UEFA Euro 2016: Spain, Italy labour to victories; Ireland, Sweden play out draw

Defending European champions Spain began their UEFA Euro 2016 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win against Czech Republic in Toulouse on Monday, 13 June.

Having dominated the game against a well-organised Czech Republic side, Spain had to wait until the 87th minute, when centre-back Gerard Pique finished from close range, to seal victory.

In the second game of the day, Ireland put on an inspired performance against Sweden and took the lead through Wes Hoolahan in the 48th minute.

However, in the 71st minute, Ciaran Clark inadvertently put a Zlatan Ibrahimovic cross inside his own net to level the scores. The game finished 1-1.

Meanwhile, 2012 finalists Italy started their campaign in France with a surprise 2-0 win over heavyweights Belgium.

Playing a compact formation, Italy managed to subdue the prolific Belgian strikeforce, with Emanuele Giaccherini and Graziano Pelle scoring for the former to ensure three points.

Results:

Spain 1-0 Czech Republic

Ireland 1-1 Sweden

Belgium 0-2 Italy