Spain secured their spot in Euro 2024 with a 1-0 victory against Norway on Sunday, simultaneously granting Scotland qualification from Group A.
In the early stages of the second half, young midfielder Gavi found the back of the net, securing Spain’s place in the tournament in Germany next summer. This achievement came with two games left to spare for the 2008 and 2012 European championship winners.
Norway, who last participated in a major tournament during Euro 2000, and their standout striker Erling Haaland, now face the possibility of qualifying through play-offs. However, for this to happen, they must maintain their third-place position and rely on Serbia to qualify from Group G.
Throughout the night, Spain effectively neutralized Haaland, resulting in a frustrating evening for Norway. As it stands, they are five points behind their counterparts, Spain and Scotland, who are currently tied at the top of the group with just one match remaining.
“From front to back we were really compact, we practically didn’t let (Haaland) receive a single ball comfortably,” Spain defender Dani Carvajal told TVE.
“They barely created any chances against us, we’re going home happy with a ticket for the Euros.”
Gavi had to endure a lengthy wait to determine the validity of his goal as VAR meticulously reviewed the footage.
“I think today we were very good and in the end it bore fruit,” said Gavi.
“(They were checking the goal) I think for (Alvaro) Morata being offside, I don’t know if he was, but in the end they gave it and I’m happy for that.”