Pique's late header sees Spain top resolute Czech Republic
Toulouse - Barcelona defender Gerard Pique headed a late winner as defending champion Spain overcame a resolute and determined Czech Republic 1-0 in each side's Group D opener in Toulouse on Monday.
Related - Watch: Pique breaks Czech hearts with 87th-minute winner
Spain's build-up to the tournament was rocked last week when reports claimed goalkeeper David De Gea had been involved in a sexual assault while he was a member of the Under-21 squad in 2012. But manager Vicente del Bosque opted to start the Manchester United shot-stopper regardless, handing him the gloves ahead of legendary Iker Casillas.
Czech coach Pavel Vrba had suggested his men could produce a trick or two to counter the "genius" of Del Bosque's side, but despite some resolute defending, the onslaught of pressure eventually proved too much.
#ESP wins! (Piqué: 87th min goal)
— ESPN Stats & Info (@ESPNStatsInfo) June 13, 2016
4 of Spain's 6 game-winning goals in Group Stage at EUROs 2008, 2012 & 2016 came in the 87th min or later
Spain was frustrated throughout by the Czech's stubborn defensive game, which finally fell apart when Pique got his head to Andres Iniesta's cross towards the back post, where he beat an otherwise unflappable Petr Cech in the 87th minute.