Assisting the equaliser, and scoring a phenomenal individual goal to give Spain a two-goal lead, all without misplacing a single pass against Georgia is a testament to Nico Williams’ talents.
His impressive display in Spain’s last 16 comeback win makes him the only player on Euro records, since 1980, to score, assist, and maintain a 100% pass completion rate in a game he started.
His first goal of the tournament came at a crucial time for Spain, giving them a comfortable lead against a Georgia side who looked threatening on the attack.
Ruiz released Williams with a ball from deep in the Spanish half, sending Spain on the attack in which the no.17 was able to hit the inside roof of the net to give Luis de la Fuente’s side a safety net in the game.
One of the younger players in the Spanish side, Williams made his debut in September 2022, in a 2-1 defeat to Switzerland, and featured in the Qatar World Cup later that year.
At just 21 years old, his impact within the Spanish side is one that will continue to grow at many more major tournaments.
Both Williams and youngster Lamine Yamal celebrate their birthdays before the final, with Yamal being another talent that will no doubt continue to grow on both the club and international stage.
Yamal’s six created chances in Spain’s last 16 tie was the most by any player under 21 in a Euro knockout game, yet another indication of his attacking influence.
Despite this, he is yet to score in his Euro campaign and will be looking to change this after a tough quarter-final against Germany. The home nation has had a strong campaign so far, topping their group and knocking Denmark out in the Round of 16 before taking Spain right to the last minute of their thrilling quarter-final on Friday evening.
Nico Williams was part of the Spanish squad in the 2022 World Cup and came on as a substitute in their 1-1 group-stage draw with the Germans.
As for Lamine Yamal, he will have to continue his impressive form to be the difference in the semi-final. La Roja take on France in a blockbuster tie, and the explosive wingers on either flank will be dangerous to a near-perfect French defence.
With both teams being in threatening form, the quarter-final tie was one that was eagerly awaited, with Spain being the only side to have won every one of their games at the tournament so far.
The incredible pace of Williams and Yamal down the flanks could be decisive for Spain as they look to breach the French defence who have only conceded from a re-taken Poland penalty.
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