Spain and Italy look to claim a knockout round berth in one of the top matches of the EURO 2024 group stage as both sides build off winning starts.
Spain smashed Croatia 3-0 in Berlin to start Group B play, while reigning champions Italy overcame an early concession to beat Albania 2-1 in Dortmund.
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Nicolo Barella and Alessandro Bastoni scored for the Azzurri in the opener, the former joining Jorginho in helping the Italians control the midfield to the tune of 67% possession.
Spain ran out 3-0 winners over Croatia but showed some cracks in their armor during a second-half that saw neither team score while piled up nine shots and 1.91 xG.
How to watch Spain vs Italy, stream link and start time
Kick off: 3pm ET, Thursday (June 20)
Stadium: Gelsenkirchen
How to watch on TV in USA: Fox Sports
Spain vs Italy live updates — By Nick Mendola
Spain lineup
Simon, Carvajal, Le Normand, Laporte, Cucurella, Pedri, Rodrigo, Fabian, Yamal, Morata, Nico Williams
Italy lineup
Donnarumma, Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori, Dimarco, Jorginho, Barella, Chiesa, Frattesi, Pellegrini, Scamucca
Spain team news, focus
Fabian Ruiz had a goal and an assist in Spain’s win over Croatia and young Lamine Yamal impressed in attack. If the Spaniards are to control the game, it will take big days from Ruiz, Pedri, and Rodri in the middle of the park.
Italy team news, focus
Italy will look to get joy out wide, as playmakers Federico Chiesa — presuming health — and Lorenzo Pellegrini look to build on promising starts to their tournaments.
Spain vs Italy prediction
La Furia Roja and Gli Azzurri should be a midfield battle for the ages, but the finishing could leave something to be desired when the chances arrive for the forwards. While a goal-a-minute thriller would be nice, we’re expecting quite the opposite. Spain 1-1 Italy.