Carlos Espi has made history with Spain Under-21s and earned promotion to the senior squad after scoring five times in a 13-0 victory over San Marino.
The Real Madrid striker became the first Spanish player to score five goals in a single Under-21 match, surpassing the previous record of four.
Jonathan Soriano achieved that mark against San Marino in 2005, before Rodrigo Moreno scored four against Denmark in 2012. Alvaro Morata matched the feat against Austria in 2013, while Samu Omorodion did so against Malta in 2024.
Espi’s performance has led to a call-up by Spain manager Luis de la Fuente for the team’s final two Nations League matches this month. He replaces Ferran Torres, who has been ruled out through injury.
The 21-year-old joined Real Madrid from Levante after scoring 11 LaLiga goals during his first top-flight campaign on Spain’s east coast in 2025/26.
Jose Mourinho sanctioned the move by activating Espi’s €25M release clause, with the Real Madrid manager seeking an additional striker who offered a different profile from his other attacking options.
The powerful forward has already scored twice in the league for his new club, despite being given limited playing time. His form continued with Spain’s Under-21 side, culminating in his record-breaking display against San Marino.
Spain remain top of their qualifying group for the 2027 U21 Euros after the emphatic victory.
Their final group fixture is against Romania in Ibiza on October 6th. Victory in that match will secure Spain’s place at the tournament.