Last Updated on July 3, 2024
Croatia 1-1 Italy
Croatia and Italy battled to an intense 1-1 draw, a result that left Croatia in a crucial position and secured a knock-out spot for Italy.
The first half started with Croatia dominating possession. They almost took the lead in the opening minutes if it weren’t for a fantastic save by Gianluigi Donnarumma. Italy began warming in the game and had their opportunities, with Dominik Livaković forced to make several stops.
After halftime, they changed tactics by introducing a new striker, Ante Budimir that paid off a while after a penalty was awarded. Although it wasn’t a success, not too long after that in the 55th minute, Luka Modrić finally got through the strong guard of Donnarumma and made an unbelievable rebound giving his team the first lead of the night.
While it may seem that Croatia take home the victory as the match comes closer to the end, an expected goal by Mattia Zaccagni in the 98th minute gives a crucial point to Italy. This late equaliser sent Italy through the next round, leaving Croatia the need for a good game to progress in the tournament.
Albania 0-1 Spain
Albania lost their crucial match against Spain with a score of 0-1, resulting in their elimination from the tournament. But no matter how devastating the match for Albania, for Spain, it gives a perfect record with zero losses in the Euro 2024.
As Albania faced the three-time European Champion, they seemed to struggle to finish the ball. During the start of the first half, Spain’s Ferran Torres made a simple finish in the bottom left corner in the 13th minute giving his team the first and only goal of the night. Although Albania showed a promising start, Spain didn’t give them any chance to progress in the tournament.
Albania had its chances but was unable to beat Spain’s goalkeeper David Raya, who saved a shot by Kristjan Asllani just before halftime. The second half was opened up by both teams looking to create opportunities. Spain went close through a Joselu volley attempt and Albania substitute Armando Broja twice forced Raya into saves. Spain, though, managed the game well with periods of possession to see the win out. The only flicker of hope for Albania sadly arrived too late when Broja struck.
As the match ended, Spain made a step closer to getting the championship title again, while Albania’s Euro 2024 journey came to a sad end.