Spain 2-1 USSR Euro 64 Final

The final of the 1964 European championships, played in Madrid was viewed by a large crowd of 120,000. It was an unchanged Spanish said taking on the defending champions. Spain took an early advantage in the sixth minute when an Ivanov pass, intercepted by Suarez, was assisted to the unmarked Pereda in the middle who directed the ball into the empty net. Only one minute later, the Spanish goalkeeper, Iribar, allowed a weak shot from Khusainov to dip below his diving body, into the goal. Both teams continued to play the game cautiously due to the horrendous rain. Pereda came near to putting the Spaniards back in front when Yashin acrobatically saved a point blank range shot. The Russian defence seemed troubled at times. In the 84th minute, Pereda crossed the ball from the touchline for Marcelino to score with a lovely diving header. This was the Russians first ever defeat in the European nations cup. The hosts Spain were the winners of Euro 64.

France 2-0 Spain – Euro 84 Final

France started the final impressively as Giresse smashed in a shot within the opening minute. The match was more or less even through out the first half. As the second half commenced the French grew in confidence. In the 56th minute, France were handed a free kick on the edge of the box and Michel Platini bended his shot around the Spaniards defensive wall and scored, many believed that the keeper could have done better however France were now in complete control. France stumbled with five minutes left as Le Roux was dismissed for a second book able offence. Spain went in search for a leveler; however seconds prior the final whistle Tigana cleared the ball as practically the entire of the Spanish team moved into the French territory and Bellone run on to it and chipped the ball over the advancing Arconada to ensure France’s triumph.