Spain secured their berth at Euro 2024 after Gavi scored a second-half goal to beat Norway 1-0 away on Sunday, joined by Group A rivals Scotland and Türkiye from Group D.
Earlier on Saturday, France, Portugal and Belgium became the first three teams to qualify for the quadrennial event set to take place in Germany from June 14 to July 14, 2024.
Spain's Gavi celebrates after scoring for his side during the Euro 2024 qualifier against Norway in Oslo, Norway, October 15, 2023. /CFP
Spain's Gavi celebrates after scoring for his side during the Euro 2024 qualifier against Norway in Oslo, Norway, October 15, 2023. /CFP
Gavi's only goal against Norway secured his side's qualification and Scotland's, while Norway sit third in the Group on 10 points having played a game more. Meanwhile, Türkiye thrashed Latvia 4-0 to make sure they will finish among the qualifying places.
Spain dominated possession, but struggled to break down a resolute home defense, and it looked like the video assistant referee (VAR) might prevent them from booking their Euro berth when Alvaro Morata had a first-half goal ruled out for an offside.
The Spain striker was again the center of attention when midfielder Gavi fired home four minutes after the break and another VAR offside check ensued, but this time he was in the clear and the goal was allowed to stand.
Norway set up to hit Spain on the break, but struggled to create much in attack as the visitors kept striker Erling Haaland shackled to reach the finals with two games to spare.
(With input from Reuters)