U21 Euros: Spain and Italy Advance, Slovakia Wins Final Match

Spain secured top spot in Group A after a 1-1 draw against Italy, while Slovakia ended their campaign on a high note with a 2-1 win over Romania. Get the highlights and match analysis.

Spain secured top spot in Group A despite a 1-1 draw against Italy, with both teams advancing to the quarterfinals undefeated. The match, devoid of major stakes for either side, became a battle for group supremacy.

The game got off to a lively start, with Spain taking the initiative early on.

Spain had the first chance, with Raul Moro's long-range shot from the edge of the box getting blocked just before the 15-minute mark. Italy gradually found their footing, and Jacopo Fazzini tested the Spanish goal with a powerful strike from distance, which Pablo Cuñat expertly palmed away.

Italy took control of the match, creating several scoring opportunities, but struggled to capitalize on them due to poor finishing. Daniele Ghilardi headed wide from a promising position, and Michael Kayode's powerful shot was saved by Pablo Cuñat, leaving both teams level at halftime.

Spain surged forward after halftime and finally broke through in the 53rd minute. Raul Moro's clever cutback was swept home by Jesús Rodríguez.

Spain qualify as Group A winners after draw with Italy 🔢#U21EURO pic.twitter.com/2HwWZEIZPo

— UEFA Men's Youth (@UEFAMensYouth) June 17, 2025

Italy responded swiftly, refusing to let the setback dent their morale. They equalized just six minutes later.

Italy equalized thanks to Niccolo Pisilli's impressive power and pace. The AS Roma player controlled a long ball on the right wing and broke into the box, burying a finish into the far corner.

Spain had a chance to retake the lead when Rafa Marín headed wide from a corner kick, squandering a great opportunity.

Spain pushed hard for a winner, but Roberto Fernández's powerful long-range shot was spectacularly saved by Gioele Zacchi. Despite late chances, including Riccardo Turicchia's saved effort, the score remained deadlocked at 1-1.

In the end, Spain topped Group A due to their superior goal tally (6-3), as both teams finished level on points and goal difference.

Slovakia Clinches Win

Slovakia ended their home campaign on a high note, thanks to a standout performance from Tomas Suslov, as they defeated Romania 2-1 in their final match of the 2025 UEFA U21 European Championships. The win snapped a five-match losing streak, with the hosts having drawn two of their previous eight matches.