Spain and Italy, the two most decorated teams in UEFA U21 European Championship history with five titles apiece, have become the first nations to secure their spots in the quarter-finals of Euro 2025 after consecutive wins in Group A.
For the second straight edition, Spain opened their campaign with back-to-back victories, sealing progression to the knockout stage for the seventh time in the last eight tournaments. Impressively, La Rojita have reached at least the semi-finals in each of those previous six appearances, fueling belief that they could break the title deadlock with Italy and go clear at the top of the all-time standings.
However, their journey has not been without tension. Spain were made to work hard in their latest outing against Romania, missing a first-half penalty and falling behind before two late strikes in the final five minutes turned the match on its head for a dramatic 2-1 win. That followed a thrilling 3-2 victory over Slovakia on matchday one, sealed with a 90th minute winner, leaving Santi Denia’s side providing plenty of late drama for their fans.
In contrast, Italy’s path to the quarter-finals has been more measured and clinical. Gli Azzurrini secured consecutive 1-0 wins, marking the first time since 2013 that they’ve opened a Euro campaign with maximum points from their first two group matches. That year, they reached the final, only to fall short against Spain.
History may not be on Italy’s side, with just two wins in their last ten head-to-heads against Spain (D2, L6). Yet, recent form under coach Carmine Nunziata suggests resilience. Italy have lost only once in their last 12 matches (W7, D4), and while their consistent scoring, exactly once in five of their last seven games, has been enough so far, they trail Spain on goal difference. As such, only a win in their final group match will see them top the section.
Players to Watch:
Mateo Joseph has been a key figure for Spain, with all of his last six U21 goals coming before half-time, three of them proving to be his side’s final goals in those games. Meanwhile, Italy’s Wilfried Gnonto, who assisted their most recent goal, remains a creative spark. The Leeds United winger has five goal contributions (3 goals, 2 assists) in his last five appearances for club and country.
Hot Stat:
Italy have scored exactly once in five of their last seven matches, including each of their last four, a testament to their controlled but narrow approach.
