Euro 2024 will have its first truly important matchup of the group stage when Spain and Italy meet in the top 10 in Group B on Thursday in Gelsenkirchen.
Between these two opponents there are five European championships, including three of the last four, with Italy as defending champions this year and Spain with the only consecutive European titles, in 2008 and 2012.
Both teams got off to a winning start, with eighth-ranked Spain surprising an aging Croatia with a 3-0 victory and ninth-ranked Italy beating plucky Albania, 2-1.
The two scores were settled at halftime, but it was much more comfortable for Spain, which had gained a three-goal lead at halftime. Meanwhile, Italy had to come back from the earliest goal in European Championship history before holding out for the rest of the match with a slim lead.
Spain won the last two between the two nations, but Italy triumphed on penalties in the Euro 2020 semifinals en route to the title. However, the Italians have not beaten Spain in regulation time since a 2-0 victory at Euro 2016, a streak of five consecutive games without a win.
Spain vs Italy prediction, odds
- Lean Money Line: Spain (160)
- Score prediction: Spain 3-1 Italy
There is simply a disparity in talent between these two teams that should manifest itself on the field during these 90 minutes. While Italy has some players like Nicolo Barella who could sniff out the Spanish team, a combined eleven between these two teams would be largely dominated by the favorites.
They also have form heading into this match, as Spain defeated a quality Croatian team in their first match, while Italy looked vulnerable when pressured by Albania. If Italy can frustrate Spain and force Rodri into one of his typical “the better team didn’t win today” post-match rants, they might have a chance, but it’s an uphill battle against this in-form team. .
