Euro Cup 2024: Recap of Recent Matches

**Spain's Narrow Victory and Strong Performance**

In a match that showcased Spain's dominance, the national team secured a 1-0 victory against Italy thanks to an own goal by Riccardo Calafiori in the 55th minute. Spain's impressive performance saw them controlling nearly 60% of possession and taking 20 shots on goal compared to Italy's meager four attempts.

Gianluigi Donnarumma, Italy's goalkeeper, made eight key changes to keep his team in the match. The pivotal moment came when Nico Williams crossed to Alvaro Morata, leading to the own goal that decided the game. Spain’s relentless pressure and strategic play demonstrated why they are considered tournament favorites. With this victory, Spain advances with a game to spare. However, they will face Albania in their Group B finale without Rodri, who is suspended.

**England Struggles to Convince**

England remains at the top of Group C after a 1-1 draw with Denmark. Harry Kane's early goal initially put England in a favorable position, but Morten Hjulmand's equalizer halted their momentum. England’s play was plagued by sloppy errors and turnovers, particularly after their early defensive approach following Kane's goal.

Denmark capitalized on a turnover from a throw-in, with Hjulmand's low strike hitting the post and finding the back of the net. Despite attempts to regain control, England's substitutes failed to make a significant impact. The team’s defensive lapses gave Denmark multiple scoring opportunities, and England never fully recovered from the setback. There is significant work to be done for England to convince their fans that they are on a trajectory to win the tournament.

**Serbia's Last-Minute Salvation**

Luka Jovic's 96th-minute header salvaged a crucial 1-1 draw for Serbia against Slovenia, keeping their hopes alive in the tournament. Zan Karnicnik had put Slovenia ahead in the 69th minute. Serbia came close to equalizing when Aleksandar Mitrovic hit the crossbar before Jovic finally netted the equalizer after heading in Ivan Ilic's corner and beating Jan Oblak.

**Germany's Solid Advancement**

Germany comfortably reached the last 16 with a 2-0 win over Hungary. This result secures their position in the knockout stages, reflecting their consistent and disciplined performances throughout the group stage.

**Switzerland's Resilient Position**

Switzerland’s 1-1 draw with Scotland leaves the Swiss in a strong position to advance. They have demonstrated resilience and strategic gameplay, positioning themselves well for the next phase of the tournament. On the other hand, Scotland and Hungary are likely to contest for third place in their group.

**Drama in Croatia-Albania Clash**

Croatia and Albania shared points in a dramatic draw, with both teams scoring their first points of the tournament. Gjasula scored an own goal which initially put Croatia in the lead, but he later redeemed himself by equalizing in the 96th minute, ensuring both teams left the field with a point each.

**Upcoming Matches to Watch**

Friday promises to bring more excitement with three matches lined up:

  • Slovakia vs. Ukraine at 9 a.m. (Eastern)
  • Poland vs. Austria at 12 p.m. (Eastern)
  • Netherlands vs. France at 3 p.m. (Eastern)

Each game carries significant weight for the teams involved, as they aim to secure their positions for the knockout stages of the tournament. With high stakes and competitive spirit, these matches are sure to entertain football fans across the globe.