Spain crush Croatia in Euro 2024 as youngster Yamal makes history

Spain kicked off their Euro 2024 campaign in style with a dominant 3-0 victory over Croatia at Berlin’s Olympiastadion.

The first half belonged entirely to La Roja. Alvaro Morata opened the scoring after a delightful pass from Fabian Ruiz, followed by a quickfire second from Ruiz himself.

Dani Carvajal put the game to bed just before halftime, tapping in a cross from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.

Yamal, at just 16 years and 338 days old, became the youngest player ever to start a men’s European Championship match. While he couldn’t add a goal to his assist, he impressed throughout.

The Lamine Yamal show: Spain’s 16-year-old star played an absolute blinder against Croatia#Euro2024 #3SportsGH pic.twitter.com/0YCVN1Q3R8

— #3Sports (@3SportsGh) June 15, 2024

Croatia offered little resistance. Their best chance fell to Josko Gvardiol, but his shot flew just wide. A late penalty shout was also denied after a VAR check for encroachment.

Spain will be brimming with confidence heading into their next group stage match against Italy, while Croatia must regroup before facing Albania.