Former England captain Rio Ferdinand has lavished praise on Gerard Pique and Andres Iniesta following the duo's performance for Spain in their Euro 2016 opener on Monday afternoon.
It did appear that the European champions would be held to a goalless draw by Czech Republic in Group D, but Iniesta set up Pique in the 87th minute as the holders made a winning start in France.
Ferdinand reserved special praise for his former Manchester United teammate Pique, but also hailed Barcelona midfielder Iniesta, whose assist ensured that Spain would join Croatia on three points in Group D.
Spain opening their #EURO2016 account with a comfortable win.. @3gerardpique goal and clean sheet. MoM for me!! #ESP
— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) June 13, 2016
Iniesta dictating in the middle also🔥 #Esp
— Rio Ferdinand (@rioferdy5) June 13, 2016
Next up for Spain is a clash with Turkey on Friday night.
