing in London ahead of kick-off.

Good luck to anyone who planned on doing their shopping today!

He may have been defeated in his last fight for a title but that hasn't stopped Tyson Fury from cheering on England in their bid to win one.

The Gypsy King took to social media on Sunday afternoon to share a supportive message for Gareth Southgate's side.

The heavyweight star even told the Three Lions to 'smash the Spaniards' in Euro 2024's showpiece event.

Luis de la Fuente's record as Spain manager is impressive to say the least.Twenty games, 16 wins, two losses, two draws.

Freely they score and seldom they concede. And all on three hours' sleep, he claims. Five on a good night.

Welcome to the serene and sleep-deprived world of Luis de la Fuente, a manager who has risen from relative obscurity to take Spain to the cusp of recapturing their halcyon days.

Click below to read more...

TV presenter Ben Shephard is also among those getting into the Euros spirit after sharing a picture alongside Chris Kamara.

The duo posed with a smile - while wearing England tops - before heading out to watch the game later this afternoon.

Interestingly, Shephard appears to be wearing his own shirt from Soccer Aid from back in 2016.

Phil Foden's eldest son, Ronnie also known as 'El Wey', is on his way to Berlin ahead of tonight's final.

The five-year-old shared a picture of himself - with his four million followers - aboard a private jet heading to Germany on Sunday.

Will Harry Kane be walking away with the Euro 2024 Golden Boot?

Well, he's currently competing with FIVE other players who could also end up being the top goalscorer in the competition.

Currently, Kane is tied with Cody Gakpo, Dani Olmo, Ivan Schranz, Jamal Musiala and Georges Mikautadze.

It's not just Koepka who's showed their support for England ahead of the final.

Tommy Fleetwood also wore an England shirt ahead of the final round of the Scottish Open and made the prediction that it is in fact coming home.

He might not have a horse in the race at Euro 2024 but that hasn't stopped Brooks Koepka from some expert trolling.

The American was paired with Spanish duo Jon Rahm and Sergio Garcia on Sunday morning and made sure to let them know where his allegiances lies in the Euro 2024 final.

The final might be held in Berlin but you'd have thought it was at Wembley given the current scenes in the English capital.

Thousands of England supporters have flocked the streets of Leicester Square and Trafalgar Square as they build-up to kick-off.

Plenty of chants have been heard and a fair amount of flares have been let off among the sea of Three Lions supporters.

Well, at least one England WAG is after Conor Gallagher's partner Aine May Kennedy confirmed she's heading to Berlin.

In a heartfelt post on her Instagram, Kennedy wrote: 'En route to Berlin ❤️🏴󠁧󠁢󠁥󠁮󠁧󠁿🙏🏼 We are all So proud of you @conorgallagher92'.

It didn't take long for the England star to reply with a series of heart emojis in the comment section, as he gears up for the final.

Despite torrential rainfall and thunderstrikes during Euro 2024, luckily, the Olympiastadion is looking glorious this afternoon.

The pitch looks to be in perfect condition and with a sunny forecast throughout the day, it's set to remain that way.

The only thing that's missing is the thousands of white shirts filling out the stadium and a courageous Three Lions side ready to win.

England fans delivered mixed answers when asked who they prefer between Spain wonderkid Lamine Yamal and darts sensation Luke Littler ahead of the Euro 2024 final.

Yamal made European history on Tuesday night when he became the youngest scorer in the competition's history.

The Spain winger, aged just 16 years and 362 days, broke that record in style by finding the net with a stunning long-range strike against France.

Click below to read more...

The fourteen-time PDC World Champion Phil 'The Power' Taylor has sent his support to England ahead of tonight's final.

It's fair to describe his message as 'short and sweet' - as the 63-year-old had a swig of beer as he addressed the Three Lions.

The Diary Room has been a vital gateway into the England camp for supporters back home and now Gareth Southgate has taken to the hotseat.

The Three Lions boss sat down to discuss their tournament so far, the final and his tenure in charge.

Be sure to check it out below!

After stopping off at England's training camp earlier this month, Ed Sheeran has wished the side well ahead of the Euro 2024 final.

Sheeran leads a long list of celebrities who have showed their support - including the likes of Kate Beckinsale and Amanda Holden.

The singer-songwriter who was spotted in the stands at the semi-final, said: 'Everything is coming together at the right point'.

Click below to read more...

Debate over the Three Lions tactics has been rife throughout Euro 2024 and for the final it'll be no different.

As Mail Sport's Martin Keown says, England will need to have the perfect gameplan in order to overcome Luis de la Fuente's side.

The former defender also highlighted one player that the Three Lions will need to nullify at the Olympiastadion.

Click below to read more...

As well as Berlin, there are plenty of Three Lions fans showing their support for the side all the way in Benidorm!

Supporters from across the country wished Gareth Southgate's boys the best of luck and announced England would 'take over Benidorm' if they won.

Expectation of the 'battle for Benidorm' has been growing in this popular holiday resort where British and Spanish families come to relax.

Click below to read more...

There are plenty of England supporters out in full force ahead of kick-off at the Olympiastadion.

