The Spanish national team faces a monumental challenge in the Euro 2024 quarter-finals against Germany next Friday, aiming to overcome the tournament hosts, a feat they have achieved only once in their history – defeating Italy in the 2020-21 Nations League semi-finals.

A first-half brace by Ferran Torres under Luis Enrique Martinez's management led Spain to a 2-1 victory over Roberto Mancini's side at San Siro, breaking through the host's defense to reach the final, where they eventually fell 1-2 to a controversial Kylian Mbappe goal. This incident, which would be ruled offside today, sparked a change in refereeing regulations.

Aside from that instance, Spain's national team has struggled against tournament hosts throughout its history. Whether in 90 minutes, extra time, or penalties, they have often been left disappointed and eliminated. 

This tale of setbacks dates back to the 1934 World Cup quarter-finals in Florence, where Spain endured injuries and a draw with Italy before losing in the replay.

Similar fates awaited them in subsequent World Cups and European Championships, including a resounding defeat by Brazil in the 1950 World Cup second phase and controversial decisions against South Korea in the 2002 World Cup quarters. 

More recent heartbreak came in the 2018 World Cup with a penalty shootout loss to Russia, despite early promise.

Spain's struggles extend to Euro competitions as well, such as their early exit in Euro 1980 after failing to win against Italy and subsequent losses to France and Germany in later tournaments. 

Despite moments of brilliance, like reaching the 2013 Confederations Cup final, where they succumbed to Brazil, overcoming hosts remains a formidable challenge for La Roja.