Ferran Torres’ 20th international goal secured Spain’s flawless group stage record at UEFA Euro 2024, as they edged past Albania 1-0 in Düsseldorf. This marks Spain’s first perfect group record at a major tournament in 16 years, simultaneously ending Albania’s campaign.
With qualification already assured, Spain’s manager Luis de la Fuente rotated his squad significantly, keeping only Aymeric Laporte from the side that clinched a 1-0 victory over Italy. Albania, needing a win to progress, started with determination, reminiscent of their early goal-scoring efforts against Italy and Croatia earlier in the tournament.
However, Spain quickly took control. Mikel Merino’s header tested Thomas Strakosha, and Joselu’s effort narrowly missed before Torres broke the deadlock in the 13th minute. Laporte’s incisive pass found Dani Olmo, whose through-ball set up Torres to slot home off the post.
Spain dominated much of the match, with David Raya making crucial saves, notably denying Kristjan Asllani before halftime. After the break, Joselu almost doubled the lead, connecting spectacularly with Álex Grimaldo’s cross, only for the ball to go wide. Albania’s Armando Broja came close to equalizing shortly after his introduction, but Raya’s quick reflexes preserved Spain’s lead. Despite a spirited push from Albania, including late chances from Arbër Hoxha and Broja, they could not find the net.
Spain now await their round-of-16 opponents with a perfect record, while Albania exit with heads held high after valiant performances in a tough group.
In a parallel match, Italy secured their knockout stage spot with a dramatic 1-1 draw against Croatia. Desperate for a win to keep their hopes alive, Croatia started strongly, but Italy’s defensive resilience held firm. Dominik Livaković’s heroics kept Italy at bay, including a stunning save from Alessandro Bastoni’s header.
Croatia’s persistence paid off when they won a penalty early in the second half, though Luka Modrić’s effort was saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma. Modrić quickly redeemed himself, scoring from a rebound to become the oldest goalscorer in Euros history. Italy, relentless in their pursuit, found their equalizer in stoppage time through substitute Mattia Zaccagni’s curling strike.
Italy’s dramatic point secures their place in the last 16 against Switzerland. Croatia, on the other hand, faces an anxious wait to see if their efforts will suffice for a best third-place finish spot in the knockouts.
