Tow goals apiece for the attacking duo and a tap-in from Stefan de Vrij left Vicente del Bisque's men totally torn apart in the first game of their title defense Andres Iniesta scored in extra-time to give Spain a 1-0 win and the trophy in South Africa four years ago, and it appeared the same result was on the cards in Salvador when Xabi Alonso powered home a first-half penalty.
Things went from bad to worse for the world champions when Stefan de Vrij nodded home a third on 64 minutes, before Van Persie and Robben netted again to complete a remarkable rout in Group B's opening fixture and cost further doubt over Spain's chances of winning their fourth straight major tournament.
Costa's impact on their system was evident, too as Spain opted for a more direct approach than in previous tournaments.
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| Robben |
Things went from bad to worse for the world champions when Stefan de Vrij nodded home a third on 64 minutes, before Van Persie and Robben netted again to complete a remarkable rout in Group B's opening fixture and cost further doubt over Spain's chances of winning their fourth straight major tournament.
Costa's impact on their system was evident, too as Spain opted for a more direct approach than in previous tournaments.
