Spain have kicked off their World Cup 2022 in style, heading into the half time break 3-0 to the good against a dismal Costa Rica outfit, and leaving plenty claiming that they will win the entire competition.
Following Japan’s shock win over Germany earlier in the day, all eyes turned to Luis Enrique’s side to see if they would suffer a similar upset against Costa Rica, the other two sides in Group E.
But, that never looked like happening, and Spain dominated the ball from the first whistle, opening the scoring after just 11 minutes when Dani Olmo fired into the corner past Keylor Navas.
The lead was doubled midway through the first half, as Marco Asensio swept home from the edge of the penalty area, before Jordi Alba was fouled in the area, allowing Ferran Torres to step up and slot home from the penalty spot just after the half-hour mark.
In truth, their opponents couldn’t get near them, chasing shadows for much of the encounter and dispelling any fears that Spain would follow Germany and Argentina in being on the wrong end of a shock result in their group opener.
And, the football on show led many to take to social media to claim that this was the most impressive World Cup performance to date, and that they are now favourites for the competition.
SPAIN WORLD CUP WINNER 2022
— Ivo (@Ivaan1304) November 23, 2022
Spain are potential winners of this tournament! Wonderful football! #WorldCup
— Noel Ngoloma (@NoelNgoloma) November 23, 2022
Spain are brilliant, they move the ball like a club side. Elite technicians + the best manager at the tournament. They’re my winners for a reason.
— Sanjay (@nufcsanjay) November 23, 2022
Spain were my winners pre-tournament, and I’m seeing nothing to doubt just yet. Wow.
— Jamie Kemble (@JamieKemble) November 23, 2022
We shouldn’t write off Spain as potential winners.
— Sweet SZN (@sweet_szn) November 23, 2022
Spain are the first team I’ve seen properly press off the ball, they could be serious contenders!
— Sheku™ (@JustSheku) November 23, 2022
Spain by far the best team we’ve seen so far.
— Ben (@AFCBtommo) November 23, 2022
