[2024 European Cup ]Dark humor? Spain's lock on first place in the group could ironically complicate their knockout stage prospects, leaving Italy unexpectedly in a favorable position.

In the second round of Euro 2024 Group B matches, Spain edged Italy 1-0, securing their position as group winners in advance, while Italy is likely to advance as group runners-up. However, looking ahead to the knockout stage, Spain may face a more challenging situation than Italy.

After securing first place in their group, Spain will face one of the third-placed teams from Groups A, D, E, or F in the Round of 16. With Spain's strength, progressing past this stage should not be a significant issue against any of these opponents. However, if Spain advances to the quarter-finals, they could potentially meet the first-placed team from Group A, likely the in-form host nation Germany. So far in this Euro 2024, Germany and Spain have shown the best form, making a victory against the hosts a daunting task for Spain.

On the other hand, Italy, after losing this match, is likely to advance as the second-placed team in their group. In the Round of 16, they would face the second-placed team from Group A, potentially Switzerland or Scotland, neither of whom are traditional powerhouses and lack significant experience in major tournaments. In the quarter-finals, Italy could then face the winner of Group C, currently the struggling England. Therefore, Italy may actually have a better chance than Spain to go further in the tournament.