Spain's attempt to claim their third consecutive European Championship title is on track after Gerard Pique's 87th-minute goal against the Czech Republic.

Vicente del Bosque's side kicked-off their UEFA Euro 2016 campaign with an important victory, as they clinched three points in their opening game in Group D.

After a collective defense from the Czech Republic, patience was key for the Spaniards to break down their strong wall in order to put the ball in the back of the net. La Roja managed to do so in the final minutes of the match, as they gained their first-ever victory in an opening game of a major international tournament.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Spain head boss Del Bosque praised his players' attitude and their composure throughout the match.

"The first thing that's important is to get the three points. The second thing is the players' attitude. Believing in the victory is important for winning.

"We created a lot of chances, and we hope finishing will not be a problem. We had the game completely under control, and that's the most important thing. Everyone wants to score more goals, but our style hasn't been too bad in recent years. It's fantastic we have great midfielders, and if the forwards have to move, then they have to move and interpret what their team-mates are doing."

Gerard Pique, who scored the winning goal against Pavel Vrba's men, was ecstatic for the win and hailed his team-mates for their great performance.

"Of course, it's a massive thing to score the goal that gives us the win, but we all performed very well – we managed to play very well both at the back and up front. If you can play and attack well, that means you open up the pitch and can find a way through, even if the opposition are defending really deep. That's the way you create chances: by creating space."

   Gerard Pique celebrating his fifth goal for SpainGerard-Pique

Spain's next challenge will be against Turkey, as La Furia Roja will go-head-to-head with Arda Turan and Co. at the Allianz Riviera on June 17.

 

Match details, result and original broadcast info

Spain 3 - 0 Turkey

June 17, 2016 3:00pmAllianz Riviera

This match has ended. Below are the original Live broadcast details for this match.

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