Euro 2024: Spain crush Croatia to make perfect start
Spain began their quest for a fourth European Championship title with an impressive victory over Croatia at the Olympiastadion in Berlin. SportsRation reports.
First-half goals from Alvaro Morata, Fabian Ruiz, and Dani Carvajal set the tone, effectively deciding the match before halftime. Croatia struggled to mount a significant challenge, making this a statement win for Spain.
Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal made history as the youngest player to start in the Euros at 16 years and 338 days. However, it was Spain’s most experienced player, Alvaro Morata, who opened the scoring. Ruiz’s perfect pass allowed Morata to race through and score his 36th goal for Spain, silencing the Croatian fans.
Spain quickly extended their lead when Ruiz scored after beating two defenders and seeing his shot deflect off Josip Sutalo past Dominik Livakovic. Despite a close attempt from Croatia’s Josko Gvardiol, Spain continued to dominate, with Carvajal adding a third goal from a Yamal cross in first-half stoppage time.
Yamal nearly scored himself early in the second half, but Livakovic made a superb save. Croatia’s Bruno Petkovic had a penalty saved by Unai Simon, and his follow-up goal was disallowed for encroachment.
Croatia, semifinalists at the 2022 World Cup, must regroup for their next match against Albania in Hamburg. Spain will face defending champions Italy in a highly anticipated match in Gelsenkirchen.
Spain demonstrated both attacking prowess and defensive resilience, with Marc Cucurella notably blocking a goal-bound shot from Lovro Majer. Spain’s performance has solidified their status as serious contenders for the title.
