Champions League Final 2016: 5 takeaways for Euro 2016

1. Yannick Carrasco could be Weapon X for Belgium

After Atletico Madrid looked largely anemic in their attack in the first half of the Champions League Final—saver for a few Antoine Griezmann individual runs and looks at goal—Diego Simeone knew that he had to make a change to try and ignite a fire beneath his side if they were going to have any chance at either equalizing or defeating their rivals in Real Madrid. Enter 22-year-old Belgian Yannick Carrasco.

Just like he did in the second leg of the semifinal against Bayern Munich, the young midfielder came on for Augusto Fernandez at the start of the second half and his impact was immediately felt. The Atletico attack started having much more life and creativity behind it with Carrasco on the pitch almost right away. Then, of course, it was Carrasco that was able to streak into the box and hammer home the equalizer late in the second half.

Obviously Belgium is going to be one of the favorites to win the Euro 2016 tournament given the depth and talent that they have on their squad. However, a young player with the pace and inspiration in his play like Carrasco could be looked at as almost a secret weapon for the Belgians. What’s for sure is that, if Carrasco can play for his country consistently at the level that he did in the Champions League Final, he’ll be a factor.