Pique heads Spain to win vs. Czech Republic at Euro 2016
Despite dominating possession against the Czech Republic and seeming in control as it began its second straight European Championship title defense, Spain left it late to net its three points.
Gerard Pique's 87th minute header off a class cross from Andres Iniesta delivered Spain its breakthrough in a 1-0 victory in Toulouse. Spain had a number of chances, including a pair from Alvaro Morata, but Petr Cech was up to the challenge, with the Arsenal goalkeeper and the defense in front of him proving resistant for nearly the entire match.
That is, until Iniesta's ball from the left, which found Pique by the far post.
David De Gea, who started in goal in place of Iker Casillas despite the sexual assault allegations levied against him last week, made a crucial save in the final moments, parrying Vladimir Darida's shot from close range to preserve the win.
Follow along for complete play-by-play, lineups, goalscorers and more in the gamecast below. For up-to-the-minute Euro 2016 standings, schedules and statistics, go to our tournament home.
Croatia beat Turkey 1-0 on a goal from Luka Modric in the group's other opening match and is tied with Spain atop the group.
