Spain defeated Italy, the reigning champions, 1-0 on Thursday night to secure their spot in the round of 16.

 

La Roja had beaten Croatia 3-0 in their first game and were comfortable in possession when they faced the Italians.

 

The Group B heavyweight clash was a repeat of the semifinals match at Euro 2020 and the Spaniards revenged the defeat on penalties to the eventual winners of that year’s Championship who won via penalties.

 

Riccardo Calafiori’s own goal was the difference on the night but aside the goal, the duo of Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal were thorns for the Azzurri who could not deal with their speed and trickery.

 

Spain’s only disappoitment could be the yellow card to Manchester City midfielder, Rodri, who was booked in the course of the game, the second so far in the group which has ruled him out of the match against Albania.