Spain pressed on at full pace after the halftime break, carrying the tempo through injuries and fresh rotations. The win was sealed by the young talents Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal, whose dazzling dash and craft lit up the match. Carvajal added two assists, Ferran Torres locked in a brace, and Baena opened the scoring with the day’s first touch in his debut. The celebration ended on a high note with a spectacular finale that left the crowd roaring.
La Roja dominated early, sweeping aside Cyprus with Nico Williams providing two early assists and the Barcelona youngster displaying quick feet and sharp decisions in the first half. The result secured second place and a direct route to Euro 2024, with decisive fixtures against Scotland in Seville and Norway in Oslo looming in October.
Coach Luis de la Fuente expressed frustration after an old defeat in Scotland, opting to protect key players with limited rotation. Only Nico and Lamine were forced substitutions, replacing the injured Olmo and Asensio. The tactical shift was aimed at strengthening aerial duels and build-up play, a plan that paid dividends as the side grew in confidence and scored through a powerful header from the Realist lineup.
Lamine Yamal’s display captivated Los Cármenes from the outset. The teenager showcased a repertoire of dribbles, speed, and pinpoint passes, even attempting a spectacular Olympic-style attempt. The performance delighted Granada fans and signaled a bright future for the national team.
Nico Williams drove the Cypriot defense wild on the left, frequently linking with teammates and forcing errors. In one meaningful sequence, Gavi found the net with his left foot, reinforcing his central role in midfield. Williams emerged as the team’s engine, constantly winning balls, recycling possession, and driving play toward dangerous areas. His influence culminated in a historic milestone as the 1500th goal in the history of the national team was scored through his team’s efforts.
Lamine Yamal Becomes the Youngest European Scorer in 117 Years
The day’s rhythm remained relentless as Morata claimed a second chance, and a brilliant vertical pass from Lamine set up Nico Williams for a one-on-one opportunity. Although the goalkeeper was urged to commit to a pass, the attackers chose to shoot, with Mall’s assistance aiding the sequence.
The momentum did not dampen the spirits of Williams, who kept pressing and sent a header toward Merino’s head for a precise cross, adding a second Spanish goal and another notable assist. The onslaught continued from both sides, with Lamine scoring from a clever double move that followed a save and a strike that grazed the post. Morata also found space, only to be ruled offside in a near-miss moment.
Nico Williams Injured
Spain’s high spirits took a setback with Nico Williams suffering a left adductor strain. After halftime, substitutions were used to preserve the squad’s balance, with Yéremi Pino and Morata replaced by Joselu to bring more strength to the attack and a sharper presence in and around the box. The tactical adjustment sought to reinforce the forward line and keep pressure on the Cyprus defense.
The tempo dipped briefly at the start of the second half, yet Spain remained in control. Cyprus, content to stay compact, faced continued pressure from the home side. De la Fuente signaled for a substitute, easing Yamal off the field for a rest, and Balde came on to provide fresh legs on the left. Ferran Torres also earned another chance as Los Cármenes greeted the sight of a rising star and a team in full flow.
Yéremi Pino then took charge as the most inventive Spain player, weaving through the flanks and creating instability for the Cypriot defense. The Spanish squad persisted, chasing a broader result while maintaining structure and discipline throughout the pitch.
Double Assist from Carvajal
With Lamine unavailable for the moment, Carvajal seized space to support his brother-in-law Joselu Mato. The former Espanyol forward converted with a towering header, extending the lead and underscoring Carvajal’s willingness to contribute in wide areas and inside the box alike.
The match also revealed the involvement of Unai Simón in goal, who calmly nullified Cyprus’ first foray with a well-timed intervention. Carvajal’s next cross found Ferran Torres, who finished with a polished strike as his celebrations echoed through the arena, reaffirming his growing influence in the squad.
Spain appeared dominant as Gavi received applause for his sharp play, and Baena, making his debut, opened his account with immediate impact. The game turned into a display of Spain’s attacking depth, with Ferran Torres capping the night with a standout performance and late support from Rodri that sealed the comfortable finish.
In the end, the night belonged to a Spain side that blended youth and experience to deliver a memorable performance against Cyprus. The result reinforced the squad’s momentum heading into the Euro 2024 campaign, with a clear message that the team’s direction remains strong and forward-looking.