Games of the day at the U21 European Championship – a successful start for Germany’s youngsters – sport

Group A: Germany defeat Hungary

Germany got off to a successful start in the U21 European Championship. Coach Stefan Kuntz’s team defeated hosts Hungary in Szekesfehervar 3-0. Man of the game was Ridle Baku from VfL Wolfsburg. The 22-year-old prepared Lukas Nmecha’s opening goal (61st) and scored the other two goals himself (66th / 73rd). Without the ailing hope Youssoufa Moukoko, the Germans also revealed weaknesses in the end before the break.

• Romania 1-1 Netherlands

In Budapest, the Netherlands had to be content with a draw against Romania. The lead by Ajax defender Perr Schuurs (16th) equalized Andrei Ciobanu (20th) with a free kick from 25 meters.

Group B: A sure win for Spain

Spain started the group stage with a 3-0 win over co-hosts Slovenia. The Spaniards dominated the first half in Maribor, but the hosts had the better chances. After the break, strikers Javi Puado (53rd minute) and Gonzalo Villar (54th) secured the opening success for the Iberians with a double strike and Juan Miranda (89th).

One of the favorites Italy had to be content with a 1-1 draw against the Czech Republic in Celje. Gianluca Scamacca shot the «Azzurrini» after a remarkable move in the lead (31st). The Czechs equalized by own goal by Italy’s Giulio Maggiore (75th). In the final phase, the four-time Italian senior international Sandro Tonali saw the red card after a kick (84th), Riccardo Marchizza also saw yellow-red (90th + 4).