Spain Clinch Last 16 Berth with Dramatic Win Over Italy

Spain secured their spot in the last 16 of Euro 2024 with a scintillating performance against defending champions Italy in Gelsenkirchen. Despite dominating and creating numerous chances, they narrowly won thanks to an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori in the second half. After almost an hour of Donnarumma’s resistance, Morata’s flick-on was accidentally poked in by Calafiori’s knee. Italy, despite participating in an enthralling match, were clearly second best and couldn’t muster a response.

The clash between these two European giants in the group stage lived up to expectations with a thrilling first half. Spain’s intense and creative play impressed while Italy with outstanding Donnarumma, barely held them off. Donnarumma made three crucial saves, including tipping over Pedri’s header early on and denying Fabian Ruiz and Morata later. Spain’s Nico Williams had several close calls, heading wide and striking the crossbar, but stood out alongside 16-year-old Lamine Yamal, who played with remarkable freedom and narrowly missed a curling effort.

Italy had only three touches in Spain’s box in the first half and no shots on target, failing to improve after the break. Spain dominated, with Pedri and Morata coming close, sealing last 16 with two wins and no goals conceded. Italy can still advance facing Croatia a top-three World Cup finisher twice while Spain meets Albania. Italy’s manager, Luciano Spalletti had hoped his team would play as elegantly as if dressed in Giorgio Armani suits, but it was Spain who exhibited style and dominance.

Giovanni di Lorenzo had a tough time against Williams and Cucurella, who nearly scored with a crossbar strike. Williams and Yamal frequently nutmegged their opponents, delighting Spanish supporters. Midway through the second half, Yamal rallied the crowd to increase their noise, and they responded enthusiastically. Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, praised his team’s progress since Italy’s Euro win three years ago. Despite Italy’s hard work and solid shape, they struggled to match Spain individually.

They were fortunate not to concede more goals, with Donnarumma displaying excellent form. In the final minutes, as Spain tired and players cramped, Italy mounted a late surge, boosting their fans. However, Spain substitute Ayoze Perez was twice denied by the outstanding Donnarumma. Italy, despite a narrow win over Albania for three points, must work to defend their title and reach knockouts. Spalletti acknowledged the difficulties his team faced, noting the sharpness and freshness gap between the two sides.