Spain’s relentless pressure was too much for Italy, whose own goal allowed the Spaniards to win 1-0 in the latest chapter of one of European soccer’s most storied international rivalries.
Spain clinched a Group B victory with the win and improved their record to 4-0 against defending champions at the Euros. Spain is the second team to punch its ticket to the knockout stage, joining tournament host Germany.
Fit for a King
Final Score: Spain 1, Italy 0
It may have not been the prettiest game, but it was still a crucial result for Spain to advance in Euro 2024. King Felipe VI of Spain celebrated the victory appropriately. Meanwhile, the “FOX Soccer Now” crew of Jimmy Conrad, Maurice Edu, and Ari Hingst broke down what makes this new-look Spain special.
Donnarumma Continues Clutch Performance
90+2′: Spain 1, Italy 0
Gianluigi Donnarumma’s Italy probably will not come away with a victory, but the star goalkeeper has given his squad a chance time and time again with eight saves on the evening, tied for most in a game in Euro 2024.
Near Nico Williams Banger!
70′: Spain 1, Italy 0
Nico Williams nearly doubled Spain’s lead with an incredible strike that nearly curled into the goal but bounced off the post to keep the lead within one.
Can Italy Equalize?
66′: Spain 1, Italy 0
Italy started to press forward to try to get back in the match but was unable to finish any chances.
Spain Keeps Knocking
60′: Spain 1, Italy 0
They may be in the lead, but Spain’s dynamic attackers wanted to get on the scoresheet themselves, pressuring Gianluigi Donnarumma into six saves thus far.
Spain Finally Breaks Through — With Some Help
54′: Spain 1, Italy 0
Spain’s pressure finally broke through Italy’s defense in the worst way for the Azzurri, as Riccardo Calafiori’s clearance attempt instead found the back of the net for an own goal. It’s the first own goal in a meeting between Spain and Italy since 1970, per FOX Sports Research.
Another Big Spain Chance!
52′: Spain 0, Italy 0
A brilliant Marc Cucurella found Pedri just in front of goal, but the young star’s shot went wide much to his chagrin.
Rodri to Miss Spain’s Final Group Stage Game
Halftime: Spain 0, Italy 0
Just before halftime, superstar Spain midfielder Rodri was given his second yellow card in as many games, meaning he will be suspended for Spain’s final Group B match against Albania on Monday.
Spain Somehow Goalless at Half
Halftime: Spain 0, Italy 0
Spain pressured Italy throughout the vast majority of the first half, with 10 shots and four on goal (compared to two total shots for Italy with zero on goal) but failed to convert an opening goal.
Donnarumma Going All Out!
25′: Spain 0, Italy 0
Spain may have had a 2-0 lead if not for two full extensions from Gianluigi Donnarumma, the second of which came on a blazing Fabian Ruiz strike.
Teen Spirit
24′: Spain 0, Italy 0
Sixteen-year-old Spain sensation Lamine Yamal dazzled with his ball-handling as his team continued searching for an opening goal.
Early Extracurriculars
15′: Spain 0, Italy 0
Gianluigi Donnarumma was given a yellow card after some early scuffles in an already action-packed match.
Another Golden Opportunity for Spain
10′: Spain 0, Italy 0
Spain again sliced through Italy’s defense, but Nico Williams’ open header off an Alvaro Morata pass sailed wide.
What an Early Chance!
2′: Spain 0, Italy 0
It took a full extension from Euro 2020 hero and Italy captain Gianluigi Donnarumma to keep a Pedri header out of the net and Spain off the scoreboard in just the second minute.
This game encapsulated the intensity and unpredictability of Euro 2024. Spain’s persistence paid off, securing their place in the knockout stages. Italy, despite their best efforts and the brilliance of Donnarumma, couldn’t break through. As the tournament progresses, Spain’s momentum could make them formidable opponents for any team they face.