Hundreds of Three Lions supporters have been spotted in the German capital with face-paint, bucket hats and even a fake trophy prior to the final.

Will they be as cheerful at the end of the match? Let's hope so!

Unless you've been living under a rock in the past 48 hours, you'll be aware of the fan who went viral in a Mail Sport interview.

Jolie Sharpe, 22, has been watched more than 40 million times after being asked for her views about manager Gareth Southgate by Mail Sport's Aadam Patel after the Three Lions' semi-final win against the Netherlands.

Her positive comments where she praised him and told him to 'ignore the haters' sparked an outpouring of love online.

Now, Sharpe has gone on to make a bold prediction for tonight's final.

Click below to read more...

There's been plenty of debate about how England and Spain could line-up at 8pm and - as per information from the Three Lions camp - we have our expected line-ups for tonight.

England line-up: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guéhi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Trippier; Foden, Bellingham and Kane.

Spain line-up: Unai Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Morata and Nico Williams.

If you haven't been listening to our Euros Daily podcast series, not to worry. You're more than welcome to jump on the bandwagon and join us for this last leg of the journey...

On today's episode, two of our expert colleagues, Ian Ladyman and Mike Keegan, share their views on tonight's highly-anticipated final.

You can find a taste of that here and if you like what you find, do go on over and give it a listen on whatever platform you use.

It's All Kicking Off is our regular football podcast series which has been running for the past year, so please stay with us beyond the Euros as well if you're a fan.

The Three Lions have been spotted leaving their hotel in Berlin.

Mail Sport's own Ian Ladyman has taken this video of the England coaches outside the Ritz-Carlton as they prepare to head off.

Plenty of fans had already began gathering in the hopes of catching a glimpse of the Three Lions ahead of kick-off.

The 1966 World Cup winner - and hat-trick hero in the final - has sent his support to England ahead of kick-off.

To find the last meeting between these two sides, you have to go back to a Nations League clash in 2018 - where England triumphed 3-2.

The Three Lions mustered just three shots on goal and had just 26 per cent possession but still manage to claim a win on the day.

Marcus Rashford and Raheem Sterling (who scored a brace) were on target in the first-half before Spain fired back after the break.

Could England's previous victory prove to be a good omen ahead of tonight's final? Only time will tell.

Lamine Yamal has been the toast of Spain - and Europe - for his scintillating performances this tournament, and in particular for that cracking goal against France in the semi-finals.

But did you know?

• What celebration he will deploy if he scores against England - and why
• What school tasks he has been having to balance his European journey with?
• The records he is breaking?
• What commcercial deals he has?
• What manager Luis de la Fuente has to say about him?

All this, and so much more, in our two mega guides to him ahead of the final.

'Anything England can do, we can do better' appears to be Spain's motto in regard to their social media team.

Similarly to the Three Lions, the official Spanish X account has shared an emotional video in a bid to boost their players' confidence.

The post reads: 'Let's dream, live, sing, laugh and feel together. It's our time, we are rebels and... GO'

As we close in on kick-off at the Olympiastadion, there's no doubt that the England players' nerves will be building.

And, in a bid to calm those nerves, the Three Lions stars have been sent some heartwarming message from those who know the players best pen.

From former team-mates to academy coaches - there's plenty of different perspectives on offer.

Click below to read more...

Prior to kick-off, our friends at SofaScore have provided this neat graphic to help put England and Spain's Euro 2024 stats head-to-head.

Luis de la Fuente's side boast a better goal difference, big chances created per-game and shots per-game compared to the Three Lions.

However, Gareth Southgate's side have allowed less big chances and shots from their opponents - while maintaining a slightly higher possession average to Spain.

It's fair to say that Luis de la Fuente's side have been the team of the tournament at Euro 2024.

The performances have been lit up by the displays of teenagers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams - who have shown experience beyond their age in the competition.

A dominant group stage display saw them pick up maximum points - with five goals scored and zero conceded.

The three-time Euros champions continued their form in the knockout stages as they cruised past Georgia, Germany and France with ease.

Their four minute turn-around against France in the semi-finals was particularly impressive - as Yamal scored arguably the goal of the tournament to kick-start the comeback.

There's been plenty of debate about how England and Spain could line-up at 8pm and - as per information from the Three Lions camp - we have our expected line-ups for tonight.

England line-up: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guéhi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Trippier; Foden, Bellingham and Kane.

Spain line-up: Unai Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Morata and Nico Williams.

There's one thing being confident for the final but this fan has shown a whole new level of belief in the Three Lions!

Dan Thomas, 29, from Swindon, Wiltshire, thinks England will claim the coveted title of Euro winners and defeat Spain in Berlin this evening and has dedicated this with a permanent message.

The data consultant spent two and a half hours getting the UEFA European Championship trophy tattooed on his leg at the Reign Barbers and Tattoos parlour in Swindon on Thursday - the day after England defeated the Netherlands and secured their place in the final.

Click below to read more...

It's fair to say that the Spanish media have come out firing ahead of this evening's clash in Berlin.

