Norway 0-1 Spain (Oct 15, 2023) Game Analysis

Spain secures Euro 2024 spot with Gavi’s decisive goal against Norway

Spain has secured a place at Euro 2024 after Gavi’s second-half goal propelled them to a 1-0 victory over Norway. Joining them in the tournament will be their Group A rivals Scotland and Turkey from Group D, in what was a dramatic night of qualifying.

Both Spain and Scotland secured their spots in the top two of their groups, earning 15 points each from six games. Norway finished in third place with 10 points, despite playing one more game. Meanwhile, Turkey secured their qualifying position with a dominant 4-0 win against Latvia.

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It was Gavi who scored the winning goal for Spain, ending Norway’s chances of reaching the final in Germany next year and dashing the hopes of their star player Erling Haaland from Manchester City.

“I’m extremely pleased with the result. We played exceptionally well and it paid off,” said Gavi after the match. “We have been on a winning streak lately. Norway is a formidable team, especially when playing at home. So, we are very happy.”

In the chilly Oslo night, Spain dominated possession but struggled to break through the determined home defense. VAR initially ruled out a first-half goal from Álvaro Morata due to offside. However, four minutes into the second half, Gavi found the back of the net, prompting another VAR check for offside. This time, the goal was allowed to stand and Spain secured their place in the Euros.

Gavi added, “I believe it was because of Morata, who may or may not have been in an offside position. However, they awarded the goal, and I’m glad about that.”

Norway’s strategy to counter-attack Spain fell short, as they struggled to create meaningful opportunities against the dominant visitors. Spain secured their spot in the finals with two games to spare, effectively minimizing Haaland’s chances to showcase his brilliance on the big stage.

“It was a team effort, from our forwards to the goalkeeper, particularly our defense. The center-backs were outstanding,” said Spain manager Luis de la Fuente. “However, it was a collective effort. It was a complete game.”

“When you possess the right attitude and enthusiasm, you can overcome any challenge. We handled dangerous situations excellently, even against a formidable opponent,” de la Fuente added.

Turkey also sealed their place in the finals with a commanding performance against Latvia, highlighted by a brilliant volley from Yunus Akgün. The visitors fought hard to find an equalizer but ended up collapsing, allowing Turkey to secure their spot with late goals from Cenk Tosun and Kerem Aktürkoglu. With 16 points, Turkey finished at the top of their group, six points ahead of Wales and Croatia. Wales kept their qualifying hopes alive with a 2-1 victory against Croatia in Cardiff.