Albania look to keep their knockout dreams alive against already qualified Spain at UEFA Euro 2024.
Victory coupled with a win for Croatia over Italy and a better goal difference or more goals scored would see Albania advance as Group B runner-up, whilst Spain have already won the group irrespective of what happens here.
Team News
Albania have no fresh injury concerns to report but Armando Broja, Klaus Gjasula, Elseid Hysaj, Arber Hoxha and Mirlind Daku are all one booking away from suspension.
Spain will be without Rodri who is suspended but there will be several changes in order to rest key players ahead of their Round of 16 tie.
When is Kick-Off?
Albania meet Spain at Dusseldorf Arena, Dusseldorf, on Monday 24 June at 9pm CEST (8pm UK Time), live on BBC2 in the UK.
Stat Attack
- This is Albania’s first meeting against Spain at a major tournament.
- Spain are yet to suffer a draw or loss against Albania after eight previous meetings (W8).
- Albania have scored first in each of their last three matches at Euro tournaments (W1, D1, L1).
- Spain are unbeaten in their last five group matches at Euros dating back to Euro 2020 (W3, D2).
Prediction
Although they could of easily been the whipping dogs of this group, Albania have more than stood their own ground against Italy and Croatia but if they score first here, they need to cut out those defensive slips if want to win and give themselves a chance at progression.
Spain meanwhile were absolutely sensational in their opening two matches so can afford to lift the gas a bit, but this is a huge chance for fringe players to stake their claim in the starting line-up for their Round of 16 tie so I do expect another strong performance.
Albania though do need the win more and will be fired up for this game knowing that only a win would do, so I do expect a tough and competitive battle but Spain should really cruise through unbeaten.
Prediction: Albania 1-2 Spain
Result: Albania 0-1 Spain