The FIP European Championships began at Santa Maria Polo Club in Spain with the opening match between hosts Spain and Switzerland. 
After conceding the opening goal, Spain took the lead and never looked back to claim the dominant 12-5 victory. Applying relentless pressure throughout the match, Spain heavily outshot Switzerland 20-3 to hold the upper hand in open play. Producing a 9-1 run that began in the opening chukka, Spain’s fast-paced style of play generated plenty of offense but resulted in some foul trouble as Switzerland scored all four of their goals from the penalty line. Nicolas Ruiz Guinazu led the team with seven goals, three of which came from the penalty line, and it was Spain’s dominance in open play that ultimately led to the seven-goal difference. 