Eric Garcia brought order and discipline to Spain against Croatia
After he went off the defence caved in and the game went to extra-time
Barcelona’s new centre back, Eric Garcia, started for Spain in the 5-3 win over Croatia and he did well. The team fell apart defensively after he was taken off, in fact.
He lined up on the right of the central defence, alongside Aymeric Laporte.
He did well battling with Petkovic and ended the first half with one tackle, one dribble, two duels won out of four, one foul given away, 97% pass accuracy and 62 touches of the ball.
He stayed on until the 65th minute, largely untroubled - the Croatia goal was a freak accident by Unai Simon. He also played a part in the build up for Cesar Azpilicueta’s goal.
It was after he went off for Pau Torres, in the 71st minute, that Spain suddenly fell to pieces at the back, throwing away their 3-1 lead.
He ended up with 90 touches of the ball, three duels won of five and 96 percent pass accuracy, 81 of 84 attempted.
