A narrow home win is enough for Spain to qualify for the tournament’s final for the second year in a row.
Spain defeated Italy 2-1 in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals on Thursday. A dominant display from La Roja ensured their qualification for the European final.
Joselu strikes again!
The game started with Spain stunning the visitors with an early goal.
A misplaced pass in Italy’s backline saw Yeremy Pino latch onto the ball inside their box. The Villarreal star then made it 1-0 for La Roja with a powerful low shot.
Spain pushed to double their lead immediately, but Italy came back into the game in the 11th minute.
Ciro Immobile converted a spot-kick for the visitors, making it 1-1 with a cool shot into the bottom corner of the net.
Spain started their efforts to restore the lead but lacked enough attacking edge to create serious chances before the break.
However, Luis de la Fuente’s changes in the second half changed the course of the game in Spain’s favour. The hosts increased the pressure on Italy’s backline, finally finding the match-winner in the 88th minute.
Joselu, who had replaced Alvaro Morata four minutes earlier, registered his third international goal in his third display for La Roja.
The 2-1 win sends Spain to the Nations League final, where they take on Croatia on Sunday.
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