Spain eliminated Albania from Euro 2024 with a 1-0 victory that made it three wins from three in Group B.
Having already qualified as group winners, Luis de la Fuente made 10 changes to his starting line-up but the fluency remained as they took the lead early on through Barcelona forward Ferran Torres.
Spain, captained by 38-year-old Jesus Navas, had chances to extend their lead through the impressive Dani Olmo and veteran striker Joselu but the second goal never did come. They did not need it.
A consequence of this result is that England, with four points from two games, are now guaranteed to reach the knockout stages regardless of what happens in their game against Slovenia on Tuesday evening.
Albania did have opportunities of their own, Arsenal’s David Raya saving well from Kristjan Asllani and substitute Armando Broja. But Sylvinho’s side were at their limit trying to cope with Spain’s superior quality and their spirited tournament is over.
The only previous team to win every group game without conceding a goal at a European Championship are Italy three years ago and they went on to lift the trophy. With such strength in depth, a repeat of that feat cannot be ruled out.
More to follow…
