Russia snuffed out by marauding Spanish comeback 

Spain U-21 4-1 Russia U-21
Under-21 European Championships qualifier
Friday 3 September, Almendralejo

Goals: Spain - Nino 13', 54' Pino 47', 87'; Russia - Agalarov 9'

Ufa striker Gamid Agalarov's early debut goal for Mikhail Galaktionov's under-21 side handed Russia a dream start away to their strongest opponents in Group C, but the optimism didn't last long. 

Within four minutes, Spain were back on level terms through Fer Nino. The teams went into the break still level, but within 10 minutes of the restart Spain showed their quality to surge two goals in front. 

First, 18-year-old Yeremi Pino took advantage of some nervous defending to wrongfoot Dynamo Moscow keeper Ivan Budachev, before Nino rounded Budachev to calmly slot a second. Just over three minutes from time, Pino added his second to complete the rout. 

Russia start Group C fifth, while Spain go top on three points. 

Next Euro 2023 qualifiers: Tuesday 7 September - Russia U-21 vs Malta U-21