Albania Vs Spain, Euro 2024: Ferran Torres Shines As La Roja Continue Flawless Run
New Delhi: Despite starting with 10 new players in the starting line-up against Albania, Spain secured a 1-0 victory, thus maintaining their unbeaten dream run at the Euro 2024. This is also the first time Spain won all three group games since 2008, when it went on to win the tournament. Coached by Luis de la Fuente, Spain have already confirmed their place in the knockout rounds as group toppers. It was also the third time Spain made 10 changes from one game to another at the Euros – against Greece (2008), against Italy (2008) and against Albania (2024).
The tactical move allowed the players to stay fresh for the upcoming crucial knockout games as the Spanish Armada are yet to get their Round of 16 opponents. Ferran Torres delivered a class performance as his clinical finish in the 13th minute proved a decisive goal. Torres’ performance will give great insights to De La Fuente as he will look to prepare for the business end of the tournament.
Spain’s achievement of winning all three group games gives glimpses of their Euro 2008 campaign where they eventually ended up lifting the title. On the other hand, Albania’s hopes of qualifying for the knockout rounds went up in smoke as they finished last in the group with a solitary point.
Spain topped Group B with securing maximum nine points, while defending champions Italy clinched second spot with four points after securing a draw against Croatia later on the day. The Croats managed to finish third with two points.
De La Fuente’s tactical move to rotate his squad extensively, with Aymeric Laporte being the only player retained from the previous match, showed Spain’s depth and quality of the squad. Even after Albania’s passionate support and feverish atmosphere made by their fans, Spain’s quality outshined everything. Although Albania made some great chances in the second half but failed to breach Spain’s resolute defence.
Spain’s victory also meant England qualify for the knockouts before their final group game against Slovenia. With four points from two games, England are sitting at the top of Group C and a win against Slovenia will make them toppers. England can still top the group if they draw with Slovenia and Serbia winning against Denmark.
Even if England play a draw and Denmark win, then the two teams will be level on five points with overall goal difference coming into play. By no means England can finish lower than third in Group C.