EURO 2024: Spain beat Italy 1-0 to book spot for knockout stages
Spain shine with 1-0 win over Italy in their Group B clash at Euro 2024, courtesy of an unfortunate own goal by Riccardo Calafiori.
Despite the loss, Italy remain in contention to advance, needing just a point against Croatia to secure second place.
Spain, dominant throughout the match, started strongly with Gigio Donnarumma making a crucial save within the first 90 seconds, tipping Pedri’s header over the bar.
The Italian goalkeeper continued to be busy, denying Alvaro Morata and Nico Williams on multiple occasions.
Spain mark second consecutive win in Euro 2024 tournament – Getty image
Italy’s defense was tested severally. Bryan Cristante’s introduction at halftime brought immediate aggression but failed to change the scoreline.
Spain’s persistence paid off in the 64th minute when a Nico Williams cross led to a Morata header, which deflected off Calafiori and into the net.
Donnarumma’s saves kept Italy in the game, including a spectacular save to push a long-range Morata shot over the bar.
A goal-line clearance by Andrea Cambiaso further prevented Spain from doubling their lead.
Despite being outplayed, Italy created a late chance, with Mateo Retegui failing to connect with a Cristante cross.
Nico Williams was particularly impressive, nearly scoring with a curler that struck the crossbar.
