Euro 2024: Spain Awaits Next Opponent in Tournament’s Twisted Tale

Long Wait for Spain’s Next Challenge

Spain‘s National Football Team is facing an unusual dilemma at Euro 2024. After securing the top spot in Group B they must wait days to find out their next opponent in the knockout stages.

This unusual tournament format has created a tense period of waiting for Spain and a challenging scenario for their coaching staff and analysts.

The uncertainty arises because only four of the six third-place teams advance to the round of 16. Spain are scheduled to play a third-place team and won’t know their opponent until all group-stage matches are completed.

This situation means Spain’s coaches and analysts must prepare for various potential rivals from powerful teams like Belgium and France to surprise entries like Georgia.

“We might have to stay awake all night in order to study our rival when we find out who it is,” said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente after his team’s 1-0 victory over Albania.

“We need to wait until Wednesday probably, a couple of days, until we know who we’re playing with. In any case, we’ll be mentally prepared to go all out and try to get to the next stage.”

Also Read: Albania vs Spain Player Ratings as Ferran Torres Shines Brilliantly

Croatia and Hungary in Limbo

Croatia are in a much more precarious position. After a late goal from Italy resulted in a 1-1 draw Croatia dropped to third place in their group. With just two points and a poor goal difference their fate is uncertain.

Coach Zlatko Dalic has hinted at the slim chances of continuing in the tournament but acknowledges they must wait for the final group results.

Similarly, Hungary finds themselves in a waiting game. Their third-place finish in Group A, bolstered by a 1-0 win over Scotland, puts them on the edge of qualification. Like Croatia, they must wait until the final group matches conclude to know their fate.

Fans Left in Suspense

This waiting game extends beyond the teams to the fans who are left in suspense about where and when their teams will play next.

The complicated format has added an extra layer of tension to an already thrilling tournament. Thus, leaving fans, players, and coaches eagerly awaiting the final outcomes.

As it stands, only one round-of-16 match is confirmed: Italy will face Switzerland in Berlin on Saturday. The rest of the fixtures remain up in the air creating an intense period of anticipation and preparation for the remaining teams.

Also Read: Albania vs Spain Highlights: Ferran Torres Scores Stunning Goal | ALB 0-1 ESP