Spain commenced their Euro 2024 campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Croatia in Berlin on Saturday.
Alvaro Morata’s goal and a standout performance from Lamine Yamal, who became the youngest player in the competition’s history, highlighted the match.
The three-time European champions, often criticized for their lack of offensive prowess in recent tournaments, delivered a striking display at the Olympiastadion, dismantling a lackluster Croatian side.
Morata opened the scoring in the 29th minute, marking his seventh goal in the Euros, placing him third on the all-time list alongside Alan Shearer and Antoine Griezmann. Fabian Ruiz soon doubled the lead with a brilliant solo effort.
Yamal, just 16 years and 338 days old, made history and assisted Dani Carvajal's goal just before half-time, effectively securing the win. Croatia’s Bruno Petkovic missed a late penalty, adding to their woes.
This match, a repeat of last year's Nations League final won by Spain on penalties, suggests that La Roja is poised to challenge for a record-breaking fourth European Championship title. Meanwhile, World Cup semi-finalists Croatia face a tough road ahead in Group B, with games against Albania and defending champions Italy.
Croatia's talisman, Luka Modric, was substituted midway through the second half, reflecting their struggles. Spain's coach Luis de la Fuente fielded an exciting lineup, including young talents like Nico Williams and Yamal.
Despite strong support from their fans, Croatia started sluggishly, allowing Spain to dominate possession. Ruiz's assist for Morata’s opener and his own goal shortly after placed Spain firmly in control.
Although Croatia created some opportunities, Spain’s defense, bolstered by Unai Simon’s saves and Marc Cucurella's crucial block, maintained a clean sheet. Carvajal sealed the victory with a goal in first-half stoppage time, assisted by Yamal.
Spain's versatility and dynamic play under De la Fuente were on full display, as they secured a convincing win to kick off their Euro 2024 journey.