Spain, the reigning world champions, secured a convincing 5-0 victory over Portugal in the opening match of the European Women’s Championship Group B in Bern. Prior to kick-off, a minute's silence was observed in honor of the late Diogo Jota, who tragically passed away in a car accident.
Both teams wore black armbands as a mark of respect, with some fans displaying tributes to the Liverpool striker Jota, who lost his life in the accident alongside his younger brother Andre Silva.
The Spanish team started strong, scoring two goals within the first seven minutes of the game.
Esther Gonzalez took advantage of Portugal's high defensive line when she received a long ball over the top from Olga Carmona and found the back of the net past Ines Pereira just 90 seconds into the match.
Before Portugal could recover, they fell further behind as 18-year-old Vicky Lopez converted a pass from Arsenal forward Mariona Caldentey across the six-yard box.
Spain, who famously defeated European champions England in the 2023 World Cup final, continued to press forward, with Barcelona winger Lopez missing two chances from the edge of the Portugal box.
In the 20th minute, Portuguese fans honored Jota by chanting his name, recognizing his contribution to the sport while playing for Liverpool.
Spain added two more quick goals just before half-time within a span of two minutes.
Alexia Putellas scored the third goal in the 41st minute by cutting inside and finding the back of the net, followed by Claudia Pina's cross from the left which set up Gonzalez for her second goal of the night.
With a comfortable lead established, Portugal showed a much better defensive performance in the second half, limiting Spain's chances near the penalty area.
Portugal created a threat of their own in the latter stages of the game, with Ana Capeta sending a shot over the bar after a lofted ball into the Spanish box.
The Ballon d’Or recipient Aitana Bonmati, who recently recovered from viral meningitis, made a brief appearance in the final nine minutes of the match.
Spain sealed an impressive display as substitute Cristina Martin-Prieto scored with a header at the far post from a cross by Salma Paralluelo.