The Euro 2024 group stage concluded with high drama as Italy snatched a last-gasp 1-1 draw against Croatia, propelling them into the knockout phase. Italy’s savior, Mattia Zaccagni, found the back of the net in the 98th minute, offsetting Luka Modric’s earlier strike for Croatia. This result left Croatian coach Zlatko Dalic incensed over the eight minutes of stoppage time, while Italy’s Luciano Spalletti admitted his team’s performance was ‘timid’ at times. Italy, finishing second in Group B, is now set to face Switzerland on Saturday.Meanwhile, Spain continued their impeccable form with a 1-0 win over Albania, thanks to a goal from Ferran Torres. Goalkeeper David Raya’s critical saves ensured Spain kept their first clean sheet in the group stage of a major international tournament since 1980. With this victory, Spain became the second team to win all group stage matches without conceding a goal at the European Championship, replicating Italy’s feat from Euro 2020. Spain’s next challenge will be on June 30 against the third-place team from Group A/D/E/F.Croatia’s campaign ended in heartbreak as they were left to rue missed opportunities, including Modric’s penalty saved by Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite Modric’s record-setting goal, making him the oldest scorer in the tournament’s history, Croatia’s chances of progression are slim. The emotional rollercoaster of Group B has paved the way for an intense knockout stage, with Spain and Italy emerging as formidable contenders.
Key points
- Italy advances to Euro 2024 knockout stage after a draw with Croatia, with Zaccagni scoring a crucial late goal.
- Spain wins all group stage matches without conceding a goal, set to play next match on June 30.
- Croatia faces a slim chance of progressing after a heartbreaking draw with Italy.
