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Mattia Zaccagni strikes at death to crush Croatia and send Italy through to last 16
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Spain complete perfect Euro 2024 group stage as Albania go out
Spain continued their flawless start to Euro 2024 with a 1-0 victory over Albania on Monday, securing their third consecutive win in the tournament. Ferran Torres’ superb strike in the 13th minute, assisted by Dani Olmo, was enough to seal the win.
Spain, already qualified for the last 16, dominated the match with Torres, Mikel Merino, and Joselu coming close to scoring. Despite Albania’s spirited efforts, with Kristjan Asllani and Armando Broja testing Spanish keeper David Raya, they were unable to find the net. This result sees Spain top Group B, while Albania exits the tournament.
In the other Group B match, Italy secured a dramatic 1-1 draw against Croatia, earning them a place in the last 16 as group runners-up. The match was tightly contested, with Croatia’s Luka Modric having a penalty saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma in the 54th minute. However, Modric quickly redeemed himself by scoring the rebound, becoming the oldest scorer in European Championship history at 38 years and 289 days.
Italy fought back and, in added time, Mattia Zaccagni scored a stunning equalizer from distance, breaking Croatian hearts and ensuring Italy’s progression. Croatia, with two points, now awaits the results from other groups to see if they can advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
Spain topped Group B with nine points, Italy followed with four points, and Croatia finished third with two points. Albania, finishing last with one point, has been eliminated. This result guarantees that England, France, and the Netherlands will finish at least among the best four third-placed teams, securing their spots in the knockout stages.