Spain begin EURO 2024 campaign on a perfect note; Maul Croatia 3-0

 Lamine Yamal became the youngest player to appear in a European Championship as Spain’s new generation brushed aside Croatia’s challenge 3-0 in their opening game on Saturday.

Yamal, aged 16 years, 338 days, also became the youngest to set up a goal at the tournament when he crossed for Dani Carvajal to score Spain’s third goal before the break.

The 21-year-old Nico Williams starred on the other flank for Spain, which is going for its fourth European title.

Midfielder Fabián Ruiz scored one goal and set up the opener for captain Álvaro Morata in a dominant performance from the team in red.

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simón saved a penalty in the 80th from substitute Bruno Petković, who thought he scored when Ivan Perišić sent in the rebound. But the goal was ruled out after a VAR review as Perišić was too keen and encroached on the penalty area before Petković took the spot kick.

Defending champion Italy was playing Albania in the other Group B game later.