Spain Becomes First Team To Win All Group Stage Games

Spain capped off their Group B campaign with a perfect record, securing three wins and three clean sheets after a comfortable 1-0 victory over Albania at the Düsseldorf Arena on Monday.
Having already qualified for the knockout stages, Spain coach Luis Enrique opted for a heavily rotated lineup. Defender Aymeric Laporte was the sole survivor from the previous starting XI.
The Spanish “B team” wasted no time, taking the lead in the 13th minute. Ferran Torres received a pass from Dani Olmo and remained composed in the box, firing a low shot that deflected off the left post and into the net.
Despite facing elimination, Albania offered minimal threat in the opening period, failing to register a single shot on target. Spain continued their dominance throughout the first half. Torres nearly doubled his tally in the 41st minute, but his header sailed just over the bar.
Albania finally registered their first attempt on goal two minutes before halftime. Kristjan Asllani’s first-time effort from outside the box was comfortably saved by David Raya.
Entering the second half, Albania desperately chased an equalizer, knowing victory was their only chance to potentially progress. Frustrated by their lack of possession, Albania forward Armando Broja was substituted in the 59th minute by 27-year-old Rey Manaj.
Spain, however, maintained their control throughout the second half. They displayed excellent passing range, keeping Albania on the back foot. The Albanians squandered a rare opportunity in the Spanish penalty area when Arber Hoxha attempted a nutmeg on a defender, but his subsequent shot drifted over the bar.
The physically demanding match concluded in Düsseldorf, with Albania having spent most of the game chasing shadows. Spain secured their third win of the tournament, becoming the first team to win all three group matches in Euro 2024.
This feat also marked Spain’s first perfect group stage since their Euro 2008 triumph. Spain finishes top of the group with nine points. Croatia holds second place after a 1-1 draw with reigning champions Italy, while Albania departs with a single point.