Spain came from behind to defeat England in a
thrilling UEFA Nations League encounter at Wembley, extending their unbeaten
run to 39 matches, a record for a European national team.
Luis de la Fuente’s side made a strong start and took
advantage of an early mistake from England defender Marc Guehi. Lamine Yamal
pounced on the error and came close to opening the scoring, with Spain creating
several chances in the early stages.
England gradually grew into the contest and were
rewarded in the 36th minute when Barcelona winger Anthony Gordon completed a
well-worked team move to level the match.
Thomas Tuchel’s side then turned the game around four
minutes later. Captain Harry Kane rose to meet Nico O’Reilly’s cross, with the
ball taking a deflection off Marc Cucurella before finding the net to give
England a 2–1 lead.
England had a chance to increase their advantage early
in the second half after being awarded a penalty following a VAR review for a
foul by Rodri on Jude Bellingham.
Kane stepped up but slipped while taking the
spot-kick, sending his effort against the crossbar and allowing Spain to remain
within touching distance.
The missed penalty proved costly as Spain responded
strongly. Substitute Alex Baena equalised on the hour mark after England lost
possession, with the midfielder finishing from Dani Olmo’s setup.
Spain completed the comeback when Baena turned
provider for Mikel Oyarzabal, who calmly lifted the ball over goalkeeper James
Trafford to put the visitors ahead.
England pushed for another equaliser but could not
find a way through as Spain held on for the victory.
The result continues Spain’s remarkable unbeaten
streak and adds another win over England following their victory in the Euro
2024 final.
De la Fuente praised his players after the match,
saying the team remained focused on improving despite their impressive run.
Kane, meanwhile, admitted England once again struggled
to maintain their best level throughout the full 90 minutes.
Spain will host Croatia in their next Nations League
Group A3 fixture on Tuesday, while England will travel to face the Czech
Republic.
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