In the Euro 2024 Group Stage match early on June 21 in Beijing, Spain defeated Italy 1-0, securing their spot in the knockout rounds with one game to spare.
Statistics revealed that Spain had an impressive 21 shots, while Italy managed only four.
This was the most shots attempted by the Spanish team in a non-friendly match since the quarterfinals of the 2008 Euros.
The UEFA official statement suggested that Italy was fortunate to lose by just one goal, as they failed to meet expectations for most of the game. It was only due to Gianluigi Donnarumma’s outstanding saves that Italy avoided a heavier defeat. Spain dominated in virtually every duel, with Nico Williams proving unstoppable; they fully deserved the victory and the top spot in their group. Now, Italy must avoid losing to Croatia to progress to the Round of 16.
Notably, Donnarumma made eight saves in this match, the second-highest number by an Italian goalkeeper in a Euro tournament, trailing only Gigi Buffon’s record of 10 saves against Belgium in 2000.
UEFA hailed it as an exciting, bold, and aggressive encounter where Spain deserved more for their efforts. Their performance was exhilarating, and neutral fans would have been on their side, although there is room for improvement in converting chances. This match added to the spectacle of the Euros.
Former Italian international Beppe Bergomi commented, “Spain controlled the game from start to finish. Italy was lucky to lose by just one goal. The team in red was superior.”
