(Reuters) – Spain moved closer to securing first place in Group A of their Euro 2024 qualifying campaign after easily defeating Cyprus 3-1 on Thursday. The victory brought Spain to 18 points with one game remaining, putting them two points ahead of second-place Scotland, who had already qualified and were held to a 2-2 draw in Georgia.
Spain’s manager Luis de la Fuente decided to rest many regular starters against Cyprus and his backup team had no trouble with the home team. Sixteen-year-old Lamine Yamal opened the scoring with a close-range shot in the fifth minute. Mikel Oyarzabal doubled the lead with a goal in the 22nd minute, and Joselu scored the third six minutes later with a first-touch finish from a corner. Kostas Pileas scored a consolation goal for Cyprus late in the second half.
The result put Spain in a strong position to finish at the top of their qualifying group, setting them up well for the Euro 2024 tournament. The team has performed solidly throughout qualifying and will be hoping to carry that form into the tournament itself.
Scotland’s draw in Georgia means that they are still in contention for the top spot, but Spain’s strong position puts them in the driver’s seat. The team will be looking to finish their qualifying campaign on a high note and carry that momentum into the tournament.
The match against Cyprus also provided an opportunity for some of Spain’s younger players to get valuable experience at the international level. The team’s depth and talent bode well for their chances at Euro 2024.
Spain will be aiming to finish their qualifying campaign with a perfect record, which would send a strong message to their rivals ahead of the tournament. Their dominance in qualifying has made them a team to watch in Euro 2024.
(Reporting by Fernando Kallas; Editing by Julien Pretot)
