Euro 2016 Recap: Spain Vs Czech Republic

Fulltime: Spain 1-0 Czech Republic

Pique (ESP) 87'

A mouthwatering match-up ushers in the campaign of current European Champions in the Euro 2016 tournament. Spain versus The Czech Republic was always going to be an appealing affair. I picked La Roja as one of the top favourites this year in my preview. But, with a less than convincing qualifying performance, a date with Narodak would be the best acid test.

All Chips In

Spain coach, Vicente Del Bosque, didn't hold his cards close to his chest as to his approach. He fields in Andres Iniesta, Cesc Fabregas, and David Silva; three of the best playmakers in the game today. And, the result on the pitch was obvious at the onset. Spain totally dominated all of the offensive stats, had the lion's share in possession, and took more attempts at goal. Everything worked like clockwork from the back to the front. Petr Cech was called to action several times in the half to fend off shots.

The Czech Republic exhibited one of the toughest defenses in the tournament, at this point. Roman Hubnik and the other defenders worked hard to ensure they neutralize their opponents' intentions. They were quite successful in their enterprise; but sacrificed their own attacking ambitions. Manchester United keeper, David De Gea -who was a surprise starter ahead of number one, Iker Casillas- had barely nothing to do for 45 minutes. An easy stop on a Tomas Necid shot was his highlight reel of the half.

Upset Averted

The 2nd half saw the Czechs showing more industry in moving forward. Captain Tomas Rosicky dictating their offense at the middle cautiously. Their primary objective was still to overcome the passing game of the Spaniards and upset their team rhythm.

The Spanish defense had a relatively peaceful outing. The opposing team hardly had any real intention to test their resolve. This is one of those strange matches where Sergio Ramos didn't get carded or a even stern admonition from the referee. But there was a bizarre minute or two, where the Czechs looked almost to score first in the last quarter of the match. De Gea made a low save from a Hobnik shot. Next, Fabregas made a full-stretch goal line save to prevent a Theodor Gebre Selassie header from converting. Heart-pounding stuff!

Towards the end, Spain was just too persistent. Iniesta, who else, authored a sweet right-foot cross that met the forehead of Gerard Pique in the 87th minute. Cech was helpless as Pique expertly guided the pass from his Barcelona mate beyond reach. One-nil. De Gea was again called to make a routine save late on to preserve the result. And, that was how it ended.

The Bad Tackle

Spain displayed their trademark brand of total control football in this match. A style that has frustrated opponents in recent football history. But, the match also revealed it to be their main weakness. The strategy is so perfect, they don't have any alternative. Opposing teams have scouted them over the years. They were so close to getting punished in this game. The brilliant passers in their line-up would not be enough to see them conquer more skilled opponents. Alvaro Morata is no Diego Costa. He was wasteful at times with his efforts. They only need a consistent striker to take the point, and they would be very dangerous. Only the tenacious desire of true champions got them the deserved three points.

The Czech Republic showcased a very formidable mode of choking defense. To blank-out a team overflowing with talent for 87 minutes is no minuscule feat. To surrender a goal so late in the game was very frustrating. It was written all over Rosicky's face as he sat in the dugout, pondering on what could have beens. Overall, it was a gallant and commendable performance. The encounter with Croatia should be a tasteful treat.