For the first time in 137 games, Spain did not complete as many passes as their opponents, and they could not be happier. The last time they “lost” possession was the final of Euro 2008 when they beat Germany to begin their most successful era at the feet of their greatest generation. This time – with no one left from Vienna and winger Lamine Yamal becoming the youngest footballer this competition has seen, a kid of 16 years and 338 days who was not even a year old back then – they defeated Croatia 3-0, bringing hope that maybe they can go back.
This was a new beginning, a new generation. And while it would be wise not to rule out another false dawn, the coach, Luis de la Fuente, insisting they would apply a “long view” their “feet on the ground”, it was quite something. Something different, for a start: fast, incisive and effective. Lamine Yamal on one wing, the 21-year-old Nico Williams on the other, Rodri and Fabián Ruiz impressing in the middle, Spain opened the group of death with a flash of life. Goals from Álvaro Morata, Ruiz and Dani Carvajal completed victory before the first half was out to reinforce suggestions that there might be a different direction they can take.
