Spain 1-0 Italy: Dominant Spain edge out Italy to secure passage into last 16

Spain secured their spot in the knockout stages of EURO 2024 with a match to spare by defeating Italy 1-0 in their 11th encounter at a major tournament.

This match marked the fifth time these two European powerhouses faced each other in the European Championships. Both teams were determined to continue their winning streak in the group stage.

Despite previous eliminations by Italy in Euro 2016 and Euro 2020, Spain has shown that they are a team capable of moving forward. Their impressive victory over Croatia in the first game of the tournament proved that they can win even with less possession, a feat they hadn't achieved since the Euro 2008 final.

In this match, Spain dominated possession early on, creating opportunities through excellent build-up play. Pedri's header was met with an incredible save by Gianluigi Donnarumma, showcasing the Italian goalkeeper's skills. Italy struggled to keep up with Spain's pace, and Nico Williams missed a golden opportunity to score with a header.

As the first half progressed, Italy attempted to counterattack, but Spain remained in control. Alvaro Morata and Fabian Ruiz both tested Donnarumma with their shots, but the goalkeeper made impressive saves to deny them.

The second half started similarly to the first, with Pedri missing a chance to score from 12 yards out. However, Spain finally took the lead in the 55th minute thanks to an unfortunate own goal by Italian defender Riccardo Calafiori. It was a well-deserved goal for La Roja, considering their efforts throughout the match.

Spain's performance against Italy had a touch of the country's golden era, as they effortlessly moved the ball around. The Azzurri struggled to keep up with the trio of Lamine Yamal, Pedri, and Williams. Williams almost scored a spectacular goal with 20 minutes remaining, hitting the woodwork from outside the box.

Italy managed to break through Spain's defense only in the final 10 minutes, but it was too little too late. They will need to step up their game in the crucial final group stage match against Croatia.

On the other hand, Spain continues to impress and silence their critics as they gear up for their upcoming match against Albania.