Spain’s Depth Could Be Key in Euro 2024 Long Run
While England’s Gareth Southgate continues to search for a positive performance to take into the Euro 2024 knockout stages, Spain’s Luis de la Fuente was able to rotate his squad after securing top spot in Group B.
In Spain’s 1-0 win over Albania, Ferran Torres scored the goal, but Dani Olmo’s performance, and the attacking threats of full-backs Jesus Navas and Alex Grimaldo, as well as Mikel Merino’s display in midfield, were all highlights. Goalkeeper David Raya also made several crucial saves.
These players, who may find themselves on the bench when Spain return to action in the round of 16, will have gained valuable tournament experience and will be ready to impact the game if called upon. This depth could prove crucial for Spain’s long-term success in Euro 2024.
Modric Cruelly Denied Another Magic Night at Euro 2024
Croatia’s Luka Modric became the oldest scorer ever at a European Championship when he netted against Italy, but his dreams of another deep run in a major tournament were dashed by Italy’s late equalizer.
The 38-year-old midfielder, who was helplessly watching from the dugout, will be left to ponder whether this was his final appearance on the international stage. With Spain and Italy in the same group, Modric’s fifth Euros and ninth major tournament with Croatia were always going to be a challenge, and the manner of their dramatic draw with Italy felt cruelly painful.
Broja Key to Albania’s Future, but Underutilized at Euro 2024
Despite Albania’s valiant effort at Euro 2024, their key attacking star Armando Broja was underutilized, starting just one of the three group games. The Chelsea striker had two big chances against Spain, but both were saved.
With Albania’s other forwards playing their club football in less prominent leagues, Broja has to become the focal point of this Albania side going forward. The 22-year-old’s role in the team was peculiar, given his status as their main attacking threat, and Albania will need to build their future around him if they are to make further progress in major tournaments.
Zaccagni the Unlikely Hero as Italy Salvage Draw Against Croatia
Mattia Zaccagni, a 29-year-old Lazio winger, scored a brilliant last-gasp equalizer for Italy against Croatia, keeping the Azzurri’s hopes of defending their European Championship title alive.
Zaccagni’s wonderful, bending effort into the far corner contrasted with the scrappy, desperate football Italy had produced after Luka Modric’s opener had looked set to send Croatia into the last 16. This could be a defining moment for Zaccagni, who won the Serie A goal of the season prize in 2021 for an overhead kick, as Italy look to mount a successful defense of their crown.
In other football news, the Champions League, FIFA World Cup, Women’s World Cup, Africa Cup of Nations, Premier League, EFL Cup, EFL Championship, EFL One, EFL Two, and FA Cup continue to captivate fans around the world.
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