Spain Delivers Dominant Performance to Defeat Defending Champions Italy

Spain won against the Euro 2020 winners, Italy, and secured their place in the next round with a game to spare. They joined Germany in the Round of 16 as the second team to move forward.

The Spanish team, led by Luis de la Fuente, controlled the match and had many opportunities before winning 1-0.

Spain made one change from their last win against Croatia; Nacho was benched for Aymeric Laporte, who returned from an injury. Lamine Yamal stayed in the lineup. Italy played the same squad that beat Albania 2-1.

Spain had most of the ball and created chances in the first half. Nico Williams and Pedri could have scored but didn’t, leaving it scoreless at halftime.

In the second half, Spain continued to pressure Italy’s defense, which led to a goal in the 55th minute. Nico Williams sent a cross to Alvaro Morata, whose touch led to an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori.

Spain tried for another goal, but Italy’s keeper Donaruma made key saves. Italy tried to tie the game late on but couldn’t, and Spain won 1-0.