Spain opened their World Cup campaign in emphatic fashion. A seven-goal victory over Costa Rica came without a single shot against them and showed the rest of the contenders just what they were capable of, if allowed to play their football.
It was also a momentous day for Gavi. The 18-year-old became the youngest ever Spanish player to play at a World Cup, at just 18 years and 110 days.
With his remarkable volley, Gavi also became the youngest Spanish scorer and the third-youngest scorer in World Cup history. The last player to outdo him that respect was none other than Pele.
Those records were matched by a brilliant performance and some remarkable statistics. As Spain dominated the ball, recording 82% possession, Gavi was an instrumental part of their domination with and without the ball.
Gavi's game by numbers vs Costa Rica:
91 touches
90.41%
8 final third entries
7 duels won
5 ball recoveries
5 fouls won
1 assist
1 shot
1 goalWhat. A. Talent. 💫 pic.twitter.com/RPi1Vgumnj
— Squawka (@Squawka) November 23, 2022
It is almost comical to throw back to September of last year, when Gavi made his debut for Spain and Luis Enrique was widely hammered for incorporating a youngster with just a handful of appearances into the national side. He could clearly see what is now evident to all – Gavi is right at home at the highest level.
