All eyes were on Gerard Pique ahead of kick-off for the part he played in the referendum for Catalan independence, but the side managed by Julen Lopetegui used their football to urge all matters unrelated to sport to be left off the pitch. The crowd gathered at Alicante's Jose Rico Perez stadium were made to forget the political situation, mesmerised by an exhibition of fluid passing football in the first half.
It is undeniable that Spain are firm candidates to lift the World Cup in Russia next summer, and that is not because of their convincing win over Albania, but because they remain faithful to their approach to football. When the likes of Isco, Silva or Thiago turn on the style, they are frankly unstoppable.
It doesn't matter who plays in Spain's midfield. 'La Roja' have a generous supply of skilled footballers to play their game. With Iniesta and Busquets sidelined due to injury and wonderkid Asensio starting on the bench, it seems anybody is prepared to to perform when called upon.
An issue for the Spaniards in recent times has been that of the centre-forward, now a problematic position following Morata's hamstring tear. Valencia's Rodrigo was handed a surprising start and the 26-year-old responded; after a couple of chances went astray, he finally banged in Spain's opener.
And once the deadlock had been broken, a more relaxed Spain found it even easier to work their way forward in spectacular fashion. Midway through the first half, and with magical build-up play, they put the game out of reach with two goals in quick succession.
Silva, Koke and Isco were involved in the move to set up the Real Madrid playmaker, who swivelled inside the box and sent a thumping strike past Berisha and into the roof of the net. Albania were not given a chance to recompose when Thiago powered a header to the right of the keeper to make it three.
A step back with the game under control
And like a switch they turn it on and off when it pleases them. Having secured the win in the first forty-five minutes, the hosts lifted their foot off the pedal, allowing Albania to push forward. Panucci's team hit the woodwork twice but never posed a real threat for the home team who could have furthered their lead with opportunities in the second period.
It was not as convincing as the first thirty minutes, where they looked indomitable, but it was enough to see Spain comfortably into next summer's World Cup, after Italy could only put one past Macedonia. With the endless supply of young talent knocking at the door, Spain are more than just a team to look out for. Once again, 'La Roja' will be in the biggest competition in world football.