Spain's under 21 side took their first step to a place in next summer's European finals with a 2-1 victory over Croatia in the first leg of their play-off. Adrián brought a good save out of Kelava before he ran on to Thiago's pass to turn a shot past the keeper in the twentieth minute. Just a minute later though Croatia equalised, De Gea saving Kalinic's shot from a cross by Tomecak, but Skolnik steering the rebound past the keeper. San José restored the lead shortly before half time with a header from a Dani Parejo corner, but the hosts were unable to add to the scoreline after that, Mata in particular failing to beat the keeper when free on goal with two minutes to go. A win to take in to next Tuesday's second leg, but the away goal by the visitors means they are by no means sure of going through. (09.10.10)