No Bonmati, no problem - Spain put down major Euros marker

The whispers had grown louder in recent weeks, a growing murmur among pundits and fans alike. Could Spain truly conquer Euro 2025 without their reigning Ballon d'Or winner, Aitana Bonmatí? The midfield maestro, a lynchpin of their recent successes, was a glaring omission from the squad, leading many to question the defending champions' vulnerability. Yet, any lingering doubts about La Roja’s potency were not just dispelled, but utterly obliterated, a mere 87 seconds into their tournament opener against Portugal.

From the very first whistle, Spain played with a ferocious intensity that belied any pre-match anxieties. They swarmed the Portuguese midfield, pressing high and moving the ball with a familiar, almost telepathic fluidity. The opening goal, a clinical finish born from a rapid transition and exquisite link-up play, served as a thunderclap warning to the rest of Europe. It wasn't just the speed of the goal, but the collective effort behind it that truly resonated. It was a statement: this Spanish side is not defined by one individual, but by a deep well of talent and an unwavering commitment to their intricate, possession-based philosophy. The early strike set the tone for a performance that was as dominant as it was emphatic, showcasing a team that has clearly adapted and thrived in the face of adversity.

Portugal, for all their resilience, found themselves chasing shadows for much of the encounter. Spain controlled the tempo, dictated the spaces, and demonstrated a tactical maturity that suggested they are not merely relying on past glories but are evolving. Substitutions were seamless, maintaining the high press and relentless attacking waves, proving the depth of their bench. The defensive unit, often overshadowed by the attacking flair, was equally impressive, snuffing out any nascent Portuguese threats with disciplined positioning and sharp interceptions. This comprehensive display, both offensively and defensively, underscored their credentials as tournament frontrunners.

This commanding victory against a capable Portuguese side sends an unequivocal message across the continent. Spain’s Euro 2025 campaign has begun not with a tentative step, but with a powerful stride, asserting their dominance and silencing the skeptics. They proved that their strength lies in their system, their collective understanding, and the sheer quality distributed across the pitch. While Bonmatí’s absence might have created a void, it appears to have galvanized a team determined to prove its collective might. The journey for the European crown has just begun, but Spain has already laid down a formidable marker, indicating they are very much the team to beat.