César Tárrega’s Late Header Seals Victory
Spain U21 secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over hosts Slovakia U21 in their opening Group A clash at the 2025 UEFA European Under-21 Championship, thanks to a stoppage-time winner from defender César Tárrega. Despite dominating possession and racing to a two-goal lead, Spain were pegged back by a spirited Slovakian comeback before clinching all three points in the dying moments.
First-Half Dominance: Spain Take Early Control
Spain wasted no time asserting their authority at the Tehelné Pole Stadium in Bratislava. The young La Roja side, led by head coach Santi Denia, controlled the tempo with slick passing and relentless pressing. Their efforts paid off in the 16th minute when Marc Pubill opened the scoring, finishing off a well-orchestrated move assisted by Diego López.
Just two minutes later, Mateo Joseph doubled Spain’s lead with a composed finish after a clever through ball from Juanlu Sánchez. At 2-0, Spain looked in complete control, boasting over 64% possession and creating multiple chances through the flanks and midfield
Slovakia’s Stunning Comeback
Despite being outplayed for much of the first half, Slovakia emerged from the break with renewed energy and belief. In the 48th minute, Samuel Kopásek pulled one back with a close-range finish after a defensive lapse from Spain. The momentum shifted dramatically, and just five minutes later, Tomáš Suslov converted a penalty to level the score at 2-2, sending the home crowd into a frenzy.
Slovakia’s resilience was on full display as they absorbed pressure and launched dangerous counterattacks. Goalkeeper Lubomír Belko made several key saves to keep the scoreline level, while defenders Jakubko and Javorcek made crucial blocks to deny Spain a third.
Late Drama: Tárrega’s Heroics in Stoppage Time
As the match approached full-time, Spain pushed forward in search of a winner. Their persistence paid off in the 90th minute when César Tárrega rose highest to head home from a corner delivered by Javi Guerra. The goal silenced the Slovakian fans and restored Spain’s lead at the death.
Despite a flurry of late corners and a near miss from Slovakia’s Belko in added time, Spain held on to claim a vital three points in what could prove to be one of the tournament’s most dramatic group stage matches.
Key Stats and Tactical Insights
- Possession: Spain 64.3% – Slovakia 35.7%
- Shots on Target: Spain 8 – Slovakia 6
- Corners: Spain 8 – Slovakia 1
- Man of the Match: César Tárrega (Spain) – match-winning goal and defensive leadership
Spain’s fluid 4-3-3 formation allowed them to dominate midfield exchanges, with Beñat Turrientes and Javi Guerra dictating play. However, lapses in concentration nearly cost them, highlighting areas for improvement ahead of their next match.
What This Means for Group A
With this win, Spain join Ukraine at the top of Group A, while Slovakia will need a result in their next match to keep knockout hopes alive. The group remains wide open, but Spain’s ability to grind out a win under pressure could prove crucial in the long run.
Final Thoughts
Spain U21’s 3-2 win over Slovakia U21 was a rollercoaster of emotions—dominance, complacency, and redemption all packed into 90+ minutes. While the hosts earned plaudits for their fightback, it was Spain’s quality and depth that ultimately made the difference. With players like Mateo Joseph, Marc Pubill, and César Tárrega stepping up, La Roja’s U21s have sent a clear message: they’re here to contend.
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