Spain’s under 21 side began the European Championship with a resounding 5-0 victory over Macedonia. Saúl Ñíguez started things off early on with a spectacular overhead kick, and Marco Alonso added a second with a long shot after Deulofeu’s effort was blocked soon afterwards. Kepa still had a couple of saves to make, but shortly before half time Deulofeu made it three from the penalty spot (a record 17 th for his country at this level) after Bejtulai handled in the area, and Asensio added a fourth some ten minutes in to the second half. Ex Barcelona forward Babunski hit the bar at the other end, but with twenty minutes to go Asensio ran through from his own half to complete a hat-trick and take the Man of the Match award. Spain now go on to play Portugal, who also won their opening game. (17.06.17)