Spain Triumphs Over Croatia With A 3-0 Win In EURO 2024 Group B Opener

Spain commenced their UEFA EURO 2024 campaign with a commanding 3-0 victory over Croatia in Berlin, marking an impressive start in Group B. First-half goals from Álvaro Morata, Fabián Ruiz, and Dani Carvajal secured the win for La Roja.

Spain dominated the early stages of the match, taking the lead 29 minutes in. Fabián Ruiz delivered a precise pass to Álvaro Morata, who finished coolly for his seventh EURO finals goal, three of which have been against Croatia. Minutes later, Ruiz transitioned from provider to scorer, twisting in the box before firing into the bottom-right corner.

Spain's 16-year-old winger Lamine Yamal made history by becoming the youngest player to feature at a EURO. Just before half-time, Yamal's cross was turned in by Dani Carvajal, capping off a superb first period for Luis de la Fuente's side. Yamal continued to impress in the second half but was denied a goal by a brilliant save from Dominik Livaković.

Croatia's Response and Missed Opportunity

Croatia responded well to Spain's quickfire double, with Joško Gvardiol testing Unai Simón and Ante Budimir nearly capitalising on the rebound. Croatia were handed a lifeline when Rodri fouled Bruno Petković in the box with ten minutes remaining. However, Simón saved Petković's penalty, preserving Spain's clean sheet.

This victory marks Spain's third triumph against Croatia in four consecutive EURO finals meetings. The win sets a strong foundation for La Roja as they continue their campaign in Group B.

With inputs from WAM