Albania vs Spain – June 24, 2024 | The UEFA Euro Cup saw an intense match between Albania and Spain, which ended in a narrow victory for Spain. Despite fielding a much-changed line-up, Spain secured their third consecutive win in Group B, thanks to Ferran Torres’s decisive goal. This match also marked the end of Albania’s qualification hopes for the tournament.
Match Summary | Albania vs Spain
- Date: June 24, 2024
- Venue: Düsseldorf Arena
Key Moments in the Match
- 12′: Strakosha keeps out Merino’s header
- 13′: Ferran Torres scores for Spain
- 45′: Asllani forces a save from Raya
- 47′: Joselu volleys narrowly wide
- 64′: Raya thwarts substitute Broja
- 90+2′: Broja tests Spain keeper again
Statistics
- Albania:
- Shots: 15 (8 on target, 7 off target)
- Passing accuracy: 81.99%
- Yellow cards: 2
- Spain:
- Shots: 25 (14 on target, 11 off target)
- Passing accuracy: 87.87%
- Yellow cards: 1
Match in Brief: Different Line-up, Same Outcome for Spain
Spain’s coach, Luis de la Fuente, made ten changes to the squad that secured a victory over Croatia to maintain their top spot in Group B, retaining only Aymeric Laporte. Despite this extensive overhaul, Spain demonstrated their depth and quality, overpowering a determined Albanian side. Albania, managed by Sylvinho, required a win to keep their last-16 hopes alive, and they pressed aggressively in the early stages.
First Half: Early Pressure and the Decisive Goal
The “Albania vs Spain” match began with Albania exerting high pressure, looking to disrupt Spain’s rhythm. However, Spain’s talent soon started to shine through. Thomas Strakosha, Albania’s goalkeeper, made an impressive save off Mikel Merino’s header, but the breakthrough for Spain came shortly after. In the 13th minute, Dani Olmo delivered a precise through ball to Ferran Torres, who finished cleanly off the far post.
Spain continued to dominate possession, employing their characteristic style of play. Despite Albania’s energetic pressing, Spain created several chances. A notable moment was Berat Djimsiti’s critical tackle, which prevented Dani Olmo from extending Spain’s lead. Towards the end of the first half, Kristjan Asllani’s long-range effort was expertly saved by Spain’s goalkeeper, David Raya.
Second Half: Sustained Pressure and Spain’s Resilience
The second half of the “Albania vs Spain” encounter saw Spain nearly doubling their lead. Joselu came close with a spectacular volley from Alejandro Grimaldo’s cross, just missing the target. Albania, fueled by their passionate supporters, continued to push forward, with substitute Armando Broja providing fresh energy. Broja forced another excellent save from Raya, keeping Albania in contention.
Despite Albania’s relentless efforts, Spain managed to control significant portions of the game. Their tactical discipline and ability to maintain possession allowed them to withstand Albania’s attacks. The final whistle confirmed Spain’s 1-0 victory, leaving Albania to exit the tournament.
Player of the Match: Ferran Torres
Ferran Torres was pivotal throughout the “Albania vs Spain” match. His goal in the 13th minute not only secured the win for Spain but also showcased his exceptional positioning and finishing skills. Torres was a constant threat to the Albanian defense, making intelligent runs and maintaining a high work rate both in and out of possession.
Key Stats from the Match
- Spain’s Group Stage Success: Spain won all three group matches for only the second time in EURO history, the first being in 2008 when they won the tournament.
- Defensive Record: Spain finished the group stage without conceding a goal, a first in their EURO history.
- Unbeaten Streak: Spain extended their unbeaten streak to 11 competitive matches, with 10 wins and 1 draw.
- EURO Group Stage Dominance: Spain has lost only once in their last 15 EURO group stage matches (11 wins, 3 draws).
- Ferran Torres’s Tournament Goals: Ferran Torres has now scored five goals for Spain in major tournaments, including EURO 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
- Dani Olmo’s Playmaking: Dani Olmo has provided four assists in seven EURO final tournament games, second only to Cesc Fàbregas for Spain since 1968.
- Albania’s EURO Record: Albania has won just one of their six EURO matches, with one draw and four losses.
