The top two teams in Group B will headline Thursday’s action at Euro 2024, as Spain and Italy collide in what is one of the most highly anticipated matches of the group stage. These two sides were involved in a thrilling semifinal shootout at the last Euros, which Italy won on its way to the title. Spain defeated Croatia 3-0 in the opener, while Italy got an early scare from Albania but eventually went on to win that encounter.
Here’s what you need to know for the match, with odds courtesy of DraftKings Sportsbook.
Spain v. Italy
Date: Thursday, June 20
Time: 3 p.m. ET
TV channel: Fox
Livestream: fuboTV, Foxsports.com
Moneyline odds
Spain: +115
Draw: +215
Italy: +270
Moneyline pick: Draw +215
If you look at the comparison between Spain and Croatia, both sides had five shots on target and the losers actually had slightly more possession. I don’t see Spain having that kind of fortune again, especially against a better Italian defense. The Azzurri will be more prepared after a historic lapse against Albania quickly put the team on its heels. Italy eventually took control of the game and found some goals, but Spain will present more of a challenge there.
Aymeric Laporte should be close to a return, although it’s unclear if he’ll get playing time. Alvaro Morata and Rodri were part of the injury report but both should be good to go per manager Luis de la Fuente. Italy have no injuries at the moment from the opener. Nicolo Fagioli was not part of the win over Albania but is trending towards being available for this game.
I do think both sides are fairly evenly matched, though it’s more likely Italy performs similar to its first group game than Spain. The Spanish got fairly fortunate with some of their chances against Croatia, and Italy won’t be as forgiving. That being said, I like the value on the draw here for two sides who know this clash means a lot in terms of securing a knockout spot.