March 26, (THEWILL) – Spain kicked off their Euro 2024 qualification campaign with a 3-0 win over Norway at La Rosaleda, thanks to a late brace from debutant Joselu.
The visitors, without star striker, Erling Haaland, wasted several chances throughout the match, but it was Joselu, who punished them in the end. Luis de la Fuente, appointed as Luis Enrique’s successor after Spain’s World Cup elimination, named an unfamiliar starting XI, with Dani Olmo scoring the opening goal in just the 13th minute.
Although Spain looked shaky at times, they managed to hold Norway at bay, thanks to some excellent saves from Kepa Arrizabalaga and a big miss from Alexander Sorloth. They were lucky to escape early in the second half when Marcus Pedersen’s goal-bound effort was deflected, but they held on and capitalised on their opportunity.
Joselu, who came on as a substitute, nodded in Fabian Ruiz’s cross from deep before smashing home from close range to seal a memorable debut. Spain will now face Scotland at Hampden Park, while Norway will play Georgia in Batumi, both on Tuesday.
Despite the win, Spain will need to improve their performance if they want to make a statement in the European Championships.
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
