Joselu scored two late goals on his international debut as Spain opened Euro 2024 qualification with a 3–0 win over Norway at La Rosaleda in Luis de la Fuente’s first game.
Spain was by no means impressive: the guests without Erling Haaland missed out on some great moments, but Joselu repaid De la Fuente’s faith towards the end.
De la Fuente, appointed as Luis Enrique’s successor after being eliminated from the World Cup, named an unfamiliar starting line-up but saw his team quickly take the lead thanks to Dani Olmo.
They held Norway back with some great saves from Kepa Arrizabalaga and a big miss from Alexander Sorloth, while substitute Joselu punished them with two goals in as many minutes.
It took only 13 minutes for the Spaniards to score the first goal of their new era: Alejandro Balde crossed Olmo’s goal.
They needed Kepa’s brilliant save just before half an hour to stay ahead, but the goalkeeper saved a swift shot from Fredrik Orsnes from close range.
Mikel Merino was close in similar circumstances a minute later, but Orjan Nyland threw the ball over the post.
Odds aside, Spain were second in scoring for significant periods and once again successfully escaped early in the second half.
Markus Pedersen’s shot on goal was decisively deflected by Nacho Fernandez and Kepa came back to hook the ball from the line.
Then, in the 80th minute, Sorloth shot wide of the target and Spain duly took advantage.
Joselu nodded in response to Fabian Ruiz’s cross from deep and then fired from close range as Miquel Oyarzabal’s shot deflected in his path, ending an unforgettable evening for the Espanyol striker.