Euro 2016 – Three Key Talking Points – Spain vs Czech Republic

Euro 2016 – Three Key Talking Points – Spain vs Czech Republic

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Spain and Czech Republic will begin their respective Euro 2016 campaigns in Toulouse, with the defending champions looking to begin their bid for a third successive title.

Alvaro Morata’s chance to impress

Since David Villa and Fernando Torres lost their touch at international level, Spain have lacked a true number nine which is ultimately which led to their disastrous 2014 World Cup campaign. Vincente Del Bosque’s decision to omit out of form frontman Diego Costa means that Juventus striker Alvaro Morata has a chance to fill the void left by Villa and Torres. With two goals in the recent warmup friendly against South Korea, the 23-year-old will be hoping to make his mark on the big stage.

Morata's big chance has arrived
Morata’s big opportunity has arrived

Can the old-guard inspire the Czech Republic?

Despite boasting some decent young players in Ladislav Krejci and Vladimir Darida, the spotlight will be on the Czech Republic’s older generation as they look to have an impact in what could possibly be their final major tournament. Petr Cech, Tomas Rosicky, and Jaroslav Plasil have been involved in the national setup for many years and all featured at the tournament 12 years ago in 2004 when they helped their side to the semi-finals before losing to eventual champions Greece. All three are once again expected to play a key role as they look to lead their country to similar heights, albeit this time at much larger odds.

READ MORE: Euro 2016 Hub

How far can Spain go this time around?

On paper at least, this Spanish team is no longer the star-studded outfit that won three major tournaments between 2008 and 2012, but they still boast a dangerous lineup and you write them off at your peril. Aging stars Iker Casillas, Andres Iniesta and Sergio Ramos are well aware of what it takes to be successful at this level, and those three will once again be expected to spearhead another charge for the trophy. If Spain are to make it three European Championship titles in a row, they will need to beat stronger teams than the Czech Republic, but nonetheless a resounding win to start the tournament will underline their credentials and let their rivals know that this great era of Spanish football is not over yet.

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