World champions Spain came from behind to defeat England 3-2 in a thrilling Nations League match at Wembley on Saturday, denying the home side a morale-boosting victory after their disappointing World Cup exit. This win extends Spain’s remarkable unbeaten streak to 39 matches, the longest for any European team.
Spain’s match began poorly for England as Lamine Yamal capitalised on a mistake by defender Marc Guehi. The visitors could have scored more, as they created multiple opportunities. However, England, criticised for their defensive tactics during the World Cup semi-final against Argentina, responded positively. They equalised in the 36th minute when Anthony Gordon finished a well-executed team move.
Just four minutes later, Harry Kane put England ahead, heading home a cross from Nico O’Reilly, which had been deflected off Marc Cucurella. Kane missed a crucial penalty shortly thereafter, hitting the bar, which proved costly for England.
Spain, who had previously beaten England in the final of Euro 2024, took advantage of England’s defensive lapses. Substitute Alex Baena levelled the match after an error gifted Spain possession, before Mikel Oyarzabal scored the winner, lifting the ball over goalkeeper James Trafford.
England manager Thomas Tuchel had downplayed the significance of the match beforehand but must have been disappointed with his team’s shaky start, particularly by Guehi’s early mistake that gifted Yamal the first goal. Despite a bright start to the second half, England were left deflated by the missed penalty and Spain’s quick-fire comeback.
