PREVIEW: Spain v Italy – including key players, team news, and where to watch EURO2024 clash

When the EURO2024 draw was carried out at the hands of Italian footballing icon Gianluigi Buffon, one group, in particular, caught everybody’s eye: Group B.

Colloquially labelled the ‘group of death’ by fans across the globe, it features competition holders Italy and three-time champions Spain. Both teams won their opening matches, albeit in contrasting fashions.

Spain kicked things off with a commanding 3-0 victory over a strong Croatia side, whilst Italy survived an early scare at the hands of underdogs Albania to take all three points.

The two European giants will lock horns at the Arena AufSchalke in Gelsenkirchen, the stadium that hosted England’s win over Serbia earlier in the tournament.

What is the latest team news?

Spaniards Rodri and Álvaro Morata were substituted off against Croatia through injury, but both are expected to have made a full recovery ahead of the Italy clash. It remains to be seen whether Al-Nassr centre-back Aymeric Laporte will feature for La Roja.

As for Italy, Nicolò Fagioli is expected to be in contention to feature after missing the Azzurri’s opening match with a bruised fibula. Nicolò Barella had fitness doubts entering the tournament, but the midfielder’s impressive performance against Albania proved he’s well up to speed in Germany.

Who are the key players?

Alessandro Bastoni was one of the top players of EURO2024 matchday one. The 25-year-old Inter Milan defender put in a monstrous display alongside Riccardo Calafiori at the heart of one of the tournament’s best back fours.

The aforementioned Barella is one of Luciano Spalletti’s most important players, and was the scorer of one of matchday one’s best goals. Ahead of him, Federico Chiesa is the key man in the final third for Italy.

La Roja’s Fabián Ruiz was perhaps a surprise package in a team full of superstars versus Croatia. The PSG midfielder netted a wonderful goal and an assist in a dominant performance alongside Rodri and Pedri.

16-year-old Lamine Yamal made history as the youngest-ever player to compete at the Euros, and is the brightest spark of a well-rounded Spain attack.

What did the managers say?

Italy boss Luciano Spalletti was full of praise for his opposition when speaking to the media, saying: “They [Spain] have got absolutely everything when it comes to individual qualities, the skillset as a team, they always do things in the same way.”

This is Spalletti’s first major tournament as Azzurri boss, and he looks forward to what he calls “one of the most important matches” of his career.

Luis de la Fuente’s views were no different, dishing out compliments to Italy: “They’re very similar to us; they changed their team recently, they’ve got some young players, and I love how competitive they are. They have great individuals and some very experienced players. It’s almost like looking in a mirror.

“Spain v Italy is a classic game, it could very easily be the final. They have great players, a great coach, and a real football culture. They’re one of the great national teams.”

What time is kick-off?

Kick-off for Spain v Italy is scheduled for 20:00 BST [21:00 CEST] on Thursday, 20th June.

Where can I watch Spain v Italy in Group C of EURO2024?

For those watching in the United Kingdom, Spain v Italy will be broadcast live by ITV.

You can enjoy full coverage of this match and Euro 2024 as a whole here on our website. Stay up to date with all the latest by following us on X.