The Chelsea star was snubbed for the 2014 World Cup qualifiers against Belarus and France in October, but earned himself a place in national team coach Vicente del Bosque's squad again with his fine performances at club level.

"I was very upset at being left out last time, but it's great to be back with the lads again," Mata told AS.

The attacking midfielder was delighted with the team's performance against Panama after two goals from Pedro and further strikes from David Villa, Sergio Ramos and Susaeta saw them cruise to a comfortable win.

"It was not that easy, the game was a potential banana skin," the Stamford Bridge star continued. "They have been doing well recently and have a chance to qualify for the World Cup.

"The conditions weren't the best either (the game was played in 30 degree heat) but we put in a good performance. We played well, we put on a spectacle and we go back to Spain in a very satisfied mood."