Spain vs Italy – June 21, 2024 | Spain secured first place in Group B of UEFA EURO 2024 with a decisive victory over Italy at the Arena AufSchalke, courtesy of Riccardo Calafiori’s own goal early in the second half. Fans were treated to an intense battle between two football powerhouses, and the outcome had significant implications for both teams.
Match Details | Spain vs Italy
- Date: June 21, 2024
- Venue: Arena AufSchalke, Gelsenkirchen
Score Summary
- Spain: 1 goal
- Italy: 0 goals
Key Moments
- 2′: Pedri Header Tipped Over by Donnarumma
- 10′: Williams Nods Wide in Front of Goal
- 52′: Pedri Slots Cucurella Cross Wide of Near Post
- 55′: Morata Header Rebounds in off Calafiori
- 70′: Williams Thumps Against Bar from Corner of Area
- 90+1′: Donnarumma Denies Pérez Superbly after Dribble
Team Statistics | Spain vs Italy
Spain
- Yellow Cards: 3
- Total Shots: 19
- Shots on Target: 9
- Ball Possession Percentage: 56%
- Fouls: 16
Italy
- Yellow Cards: 2
- Total Shots: 4
- Shots on Target: 0
- Ball Possession Percentage: 44%
- Fouls: 14
Match in Brief: Impressive Spain Too Strong for Azzurri
Both Spain and Italy fielded familiar line-ups after opening victories, with Aymeric Laporte returning to Spain’s defense as the sole change. Italy, resilient from their comeback win against Albania, found themselves under early pressure again, with Nico Williams creating opportunities.
Spain’s dominance grew as the match progressed. Despite missed chances from Williams and Álvaro Morata, Spain’s persistence paid off in the 55th minute. Morata’s header, redirected by Williams, resulted in an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori, breaking the deadlock.
Italy struggled to find offensive rhythm, thwarted by Spain’s organized defense and Unai Simón’s secure goalkeeping. Despite late efforts from Italy, including a Bryan Cristante attempt saved by Simón, Spain maintained their lead to secure top spot in Group B.
Vivo Player of the Match: Nico Williams (Spain)
“A standout performance by Williams, pivotal in attack and solid defensively. His contributions, including creating the decisive goal, underscored his impact.”
Key Stats | Spain vs Italy
- Spain have now won three consecutive matches against Italy and are unbeaten in the last six meetings (W4 D2).
- This marked the eighth EURO final tournament encounter between Spain and Italy, a competition record.
- Spain have lost only one of their last 14 EURO group stage matches (W10 D3).
- La Roja have kept eight clean sheets in their last ten EURO group fixtures.
- Riccardo Calafiori’s own goal was only the second such instance for Italy in EURO or World Cup history.
Starting Line-ups
Spain:
- Simón
- Carvajal
- Le Normand
- Laporte
- Cucurella
- Pedri (Ález Baena 71)
- Rodri
- Fabián Ruiz (Merino 90+4)
- Yamal (Ferran Torres 71)
- Morata (Oyarzabal 78)
- Williams (Pérez 78)
Italy:
- Donnarumma
- Di Lorenzo
- Bastoni
- Calafiori
- Dimarco
- Barella
- Jorginho (Cristante 46)
- Frattesi (Cambiaso 46)
- Pellegrini (Raspadori 82)
- Chiesa (Zaccagni 64)
- Scamacca (Retegui 64)
In-Depth Analysis of Spain vs Italy
The Spain vs Italy clash at EURO 2024 exemplified tactical prowess and resilience on both sides. Spain’s controlled possession and defensive solidity neutralized Italy’s threats, culminating in a pivotal own goal that sealed Spain’s progression and top spot in Group B.
First Half: Spain’s Dominance and Italy’s Resistance
Spain dictated play early, with Nico Williams and Pedri testing Gianluigi Donnarumma’s reflexes. Despite early misses, Spain’s attacking intent forced Italy to defend deep. Italy relied on sporadic counterattacks, with Federico Dimarco’s runs offering glimpses of danger.
Second Half: Spain Breaks the Deadlock
The second half saw Spain intensify their pressure. Williams’ involvement proved crucial as his cross, redirected by Morata, inadvertently led to Riccardo Calafiori’s own goal. Italy struggled to respond, with Spain’s defensive structure denying them clear chances.
Tactical Insights and Player Performances
Spain’s 4-3-3 formation, anchored by Rodri’s midfield control and Williams’ dynamic play on the wings, outmaneuvered Italy’s midfield trio. Aymeric Laporte’s return bolstered Spain’s defense, limiting Italy’s attacking options and showcasing Spain’s tournament pedigree.
Conclusion
The Spain vs Italy encounter at EURO 2024 showcased Spain’s tactical superiority and resilience, securing a vital victory and top spot in Group B. Despite Italy’s defensive efforts, Spain’s persistence and strategic discipline, highlighted by Nico Williams and defensive solidity, proved decisive. As both teams progress, Spain looks poised to challenge for EURO glory, while Italy aims to regroup for the knockout stages, setting the stage for further captivating football in the tournament.
