Spain secured a spot in the knockout stages of EURO 2024 with a game to spare by defeating Italy 1-0, marking their 11th major tournament encounter—a record for European nations. This victory followed Spain’s dominant performance over Croatia in their opening match, where they won despite having less possession for the first time since the Euro 2008 final.
In this match, Spain controlled the early play, with Pedri’s header drawing a remarkable save from Gianluigi Donnarumma. Nico Williams missed a golden headed chance after 10 minutes, nodding past the post from a promising position. Italy attempted to counter but struggled to match Spain’s tempo. Alvaro Morata and Fabian Ruiz both tested Donnarumma, who made crucial saves to keep Italy in the game.
Pedri had another chance early in the second half, sending his effort wide from 12 yards. The breakthrough came in the 55th minute when Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori scored an own goal, giving Spain a deserved lead. The Spanish trio of Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Williams tormented the Italian defense, with Williams nearly scoring a spectacular goal, hitting the woodwork from the edge of the box.
Italy made some inroads into Spain’s defense in the final 10 minutes, but it was too late. Spain’s victory leaves them in a strong position ahead of their final group game against Albania, while Italy faces a crucial match against Croatia, hoping for a better performance to secure their advancement.
Source: ghmediahub
