Spain’s U‑21 side booked a direct berth for next year’s European Championship, thrashing Romania (7-1) on Ibiza in a collective masterclass under coach David Gordo, with Atlético de Madrid Rodrigo Mendoza stealing the show. Who could have imagined such a storm?
Mendoza commanded the midfield, threading passes with precision and featuring in several of the U‑21’s goals after an early deficit.
Before halftime he sliced through to Pablo García, who netted the fourth. Mendoza added two strikes early in the second half, and after the 5‑1 lead his shot from outside the box rattled the wood.
He also proved decisive later, drawing a penalty with a dazzling solo run that thrilled the Can Misses crowd; Iker Bravo calmly slotted from the spot.
Atlético’s Salvi Esquivel started as keeper; he couldn’t stop Romania’s opener but produced a couple of spectacular saves thereafter. For my money, his resilience kept the clean‑sheet hopes alive.
Both will travel to Madrid tomorrow, likely rest that day, and on Thursday join Diego Simeone’s staff to prep for Saturday’s clash with Deportivo Alavés at Mendizorroza.