Spain and Italy are coming off victories in their opening matches of UEFA Euro 2024, beating Croatia and Albania respectively. The teams, managed by Luis de la Fuente and Luciano Spalletti, meet on Thursday in their second group stage match. After Croatia and Albania’s draw on Wednesday, both teams need just one point to book their place in the knockout stages, and a win would guarantee them entry. Here’s what you need to know:
How to watch and odds
Date: Thursday, June 20 | Time: 3 PM ET Location: Veltins-Arena — Gelsenkirchen, Germany TV: FOX | Streaming: Fubo (free trial available) Odds: Spain +115, Draw +225, Italy +280
Team news
SPAIN: De la Fuente’s Spain side are not expected to make any substitutions after the opening game, despite doubts over the fitness of players such as Alvaro Morata and Rodri, but all should be available to start on Thursday, with FC Barcelona stars Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams expected to start against Italy in support of the Atletico Madrid striker.
Spain potential XI: Simon, Carvajal, Le Normand, Nacho, Cucurella, Pedri, Rodri, Luis, Yamar, Morata, Williams.
ITALY: Spalletti is expected to confirm the same starting XI that played against Albania last Saturday, with doubts over the inclusion of Gianluca Mancini and Bryan Cristante, who would provide a more solid defensive and midfield line but could lack creativity. The Italian coach is due to make a final decision after training on Thursday morning.
Italy candidate XI: Donnarumma, Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori, Di MarcoJorginho, Barella; Frattessi, Pellegrini, Chiesa; Scamacca.
Group B standings and schedule
TEAMMPWDLGFGAPTSSpain
1
1
0
0
3
03Italy
1
1
0
0
2
13 Albania
2
0
1
1
3
41 Croatia
2
0
1
1
2
51
June 15
Spain 3, Croatia 0
Italy 1, Albania 2
June 19th
Croatia 2, Albania 2
June 20
Spain vs. Italy, 3pm on FOX
June 24th
Albania vs. Spain, 3 p.m. on FS1
Croatia vs. Italy, 3 p.m. on FOX
prediction
The two teams met at Euro 2020, with Italy winning on penalties in the semi-finals, so expectations will be high for the Spanish side this time around. Prediction: Spain 2, Italy 1.
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