Spain and Italy Open Euro 2024 with Contrasting Victories

Spain Dominates Croatia, Italy Edges Ukraine

Defending European champions Italy and tournament favorites Spain both secured victories in their opening matches of Euro 2024, albeit in vastly different fashions.

Spain cruised to a comfortable 3-0 win over Croatia, controlling the match from start to finish. Pedri opened the scoring in the 25th minute, followed by goals from Dani Olmo and Ferran Torres in the second half.

In contrast, Italy faced a much tougher test against Ukraine. Federico Chiesa gave the Italians the lead in the 31st minute, but Artem Dovbyk equalized just before halftime. The match remained deadlocked until the 86th minute, when Lorenzo Insigne converted a penalty to secure the win for Italy.

Olive and Blue Caps Off Impressive Opening Day

Substitute Joselu scored a fortunate winner three minutes from the end as Spain booked their place in the final of the Nations League finals with a 2-1 victory over Italy in the first semi-final in Milan.

Spain will face Croatia in Sunday's final after they beat the Netherlands 2-1 in the earlier semi-final.