Newspapers in Spain are confident about the prospect of Spain winning a 'historic' fourth European Championship title, taking them clear of Germany for the outright record.

The Barcelona based newspaper Sport believes highlighted the expectations for Spain and England as being a 'big difference' between the two sides in their preview for the final.

Click below to read more...

Man United's new minority owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has delivered a message to England star Luke Shaw ahead of tonight's final.

The United defender has battled for fitness since joining up with Gareth Southgate's side and took to the pitch for the first time during England's quarter-final against Switzerland.

Now, Ratcliffe has shared a hilarious pre-match message which I'm sure will be echoed by all Red Devils supporters.

The Three Lions came into the tournament with high expectations, given the illustrious squad which Gareth Southgate has had at his disposal.

However, a tricky group stage campaign - where they won just one match - threw doubt over their credentials as tournament winners.

But England have battled hard in the knockout stages.

Jude Bellingham's dramatic last minute equaliser against Slovakia in the last-16, to send the tie to extra-time, being the standout moment.

Harry Kane ended up winning the match with a header to send Southgate's side to the quarter-finals.

They then faced Switzerland, who's impressive performance against Italy struck fear into some England supporters.

However, the Three Lions came up trumps, this time on penalties, after a 1-1 draw in regular time.

Finally, they took on the Netherlands in the semi-finals and we all know how that turned out.

After Xavi Simons gave them the lead, England fired back through Kane and susbtitute Ollie Watkins to book a place in Berlin's final.

Ahead of kick-off, England captain Harry Kane struck a pose in the side's kit for tonight's final.

Snapped by Mail Sport's Kevin Quigley, the Three Lions skipper let out a roar in anticipation barely 24 hours out from kick off, in the biggest game of his career.

There is somewhat an irony that Kane could win his first trophy on Sunday with England. When he and his side fell short at Wembley in 2021 against Italy, it felt club success would come first.

Click below to read more...

England legend Alan Shearer has weighed in on this evening's match and highlighted a key midfield battle where he believes the game could be won.

Speaking to Betfair, Shearer said: 'There are going to be several key battles on Sunday. Rodri is without doubt the best midfielder in the world at what he does, I don’t think there’s anyone better than him. He plays a huge part in everything that Spain and Man City do.

'Also, if you look at their two wingers with Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal on either side, the key battles will be those two against England's full-backs. There will be so many brilliant individual battles all over the pitch and it'll probably take a piece of brilliance from someone to win it.

'For Yamal, a 16-year-old to even be on the pitch is amazing but for a 16-year-old to stick one in the top corner and make it look so easy like he did against France just isn't normal. Dani Olmo will also be looking to go and get the golden boot, he has been wonderful for Spain. They have some great players but so have we.

'Kobbie Mainoo got the better of Rodri in the FA Cup final and he's been sensational for England at Euro 2024. He’s looked so comfortable in that midfield and for someone so young and without a lot of experience, the way he's performed for England you'd never know that he hasn't been in the game that long'.

Prior to kick-off tonight, Mail Sport's Matt Barlow and Craig Hope have ranked the players' forms going into the match in Berlin.

Spain's stars such as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams have lit up the tournament in attack with Man City's Rodri proving vital in midfield.

Meanwhile, England possess the quality to cause any side problems on their day - with Bukayo Saka and Kobbie Mainoo that standouts.

Click below to read more...

According to German outlet BILD, 'the airport in Berlin is bursting at the seams' as fans flock in to the capital.

They claim that due to the sheer numbers of supporters flying in, there 'was a traffic jam in the sky' and two planes had to be redirected to Leipzig.

In a bid to avoid such delays, other English fans took scheduled flights to Poland, Holland and Belgium before travelling to Berlin.

Ahead of kick-off in Berlin, England have shared this fantastic video onto their social media channels documenting their run through the Euros.

From Jude Bellingham's dramatic equaliser against Slovakia to Ollie Watkins' superb substitute cameo - it's been special.

So, whack some headphones on and give this a watch.

There's been plenty of discussion about how both England and Spain could line-up this evening and, as per information from the Three Lions camp, we have our probable line-ups for tonight.

England line-up: Pickford; Walker, Stones, Guéhi; Saka, Mainoo, Rice, Trippier; Foden, Bellingham and Kane.

Spain line-up: Unai Simon; Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella; Rodri, Fabian, Dani Olmo; Lamine Yamal, Morata and Nico Williams.

The task of delivering a speech to England's stars prior to kick-off is not one that many would want - but it's one Gareth Southgate will have to do.

However, the Three Lions boss has already addressed his stars with a passionate message and it's sure to get them fired up before the game.

'I don't believe in fairytales but I am a believer in dreams and we have big dreams but you have to make those things happen'.

Click below to read more...

Today is the big day.

England take on Spain in the Euro 2024 final this evening and we'll be bringing you updates, news and more throughout the day as we build-up to kick-off.

The fans are already out in Berlin as they prepare for the big game and we'll also be providing the best pictures and videos of their pre-match antics.

So stick with us as we count down to kick-off at 8pm!