They launched their UEFA Euro 2024 campaign in emphatic fashion, cruising past Croatia 3-0 in their Group B clash. First-half goals from Alvaro Morata, Fabian Ruiz and Daniel Carvajal proved that Spain are an attacking force to be reckoned with.
The game, understandably tight given that both Spain and Croatia had had long and rich histories in the tournament, was seized by an early advantage brought along by the Spanish. From a Fabian Ruiz lovely pass in the 29th minute, Morata kept his cool by scoring his seventh Euro finals goal against Croatia. Not long after, the provider turned into a scorer with an excellent finish from Ruiz to increase Spain's lead.
Despite Croatia's best efforts to respond, with Ante Budimir going close and Josko Gvardiol forcing a sharp save from Unai Simon, Spain remained on top. The cynics were briefly silenced shortly before half-time as 16-year-old Lamine Yamal replaced Pedri to become the youngest player ever to feature in a European Championship match. He played a part in handing Spain a three-goal cushion at the break, his cross finished off by Daniel Carvajal.
In the second half, the menacing Yamal was just a brilliant Domink Livakovic save short of becoming the youngest ever Euro scorer. When Rodri fouled Bruno Petkovic in the box, Croatia had a chance to pull one back, but the Spanish clean sheet was protected by Simon's penalty save.
Then, Croatia regroups for the next match against Albania while Spain readies against another former champion, Italy in their match.
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