In the "second living room" of their legend Raul at Schalke, the Spaniards clearly dominated the game, but initially failed repeatedly against Donnarumma. After just 90 seconds, the 25-year-old was called into action when he used a strong reflex to deflect a header from Pedri over the bar. Alvaro Morata was also thwarted by Donnarumma (24th minute), as was Fabian Ruiz with a long-range shot (25th minute).

"We will stay true to our identity, play with elegance, but also with the willingness to eat grass if necessary," Spalletti announced, and despite all the praise for the opponent, stressed: "You shouldn't overestimate them either." He had warned his team above all about the "power and intensity" of the Spaniards when they attacked. With the same starting eleven as in the 2-1 win against Albania, the Azzurri immediately went on the defensive.

Italians are getting quieter and quieter

Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente spoke of the "Clasico of Europe" and expected two similar teams in the eighth European Championship duel between the giants. When he looks at the Italians, it feels like he is "looking in the mirror". Compared to the 3-0 win against Croatia, he made one substitution: Aymeric Laporte came on for Nacho.

The systems were indeed mirrored. The difference was that the Spaniards had significantly more possession and were able to combine more freely and were more aggressive against the ball than the Italians. "Eviva Espana," sang the 10,000 fans of the Furia Roja, while the almost 30,000 Tifosi became quieter and quieter. Only after falling behind did the defending champions become more offensive, but Spain still had the better chances: Nico Williams hit the crossbar (70th minute). In injury time, Donnarumma saved twice against Ayoze Perez.



Unlike the opening match between England and Serbia (1:0), when there was harsh criticism of the host city of Gelsenkirchen and especially of the public transport on social networks, the mood was excellent even before kick-off: Both fan groups celebrated exuberantly in the city, the Spaniards marched together to the arena. The police described the atmosphere as "peaceful and happy".