Spain Clinches Top Spot in Euro 2024 Group Stage with Perfect Record
EURO 2024

Spain Clinches Top Spot in Euro 2024 Group Stage with Perfect Record Albania

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Spain has won all three group matches during the European Championship for the first time since 2008, when they secured a narrow 1-0 win vs Albania journey.

With the top spot already assured, Spain boss Luis de la Fuente decided to make ten changes in the final game of Spain’s Group B.

Early Success for Spain

The changes did not hinder Spain’s performance, as Ferran Torres needed just 13 minutes to strike an unorthodox goal beyond the reach of Brentford’s Thomas Strakosha.

Despite Albania’s desperate efforts to change the course of play in the second half, they failed to break through Spain’s solid backline. Consequently, Albania was relegated to the bottom of Group B with just one point.

Spain vs Albania: Focus on the Knockout Phase

For Spain, the focus now shifts to the knockout phase. They aim to replicate their European Championship triumphs of 2008 and 2012.

Torres Makes an Early Breakthrough

Former Manchester City defender Aymeric Laporte was the sole survivor from Thursday’s 1-0 victory against Italy, as De la Fuente rested his regular starters before the knockout stages. In contrast, Albania manager Sylvinho made only one change, substituting Elseid Hysaj with Rayo Vallecano right-back Ivan Balliu.

Spain’s Early Dominance

Spain wasted no time in creating the first shot, with Jesus Navas setting up Mikel Merino, whose clever block was saved by Strakosha. Joselu, on the verge of moving to Qatar, narrowly missed the target, giving a warning to the Albanian backline.

Spain vs Albania: Torres’ Decisive Goal

Minutes later, Dani Olmo produced a well-weighted through-ball to Torres, who slid a left-footed strike past the post. With a slim lead, Spain appeared in control until Kristjan Asllani reminded them of Albania’s presence with a shot that was saved by the stretched Raya.

Albania’s Determination and Grit

Spain could have doubled their lead within the first thirty minutes of the second half. Joselu missed a chance after twisting to receive Alex Grimaldo’s cross. Albania showed more determination after the break, leading Sylvinho to introduce Armando Broja at the hour mark.

Broja’s Impact

Broja quickly made an impact, winning a great free kick, but his first shot was blocked by Raya. Asllani, a constant threat, fired a long strike that just missed the post. Despite their efforts, Albania couldn’t break through Spain’s defense, ending their Euro 2024 campaign with a narrow loss.

Spain vs Albania: Man of the Match

RB Leipzig’s Dani Olmo was impressive in his Euro 2024 debut, providing the crucial assist for the winning goal.

Olmo completed more dribbles than any other player and was Spain’s main threat until he was substituted in the 84th minute.

Although he might struggle to start in Spain’s last-16 match, he has proven to be an essential player for his country.

What’s Next for Spain?

After an unbeaten group stage, La Roja will prepare for Sunday’s last-16 tie in Cologne at 8 pm (BST).

Spain’s opponents are yet to be determined but are expected to be one of the third-place teams from Group A, D, E, or F.

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