The buildup to the match was defined by unprecedented drama off the pitch:

was hastily appointed to lead a squad of favorites whose preparation had been thrown into total disarray. A Masterclass from Cristiano Ronaldo

The match itself became a showcase for , who delivered a legendary hat-trick: Group B's heavyweight showdown as Ronaldo faces Ramos

: Just two days before their opening match, Spain sensationally sacked their manager, Julen Lopetegui , after it was revealed he had accepted the Real Madrid job without informing the federation.