Juan Mata gets out his Euro 2012 Spain shirt live on air. (Image: BBC)
Former Spain star Juan Mata lightened the tension in the BBC studio by offering Gary Lineker and co a special present in the build-up to the Euro 2024 final. Mata, who scored in the final when Spain last won the tournament in 2012, is on duty alongside Lineker and co-pundits Micah Richards and Rio Ferdinand.
And he surprised viewers by unveiling the exact international shirt he wore in that 4-0 triumph over Italy in Kyiv 12 years ago.
After the Beeb showed footage of Mata’s strike that night, Lineker prompted the offer after he jokingly asked the former Chelsea and Manchester United man about being outnumbered while on media duty.
“How do you think you’ll get on between these two English centre defenders?” he asked. Mata smiled as he replied: “Easy, easy. Easier here than on the pitch anyway.”
Lineker then got more than he bargained for after saying: “And the shirt you wore (from the Euro 2012 final), you've got with you?” Mata duly pulled out the jersey, and said: “I have a little gift for you, I might give it to you later!"
Referring to England’s failure to land an international tournament win for 58 years, Lineker continued to keep it light-hearted, asking: “Can you also tell us please what it feels like to win a tournament? Because we’d like to know, hopefully for later on?”
After making the offer Mata said "I might give it to you later." (Image: BBC)
That’s where the conversation turned serious though, with Mata saying: “It feels really nice. It feels so special. To go and win a trophy for your country is unique.”
The 36-year-old, who left Japanese side Vissel Kobe in January after just one appearance, then spoke about how current coach Luis de la Fuente has rebuilt the national side. Sunday represents their first major final since the 2012, which signalled the end of a glorious era that also saw them land Euro 2008 and the 2010 World Cup.
Whether Mata’s latest final appearance can help the BBC notch their own victory remains to be seen. The broadcaster is going head-to-head with rivals ITV as both stations show live coverage of the tournament finale.
Trending
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
And while the BBC started on a jovial note, ITV took a different approach. Just minutes after going on the air they had Gary Neville pitch-side, interviewing new Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer.
Starter spoke about how “proud” he was of Gareth Southgate and the players. However, he refused to confirm if he was prepared to sanction a national holiday if the Three Lions prevailed in Berlin.