Spain vs Italy: Preview, Lineups and Predictions?

Having secured opening game victories, Spain and Italy are well-placed to secure safe passage from the so-called ‘Group of Death’. Another win here would ensure their place in the first knockout round, a stage both nations have reached during the last four European Championships.

Given the status of these massive footballing nations, this is one of the most highly anticipated group-stage games of the tournament. Many neutrals are sure to be tuning in, especially as both these sides are considered possible options to go all the way to Germany. Although you should not draw massive conclusions from this clash, it will tell us something about which team is the more serious contender for another European Championship title.

• Location: Gelsenkirchen
• Stadium: Arena AufSchalke (Veltins-Arena)
• Date: 20 June 2024
• Kick-off Time: 21:00 CEST (20:00 BST)
• Referee:?Slavko Vin?i?
• VAR: Nejc Kajtazovic

Spain Team News

Luis de la Fuente played down concerns that there are any significant problems with two of his key players, Rodri and Alvaro Morata. Both were subbed off in the second half of the win over Croatia, but only with minor issues. Atletico striker Morata simply picked up a knock, which he confirmed himself, while Rodri was feeling a little fatigued.

With both men set to play here, Spain will be able to name a full-strength side. This will likely mean Lamine Yamal keeping his place on the wing. The 16-year-old Barcelona forward made history against Croatia by being the youngest-ever player to feature in the Euro finals.

Italy Team News

Nicolo Barella was initially a doubt for Italy’s opening clash with Albania but was cleared to play by Luciano Spalletti in a pre-game press conference. If Barella had been rushed back in any way, he did not show it, as he completed an energetic 92 minutes before being subbed off.

The other doubt in the Italian camp related to Davide Frattesi, who pulled out of training days before Saturday’s match. He also appeared fully fit, though, managing to play the entire match against Albania. This means Spalletti has every member of his squad available for selection here.

Spain vs Italy H2H Record and Key Numbers

Although Italy scored more goals in this fixture (46 vs 45), Spain enjoyed a better overall record with 14 wins, 14 draws and 11 losses. The two nations also have plenty of history in this competition, most recently when meeting in the Euro 2020 semi-finals, a match Italy won via penalties.

Both these teams are very accustomed to winning, so something has to be given here. Impressively, La Roja won 11 of their last 13 matches while the Azzurri recorded 7 wins in their last 10 efforts. It is also worth noting that the Italians have conceded just twice in their last six games.

Possible Lineups

• Spain (4-3-3): Unai Simón – Carvajal, Le Normand, Nacho, Cucurella – Pedri, Rodri, Fabián Ruiz – Yamal, Morata, Williams
• Italy (4-3-3): Donnarumma – Di Lorenzo, Bastoni, Calafiori, Dimarco – Frattesi, Jorginho, Barella – Chiesa, Scamacca, Pellegrini

Where to Watch Spain vs Italy Euro 2024 – TV and Online Live Streaming

Viewers in Italy can watch the action on RAI 1, while Spanish audiences need to access RTVE. If you are based within the UK, the game will be live on ITV and STV (in Scotland).

Prediction?for Spain vs Italy

The Italians are exceptionally good at keeping a solid defence on a big stage. Across their last 12 Euro finals games, the Azzurri have conceded just six goals. So, as good as Spain looked in attack against Croatia, you should expect their forward talents to look more blunted here. This, combined with the fact Italy are not the most free-scoring side, leaves me to believe a cagey draw is on the cards. I think the most likely outcome is 1-1, a scoreline seen eight times in this fixture.

*Odds are subject to change

For more Spain vs Italy tips, check out our predictions page.