Leadered by Ferran Torresscorer of the only goal of the match, resilient against the attacks of a combative A Lebanon (1-0) and meeting the expectations generated, ‘Unit B’ of Spain sealed the total number of victories to reach the Round of 16 undefeated and, for the first time in its history, without conceding a single goal,
appeared Spain with 10 new features and Laporte as the only repeater regarding the match against Italy. A different eleven that gave the starters a rest for the Round of 16. But without negotiating that effort, that intensity and that high pressure that all the coaches talk about in press conferences when they mention La Roja.
Albania started very strong, driven by its people, convinced of its possibilities and feeling superior for 5 minutes. Until Spain, little by little, settled down and took control, imposing logic on Dusseldorf.
A header from Mikel Merino In the 12th minute, in what was the first shot on goal of the match, he laid the foundations for Spain’s definitive awakening. And the immediate Joseluto Laporte’s center, above the sticks, laid the necessary foundations for the change of ownership of the match.
Spain did not leave a moment of respite in those harassing minutes and, just a few seconds later, in the next play, they found the reward, the crack in the Albanians’ system.
Three touches, in line with the new style of this team, much more direct, were enough to disarm the Balkans. Laporte, from the crescent of the center of the field, looked up and broke lines with a perfect pass to Dani Olmo.
The Leipzig player turned like a spring and found Ferran Torres in space, who defined like Yamal, with his left foot, to the far post and turning his body to the opposite side.
Spain let go and Albania took its toll on the hectic start. Dani Olmo kept the level between the lines, Ferran had another header and Merino defined high from inside the area the pass behind Grimaldo. He only had to intervene once David Raya with a shoe strike Asllani that put an end to a solvent, very practical, efficient party.
‘Unit B’ did its part, although locked in in the final moments. She ended Albania’s dream, on the verge of glory but once again proud of a role that exceeded expectations, she fought until the referee whistled the final whistle, and maintained the record of victories without conceding a goal.
Spain can now think calmly about Cologne, the venue where it will play the round of 16 in which a rival awaits.
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