Three months after being jeered by a section of Spain supporters, Alvaro Morata kickstarted Spain's Euro 2024 campaign with a crucial opening goal in a convincing 3-0 victory against Croatia on Saturday. Despite being frequently criticized for Spain's absence of a top-tier number nine, the Atletico Madrid striker ensured a flawless beginning for the three-time champions, La Roja, in Berlin. Morata, who has played for major European clubs like Juventus, Real Madrid, and Chelsea, has yet to fully convince critics or become the consistent scoring threat many anticipated. Although he exited the game after 67 minutes due to a minor injury, Morata assured post-match that he would be ready for Spain's next encounter against Italy, the Euro 2020 champions, on Thursday in Gelsenkirchen. His goal, which came after a precise pass from Fabian Ruiz, marked a significant moment as Spain dominated possession. Morata's composure in front of goal, using his weaker left foot, demonstrated his clinical finishing. His contribution was pivotal, as Spain went on to score two more goals, with Ruiz and Dani Carvajal also finding the net. Morata's goal also elevated him to the fourth highest Spanish international goal scorer with 36 goals, trailing David Villa, Raul, and Fernando Torres. Additionally, he tied for third in Euros goal scoring with Alan Shearer and Antoine Griezmann. Despite these achievements, Morata faced whistles from fans during a friendly against Brazil in March. Spain's coach, Luis de la Fuente, expressed his disappointment over the treatment of Morata, emphasizing the importance of national pride. Morata's performance against Croatia was a significant boost for Spain's morale, despite being outnumbered by Croatian fans at the Olympiastadion. The striker's form has been mixed, with only two goals in his last 13 La Liga appearances for Atletico Madrid, but a strong showing in a recent friendly against Northern Ireland suggests he is ready to make an impact this summer. Despite a calf injury, Morata is eager to face Italy next.