Gerard Pique's header with three minutes remaining ensured Spain took all three points in their opening clash with Czech Republic.
Spain were rewarded for their patience after Andreas Iniesta's teasing cross met the head of Pique, who nodded home past Petr Cech at the back post.
Despite starting spritely, Czech Republic quickly resorted to 'park the bus' tactics. The stout defence soon came to resemble a Mack Truck as Vicente Del Bosque's side became frustrated with the Czech's desperate and organized defence.
Spain should have gone ahead after 15th minutes, with Alvaro Morata firing straight into the arms of Petr Cech within the six-yard box after connecting on a David Silva cross.
After a lackluster first half, Spain returned from the break with a renewed intensity and was nearly rewarded after a barrage of corners. Nolito scuffed his shot from just inside the box, with the ball falling to skipper Sergio Ramos, however numerous Czech defenders quickly blocked his shot.
Seemingly gaining confidence from their resolute defence, Czech Republic witnessed a resurgence halfway through the second half.
Firstly, Roman Hubnik squandered a golden opportunity inside the box and shortly after, Cesc Fabregas heroically cleared Theodor Gebre Selassie's header off the line.
It looked like it wasn't to be Spain's night after Jordi Alba fumbled and failed to convert La Roja's best opportunity of the match with twenty minutes remaining.
However, with the match reaching its climax, man of the match Andreas Iniesta delivered a quality cross into the box and Pique duly converted with a deft header at the back post, sending the Spanish fans into raptures.
The back-to-back champions stuck to their guns and started the defence of their title by claiming a valuable three points after Group D rival Croatia defeated Turkey yesterday.
EURO2016 - Group D FT
Spain #ESP : 1 (Pique 87)
Czech Rep #CZE: 0 Stadium Municipal, Toulouse
