Italy and Spain are set to face off in a highly anticipated match at Euro 2024, with Spain currently leading Group B ahead of Italy on goal difference. Both teams secured victories in their opening games, with Croatia and Albania also in the group. The match is scheduled to kick off at 3:00 p.m. ET on FOX and the FOX Sports app.
In their previous matches, Italy narrowly avoided a scare against Albania with a come-from-behind 2-1 victory, thanks to the fastest goal in Euros history scored by Nedim Bajrami. On the other hand, Spain had a dominant 3-0 win against World Cup semifinalist Croatia.
The last time these two teams met in the Euros, Italy emerged victorious in a penalty shootout after a 1-1 draw through extra time. Italy, coached by Roberto Mancini at the time, also needed penalties to beat England in the final. This will mark the fifth consecutive Euros where Spain and Italy will go head-to-head, with each team having secured two wins so far.
Some key team news includes Spain defender Aymeric Laporte returning to training after a muscular issue, while Italian media speculates about possible lineup changes for Italy ahead of the match against Spain.
Italy will be aiming for a record-equalling third European Championship title, with Spain and Germany also having won three titles each. Italy could potentially become the second team to win back-to-back Euros, following Spain’s success in 2008 and 2012. Spain’s Lamine Yamal made history as the youngest player to appear at a European Championship at 16 years and 338 days in their 3-0 win over Croatia.
Player perspectives on the upcoming match include Italy midfielder Davide Frattesi acknowledging Spain’s strength in individual players and emphasizing the need for the Italian spirit to come into play. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon reflects on the unity and ambition shared among the team, media, and fans as they prepare for the match.
In the build-up to the game, there has been less focus on potential security issues compared to previous matches, with the spotlight on the on-field action between these two European football powerhouses. Stay tuned for what promises to be an exciting clash between Italy and Spain at Euro 2024.