Final. France-Spain. Before the match all media, except the Spanish, unquestionably favoured France. No need to play even – the winner was known. And what was there to think about? France played at home, had an extra day to rest, had the best midfield in the world, played exciting football. The only thing to speculate on was Amoros – he was back from suspension, was Hidalgo going to put him in the team? Spain had serious handicap – Gordillo and Maceda were suspended. Both got yellow cards in the semi-final and both carried another yellow card, from the suspect last qualification match with Malta. So long ago… but UEFA already ruled that rules are rules. Munoz largely joked – he told journalists that he already had beaten Hidalgo, so no problem doing it again. Referring to… 1956, when Real Madrid won the 1st European Champions Cup after beating Stade Reims. He also saw advantage in the role of the underdog – nobody considered Spain a favourite before the finals, nobody thought them favourite now, just as well.
The beginning of the final answered all asked and unasked questions – Amoros was not in the French squad, Hidalgo chose Domergue, who already prove his worth (eventually, Amoros played in the second half). Once again the attack was changed – this time Lacombe and Bellone. This was 4-4-2 scheme again, but with a little twist – Bellone was both a striker and midfielder. Thus, Hidalgo had an option to saturate even further his midfield line, increasing it to 5 men. Or move back Bellone and switch him with Platini as a second striker. Eventually, it came to 4-5-1 – in the second half, when Lacombe was replaced with Genghini. Munoz, however, changed his tactics, choosing personal marking: Urqiaga was attached to Lacombe, Camacho to Platini, and Senor – to Giresse. Initiatlly, the approach worked – Spain started defensively, leaving little space to the French.
France was attacking, but personal marking was not what the French stars were comfortable with. The game was good, but clearly not at the exciting level of France-Denmark. France looked dominant, but unable to score and now the joking words of Munoz were recalled: one counter-attack and the impossible would be disastrous reality. France had no other option, but tot attack and attack, leaving its back vulnerable.
But Lady Luck was on French side this day – in the 57th minute France got a free kick. The spot was convenient, Platini was behind the ball. Dangerous enough, but Arconada had excellent tournament so far, made the wall right, took position, and was ready. Platini did not kick particularly tough ball, which went right into Arconada.
Over – Arconada got it near the goal-line.
And then he kind of turned a but and lost the ball, which went into the net. Unbelievable mistake… and 1-0 France.
The goal, as often happens, freed France from pressure and the rest of the match was even better – Spain pushed forward, but France responded the same way.
In the last minute Bellone scored the second goal, France won 2-0 and became European champion.
The moment of triumph – France its first trophy after great campaign.
Beaming Platini lifts the trophy in front of cheering stadium – a well deserved moment of victory.
Spain finished second – the first time they came close to winning international trophy since 1964. It was wonderful achievement because they arrived as underdogs, but played great football – something entirely unexpected. May be a bit unlucky – if Arconada did not make his terrible mistake, who knows? Spain may have won the final. But it was fair ending – France was the best team at this championship. It was especially good to see players like Santillana and Camacho reaching the final – they were getting old and unfortunately without big international success. There were no bitter feelings even in Spain – Spain was worthy finalist, but France was the better team. Second best was just wonderful.
The new European champions – top row from left: Amoros, Domergue, Tigana, Battiston, Bellone, Tusseau, Ferreri, Bravo.
Middle row: Rust, Genghini, Le Roux, Bergeroo, Bossis, Fernandez, Bats.
Sitting : Giresse, Lacombe, Rocheteau, Hidalgo (sélectionneur), Six, Platini.
Wonderful squad, wonderful champions. Never a dull moment with them, Platini soared above everybody, a true star and leader, excellent coaching. Most importantly, the entertaining attacking football returned as a winner – a victory not just for the French public. A memorable team, one of the most pleasing.