Spain Secure Euro 2024 Knockout Stage Spot as Group B Winners
Spain secured their place in the Euro 2024 knockout stages as Group B winners with a 1-0 victory over Italy in Gelsenkirchen. The game-winning goal came from an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori, but Spain were well worth the victory.
Athletic Club star Nico Williams put in a virtuoso performance down the left-hand side and played a key role in the decisive goal. Spain’s dominance was evident as they had several early chances, with Pedri and Nico Williams both wasting headed opportunities. Alvaro Morata and Fabian Ruiz also went close before the break, but Gianluigi Donnarruma kept them at bay.
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Pedri firing wide before Calafiori turned the ball into his own net after Donnarumma pushed Morata’s header into his path. The goal sparked a response from the Azzurri, but they were unable to properly test Unai Simon in the Spanish goal.
Spain almost added to their lead late on, with Lamine Yamal curling an effort narrowly wide and Nico Williams striking the crossbar with a thunderous strike. Substitute Ayoze Perez was also kept out by Donnarruma in the closing stages.
“This victory ensures Spain’s place in the Euro 2024 knockout stages as group winners, while Italy’s hopes of progressing hang in the balance.”
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