- Clean Sheets: Albania has managed only one clean sheet in their six EURO fixtures.
Line-Ups
Albania: Strakosha; Balliu, Djimsiti, Arlind Ajeti, Mitaj; Ramadani, Asllani; Asani (Muçi 81), Laçi (M. Berisha 70), Bajrami (Hoxha 70); Manaj (Broja 59)
Spain: Raya; Jesús Navas, Vivian, Laporte (Le Normand 46), Grimaldo; Zubimendi, Merino; Ferran Torres (Yamal 72), Olmo (Álex Baena 84), Oyarzabal (Fermín López 62); Joselu (Álvaro Morata 72)
Detailed Analysis: Albania vs Spain
Spain’s Tactical Flexibility and Depth
Spain’s ability to field a virtually new line-up and still perform at a high level highlights their depth and tactical flexibility. Coach Luis de la Fuente’s decision to rotate the squad paid off, allowing key players to rest while still securing a win. This approach ensures that the entire squad remains sharp and match-ready as the tournament progresses.
The “Albania vs Spain” match showcased Spain’s adaptability. Despite Albania’s aggressive pressing, Spain maintained their composure, employing both possession-based play and direct attacks. Ferran Torres’s goal exemplified this dual approach, combining quick passing with incisive movement.
Albania’s Valiant Effort
Albania’s performance in the “Albania vs Spain” match was commendable despite the loss. Their high-energy pressing and relentless pursuit of the ball created several opportunities. Kristjan Asllani and Armando Broja stood out, both testing Spain’s defense and goalkeeper David Raya.
Coach Sylvinho’s tactics aimed to disrupt Spain’s rhythm and capitalize on counter-attacks. While Albania fell short, their determination and tactical execution were evident. The team’s effort resonated with their supporters, who passionately backed them throughout the match.
Key Performances and Tactical Battles
- Ferran Torres: His goal and overall performance were crucial for Spain. Torres’s ability to find space and finish clinically made the difference.
- David Raya: Spain’s goalkeeper made several key saves, particularly against Asllani and Broja, ensuring Spain’s clean sheet.
- Kristjan Asllani: Albania’s midfielder was instrumental in driving his team forward, his long-range shots posing significant threats.
- Berat Djimsiti: The Albanian defender made critical tackles, particularly a notable one preventing Dani Olmo from scoring.
Strategic Substitutions
Luis de la Fuente’s substitutions during the “Albania vs Spain” match were strategically sound, maintaining the team’s defensive solidity while providing fresh legs. Bringing on Álvaro Morata and Yamal added experience and youth, respectively, balancing the team’s dynamics.
Sylvinho’s substitutions also aimed to inject energy and attacking impetus. The introduction of Armando Broja was particularly impactful, as he consistently challenged Spain’s defense.
Implications for Both Teams | Albania vs Spain
Spain’s Prospects
Spain’s perfect group stage record sets a strong foundation for the knockout rounds. Their ability to adapt tactically and the depth of their squad will be significant advantages. The “Albania vs Spain” match demonstrated that even with extensive rotations, Spain can maintain a high level of performance. This flexibility will be crucial as they face stronger opponents in the knockout stages.
Albania’s Exit
Albania’s exit from the tournament is a setback, but their performances, especially in the “Albania vs Spain” match, showcased their potential. The team can take pride in their resilience and tactical discipline. Lessons learned from this campaign will be invaluable for future competitions. Coach Sylvinho can build on this experience to strengthen the squad and improve their competitive edge.
Conclusion | Albania vs Spain
The “Albania vs Spain” match on June 24, 2024, was a testament to Spain’s depth and tactical prowess, as well as Albania’s tenacity. Ferran Torres’s goal secured a hard-fought victory for Spain, maintaining their perfect record in the group stage and highlighting their potential as strong contenders for the UEFA Euro Cup.
For Albania, despite the defeat, the match was a display of their fighting spirit and tactical acumen. As both teams move forward, Spain with their sights set on the knockout rounds and Albania looking to the future, the “Albania vs Spain” encounter will be remembered as a defining moment in the tournament.
