Euro 2024: Spain Crushes Croatia 3-0 in Dominant Group B Opening Match
New Delhi: Spain outplayed Croatia 3-0, netting three stunner goals in the first half of the game to earn maximum three points in their Group B opener on Saturday and announced themselves as potential title contenders.
The Spaniards, eyeing a record fourth Euro title, scored two times in the span of just three minutes, with Fabian Ruiz delivering a masterclass, as he provided an assist to Captain Alvaro Morata in the 29th minute before he scored a stunner in the 32nd minute.
Dani Carvajal volleyed in from 16-year-old Lamine Yamal’s assist, the wonderkid becoming the youngest player to appear at the European Championship.
The Croats, eager to replicate their recent World Cup success at the Euros—where they’ve never won a knockout game—found themselves outmatched by Spain’s clever attacking play. Despite their best efforts, Croatia’s defensive strategies began to crumble about half an hour into the match. Coach Zlatko Dalic’s meticulously crafted plans fell apart, leaving his team unable to contain Spain’s relentless pressure and tactical superiority. The Croats’ hopes of advancing were dashed as Spain took control of the game, showcasing their skill and cohesive teamwork.
“We pressed high with a relentless pace from the beginning, and it worked in our favour against a great team,” Morata said.
“That’s what we have to do, start the game pressuring and cornering our rivals. I thought the team looked good. Now we have to think about the next one,” he added.
Croatia did create a triple chance, but neither Budimir nor Josip Stanisic could push the ball over the line.
This led to an 80th-minute penalty, which Spain keeper Unai Simon saved from Bruno Petkovic. Petkovic managed to put the ball in the net on the rebound, but his effort was ruled out for encroachment.
Spain, defeated Croatia on penalties to win the Nations League last year, will face Italy next, while Croatia will lock horns with Albania.
Although Croatian fans outnumbered Spain supporters in the vast Olympiastadion by at least 10 to one, it was the Spaniards who seized the initiative with their high-pressing game.