The latter is undoubtedly true of German midfielder Toni Kroos, who, less than four minutes into the game, forcefully tackled a young player from Spain.

After playing for a little while longer, the 21-year-old Barcelona star—whose performance has been hindered by injuries over the past two years—sat down and requested to be replaced.

As Pedri departed the pitch, it was clear he was unhappy, and social media users expressed shock that referee Anthony Taylor had not booked Kroos.

A supporter tweeted, “F****** Kroos man!” Another said, “VERY rough challenge on Pedri by Toni Kroos, NO YELLOW CARD GIVEN!”

“An absolute stonewall yellow card for Toni Kroos,” a third person commented. Clearly not provided by Anthony Taylor.

“Toni Kroos is a disgusting player, why wasn’t he?” yelled a fourth.

A crucial report on Pedri’s status was provided by Spanish journalist Alfredo Martinez at halftime, with the match tied at zero points.

“Pedri’s left knee has an internal lateral sprain. We’ll run additional tests to rule out any related injuries. For Pedri, the Euros are over.”

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It’s safe to say that Kroos, a former Real Madrid player who will retire after the tournament, did not sit well with Spanish supporters.

When Kroos again avoided a booking after catching 16-year-old Lamine Yamal on the top of the foot, Spain were even more incensed.

It’s interesting to note that Barcelona is the team that Kroos fouled.

Although Antonio Rudiger, Kroos’s teammate, gave Dani Olmo, Pedri’s replacement, a fierce challenge of his own, he was still given a yellow card.

Despite losing Pedri so quickly, Olmo’s incredible finish early in the second half gave Spain the advantage.