Alvaro Morata's goal against Croatia put him joint-third in the all-time European Championship scoring chart on seven, behind only Michel Platini (nine) and Cristiano Ronaldo (14).

Yamal was involved in the build-up to Fabian's goal and provided the assist for the third when his superb cross was poked in by Real Madrid defender Dani Carvajal for his first international goal, only two weeks after he scored in the Champions League final.

Croatia, led by 38-year-old Luka Modric, playing in his ninth major tournament, surprisingly had a higher share of possession than Spain but their defensive sloppiness was ruthlessly punished and, at the other end, they failed to capitalise on their openings.

Marc Cucurella cleared a Josip Stanisic effort off the line in the second half and Croatia then saw a late goal ruled out for encroachment after substitute Bruno Petkovic had won a penalty off Rodri following an error by Unai Simon, then scored from the rebound after the Spain goalkeeper saved his spot-kick.

The result represents a near-perfect start to the tournament for Spain, the only concern being an apparent knock to Rodri which saw the Manchester City midfielder substituted late on.