Italy lost, but nothing was compromised. The first defeat at Euro 2024 occurred in Gelsenkirchen against Spain, who are now arithmetically first in Group B. However, to advance to the round of 16, it will be sufficient not to lose on Monday in Leipzig against Croatia, given the advantage in the direct clash against Albania, who will face the Spanish. Spalletti's team, on the other hand, did too little to frighten Spain, who were superior from the first to the 90th minute, with the Azzurri saved before the 1-0 (courtesy of an own goal by Calafiori) by Donnarumma and, later, by the crossbar. This is the coach's second defeat in charge, following a 3-1 loss at Wembley Stadium on October 17. "Too much Spain; they were fresher than us - Spalletti's analysis - We received readings that were too late. The key to the problem remains the same: we were below the level of reaction in order to accompany and regain low positions. They were fresher than us, which made it difficult for us to make decisions quickly. When three or four new players arrived, we threw more high balls and created situations that could have led to an equaliser, but they were far too strong for us and deservedly won. Croatia? We always make a difference; it just depends on how we get there, through our choices. It gets difficult if we don't have any options".
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