Spain advanced to the Euro 2024 last 16 as Group B winners, thanks to Riccardo Calafiori’s own goal in a 1-0 victory over Italy.
Spain impressed once more, having thrashed Croatia 3-0 in their first game, and should have won by a larger margin in Gelsenkirchen if not for a combination of superb saves from Italy’s Gianluigi Donnarumma and poor finishing.
The 2010 world champions joined Germany, who defeated Hungary 2-0 on Wednesday in the round of 16.
The defending champions, Italy, will now hope that Spain defeats Albania in their final group match to advance to the round of 16. They will progress to the round of 16 as group runners-up if they avoid defeat against Croatia, who must also win to advance.
Meanwhile, England was held to a disappointing 1-1 draw against Denmark on Thursday evening. Despite taking an early lead in the 18th minute, Gareth Southgate’s Three Lions were unable to maintain their lead as Morten Hjumand equalized in the 34th minute.
With four points from two matches, England will advance to the round of 16 if they avoid defeat against Slovenia and Denmark does not beat Serbia.
France and Mbappe clash the Netherlands
Favorites France will face the Netherlands tonight in the group decider. A win for either side will qualify them for the round of 16, as both teams are first and second in Group D with three points each.
France’s captain, Kylian Mbappe, who broke his nose in their 1-0 win over Austria after his face collided with the shoulder of Austrian defender Kevin Danso, is expected to lead the attack tonight after earlier reports that he will not feature.
Mbappe is hopeful of being involved against the Netherlands in Leipzig, with head coach Didier Deschamps confirming that “things are moving in the right direction” when asked about the 25-year-old’s availability the day before the game.
“Yesterday he went out, he did a little activity. This will also be the case this evening. Things are moving in the right direction to ensure that he is available tomorrow,” Deschamps said.
Mbappe unveiled a specially designed mask to protect his broken nose but he may be banned from wearing it due to Uefa rules, according to multiple reports.
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