After the threats and insults they received, Alvaro Morata dedicated the extra-time goal that allowed Spain to reach the Euro 2020 quarterfinals with a 5-3 victory over Croatia to his family.Morata scored in the 100th minutes of the round-of-16 clash. This was after Croatia staged a late comeback, when they were 3-1 down and had five minutes to go. Before Mikel Oyarzabal secured victory that saw Spain win a tournament match knockout match for first time since 2012.- Euro 2020 on ESPN - Stream LIVE games replays (U.S. Only)Euro 2020 on ESPN: The latest news, features and videoMorata disclosed this week that his family received threats messages from fans following the loss of Spain's group matches at Seville. Coach Luis Enrique called for police intervention.- Dawson: Spain shows character as Morata, Simon inspires- Social media reactions to the Spain-Croatia terrorMorata stated Monday that "In the past few weeks, we've seen some things that haven’t been pleasant for me," but the majority of Spain is now on board. "My wife, my children, my family, and all those who support me are my goals. You have to experience difficult times, to suffer, and to enjoy the good times.Luis Enrique, who has supported Morata through it all and picked him for each of the four Euro 2020 matches, praised the 28 year-old during his post-match news conference.He said, "I don’t believe there’s a coach who doesn’t admire, value, and praise Alvaro Morata." He's able give you continuity. He defends like a centre-back. He scores goals and dominates the air. Alvaro's participation in the national team is something we must value.After Spain's opening draw with Sweden, which ended in a 0-0 draw, and then a 1-1 draw with Poland with Spain, the coach was under pressure. However, after Monday's dramatic win, the team responded to their critics with 5-0 wins over Slovakia and Monday's dramatic victory.He said, "If it ends in that way, I'm prepared to endure a quarterfinal with the same style." "I don’t know how my family or friends can cope, but this ending is so beautiful... Strangely, we were given another chance to win the match. We made the only mistake by playing at 3-1. We should not have tried to defend and play long. We played 5-3, the way Spain should play. Or at least my Spain, which was defending with a ball.Luis Enrique also backed Unai Simon, goalkeeper, after he failed in his attempt to receive a back pass by Pedri to give Croatia the opening goal.He said, "Football's a game of mistakes." "I have never seen a player make mistakes in my career... Unai Simon taught a lesson for all footballers, not just professionals. Don't be worried about making mistakes. Instead, think about how hard you are trying. He made great saves after making a mistake.It was a very intense game. He said that he'd seen others, but that this one was different. "I'll tell the headline: Enjoy football!"
