Spain beat England 3-2 at Wembley. Lamine Yamal scored as world champions rallied after England took lead twice.
Spain defeated England 3-2 at Wembley on Saturday in a dramatic five-goal UEFA Nations League opener, recovering from twice being behind to claim three points against the hosts. Lamine Yamal, Alex Baena and Mikel Oyarzabal scored for the reigning world champions, while Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane were on target for England.
Spain struck first after only two minutes when Marc Guehi lost possession and Yamal took advantage, advancing into the area before finishing to give the visitors an early lead. England responded strongly, with Jude Bellingham helping create the equalizer for Gordon in the 36th minute before Kane headed Nico O’Reilly’s cross into the net four minutes later to complete England’s turnaround.
England had an opportunity to extend their advantage early in the second half after a VAR review resulted in a penalty following Rodri’s challenge on Bellingham. Kane stepped up but slipped while taking the kick and struck the crossbar, leaving Spain within one goal of leveling the match.
Spain took advantage of the reprieve. Baena, introduced from the bench, brought Spain level in the 60th minute after receiving the ball from Dani Olmo and finishing from inside the area. Fourteen minutes later, Baena turned provider, playing a pass through England’s defense for Oyarzabal to finish and put Spain back in front at 3-2.
England pushed for another equalizer during the closing stages but could not find a third goal. Spain’s victory extends their unbeaten run to 39 matches, according to Sky Sports, while England begin their Nations League campaign without a point.
The defeat gives Thomas Tuchel’s side an early setback in Group A3, with England now preparing for their next Nations League fixture away against Czechia on Tuesday. Spain, meanwhile, leave Wembley with three points from a match that featured repeated changes in momentum and two comebacks.
Sources: Information from Sky Sports, NBC Sports, Reuters, UEFA and England Football.