England and Spain are set to clash in the Euro 2024 final, a significant moment for both nations and their sporting interests. However, amidst the excitement, Spanish fullback Marc Cucurella, who plays for Chelsea in England, has become a focal point of attention at the Olympiastadion in Berlin.
Cucurella has been facing relentless boos from the German fans in attendance, stemming from a controversial incident in the quarter-finals where Spain faced Germany. During that match, Spain emerged victorious with a 2-1 scoreline, courtesy of a dramatic last-minute header by Mikel Merino.
The contentious moment involved Cucurella allegedly committing a handball in the box, which many believed should have resulted in a penalty for the host nation. However, the on-field referee and VAR review did not penalize Cucurella or Spain for the incident, leading to discontent among the German supporters.
While it is unlikely that Cucurella intentionally cheated, the German fans have continued to express their disapproval by booing the 25-year-old every time he touches the ball. This reaction began in the semi-final against France and has carried over to the final against England.
Cucurella, earning his ninth cap for Spain in the final, made his international debut in 2021. Starting his career at Barcelona, he later played for Getafe before moving to England to represent Brighton and Hove Albion. In 2022, he joined Chelsea, where he currently plies his trade.
The animosity towards Cucurella underscores the intensity and passion surrounding the Euro 2024 final, as both teams vie for the coveted title. The spotlight on Cucurella serves as a reminder of the fine margins and controversies that often define high-stakes football matches.
