Spain had embarked on its usual high-possession attack early in Monday’s Euro 2020 round-of-16 game against Croatia, with La Furia Roja employing a whole lot of passes until it could find a seam in the opposing defense.
Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón’s extremely casual attempt to control a back pass from Pedri was a dismal failure, the own goal giving underdog Croatia a 1-0 lead in the early going. Pedri was credited with the goal, though it was clearly a joint effort.
“One of the strangest goals you’re ever likely to see in a major tournament, or even in a normal game,” ESPN announcer Derek Rae said.