France qualified for the round of 16 thanks to Albania’s defeat against Spain

The Blues are now assured of being – at worst – among the best thirds after the Spanish success against Albania (1-0).

Between a team already qualified and assured of being first, and another limited and in bad shape, we could expect a tasteless meeting. This is what was proposed by Spain and Albania on Monday June 24 in Düsseldorf. During this dull evening, it was the Spaniards who came out on top, thanks to an early goal from Ferran Torres (13th). The only brilliance of a meeting which never got carried away, despite the envy of the Albanians.

However, Spain had largely revised its copy, with ten changes compared to the convincing victory against Italy: only Aymeric Laporte was still there, Luis de la Fuente giving playing time to his entire squad. Apart from Dani Olmo, one of the few to shine on the pitch, few Spanish substitutes took advantage of this evening to showcase themselves.

It must be said that Spain did not need to force its talent to win. This is evidenced by the action of the opening score, which saw La Roja pierce Albania over sixty meters, in just two passes. The first, signed Aymeric Laporte, split the block for around forty meters, towards Dani Olmo. The RB Leipzig playmaker then made his vision speak to launch Ferran Torres, in the area, who finished perfectly with one touch (1-0, 13th).

Behind, Spain did not really keep their foot on the accelerator. Apart from a few strikes, La Roja was no longer really dangerous. So the Albanians, although technically overwhelmed, tried to come back. Several strikes from Kristjan Asllani made David Raya shudder, also on parade against Armando Broja (64th).

Voluntary, Albania, however, ended up suffering again, when the usual Spanish holders came into play. They too in vain. Because Spain did not need to take unnecessary risks: this victory by the smallest of margins, La Roja did not even need it to finish first in its group. This success ensures that the Blues are present in the round of 16, at worst being among the best third-placed teams in the competition.