Spain have joined fellow three-time European Championship winners Germany in the Round of 16 at the ongoing 2024 tournament in the latter country.
La Roja’s qualification was aided by a narrow 1-0 win over two-time winners Italy at Veltins Arena in Gelsenkirchen on Thursday night.
The Spanish goal came in the 55th minute when Riccardo Calafiori deflected Nico Williams’ low cross into his own net.
Spain and Germany have managed to win both their opening two matches in Group B and A, respectively.
Unlike the former who have the honors of leading their group with a game to spare, the latter will have to wait for the final round of the group stages to determine whether they also finish top of the pile.
Meanwhile, a point against Croatia in Leipzig on Monday will be enough for the defending champions, Italy to advance as Group B runners up.
On the same day, Luis de la Fuente’s men will face the stubborn Albania in Düsseldorf hoping to finish the group stage with perfection.
