Spain continued their flawless run in Euro 2024, maintaining a 100% record after defeating Albania, which resulted in their elimination from the tournament. This outcome also ensured that England, France, and the Netherlands secured their places in the last-16 stage.
Ferran Torres, formerly of Manchester City and now at Barcelona, opened the scoring for Spain in the 13th minute, slotting home a precise finish from Dani Olmo’s pass, with the ball ricocheting off the post.
Albania’s Kristjan Asllani tested Spain’s resolve with a powerful long-range strike, expertly saved by goalkeeper David Raya, who had a standout performance, including denying Armando Broja’s close-range effort.
Having already clinched the top spot in Group B with wins against Croatia and Italy, Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente made wholesale changes to his starting lineup, ensuring all outfield players in the squad got playing time across their three group matches.
Spain, three-time European champions, dominated proceedings in Dusseldorf, with Jesus Navas delivering a pinpoint cross and Mikel Merino going close after a parry.
Despite several opportunities to extend their lead through Olmo, Torres, Merino, and Joselu, Spain maintained control throughout, sealing their victory and confirming Albania’s exit from the competition.
Albania, in only their second appearance at the European Championship and having never qualified for a World Cup, faced a daunting task in a group alongside Spain, Italy, and Croatia. Despite their spirited performances, which included an early lead against Italy and a dramatic late equalizer against Croatia, Albania’s journey came to an end with this defeat.
With the conclusion of Group B matches, England progressed from Group C, while France and the Netherlands advanced from Group D, securing at least a place among the top third-placed teams in the group stage.
Spain, alongside Portugal, remains one of two teams at Euro 2024 with a perfect record heading into the knockout phase. They are set to face a third-placed finisher from Group A, D, E, or F in their last-16 encounter in Cologne on Sunday at 20:00 BST.
Next up for Portugal is their third group match against Georgia on Wednesday, where they will seek to maintain their unblemished record in the competition.
