Spain 2-1 Norway: 3 takeaways from the match

#1 Spain changed their shape, as midfielders struggled to create

Morata in action against Norway

Spain's inexperienced central midfielders struggled to create goalscoring opportunities and provide crucial through balls into their forward players. Both Ceballos and Parejo predominantly remained in the middle third for sustained periods and consequently, their attackers lacked regular service in the final third.

Needing at least one of their central midfielders to play more assertively, the second-half saw Morata take advantage of a defensive mistake before goalkeeper Rune Jarstein hauled him to the ground in the area. Ramos converted from the spot, before Spain's forwards fell back into the middle to collect passes and switched their formation to a 4-4-2, where Asensio switched to the left midfield and Rodrigo partnered Morata on the right-hand side.

Morata had a decent individual outing, earning a penalty while also persisting in his efforts to trouble the Norwegian backline with incisive runs. He missed a few promising opportunities too, but it was an encouraging all-round display.