Spain 1-0 Italy: La Roja qualify for the last 16

Spain defeated Italy 1-0 thanks to an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori, securing their qualification for the Euro 2024 last 16 as Group B winners.

Spanish dominance from the start

Nico Williams was a nightmare for Italian right-back Giovanni Di Lorenzo and almost scored with a close-range header, but Gianluigi Donnarumma made several crucial saves, including efforts from Pedri, Alvaro Morata, and Fabián Ruiz.

One-sided first half

Despite Spain’s dominance, the teams went into halftime with a goalless draw. Spain controlled 61% of possession, completed 293 passes compared to Italy’s 165, and took nine shots to Italy’s one.

Decisive goal in the second half

Spain continued to press in the second half, and Italy eventually succumbed when Calafiori deflected a cross from Williams into his own net.

Impressive statistics

Spain finished the match with 20 shots, nine on target, compared to Italy’s four. Donnarumma was Italy’s standout player, preventing Spain from extending their lead. Spain also dominated in passes (537 to 365) and corners (5 to 2).

International reactions

Spain’s performance was praised by the international press, who see Luis de la Fuente’s team as serious title contenders. Italian newspapers described the defeat as a football lesson, highlighting the technical gap between the two teams. With this victory, Spain strengthens their status as favourites for Euro 2024, while Italy must fight against Croatia to continue in the competition.

MATCH SUMMARY

Spain won against Italy with a score of 1-0. Scorers Spain: Goal by Riccardo Calafiori (55′)