Spain 3-1 Czech Republic: The world champions beat the Czechs by ten players to continue their wonderful run G Trends

European Nations League,
League A – 3

New Carlos Tartiri

Vasilis Fotias

Yamal sheet 6′
Rodrigo Hernandez Cacante 35′
Mikel Merino 89′

Jerry Salama 69′

Spain extended its impressive unbeaten run to 41 matches with a 3-1 victory over the Czechs in the European Nations League in Oviedo.

Lamine Yamal and Rodri scored for coach Luis de la Fuente’s team in the first half, before the visitors responded in the second half, reducing the deficit thanks to Jerry Salama.

Ladislav Krejci was sent off late for the Czech Republic before Mikel Merino added a third goal with a few minutes remaining to secure a draw for the hosts.

The result left Spain at the top of the group, after winning all three of its opening matches, while the Czech Republic remained at the bottom after losing all of its matches.

The world champions took the lead after just six minutes when Yamal curled a stunning shot into the top left corner from the edge of the penalty area.

It was a landmark goal for the young star, who has scored in each of Spain’s opening three UEFA Nations League matches.

The hosts doubled their lead in the 35th minute, with skipper Rodri volleying home a rebound to give De La Fuente’s men some breathing room.

The Czech Republic responded strongly in the second half and halved the gap in the 69th minute when Salama ran into Spain’s penalty area and took possession of a square ball from Adam Hlozek.

David Raya then escaped from a fatal error when he passed the ball directly to Ondrej Linger, but the winger’s shot lacked the necessary power and the Arsenal goalkeeper was able to return to collect the ball.

Spain were out of trouble again when Raya took a free kick, allowing Rayan Naderi to fire the ball into the net, but the referee called a foul and the goal was disallowed.

But with the visitors pressing for an equaliser, Craigie received a second yellow card and was sent off.

And it proved decisive. Just four minutes later, Merino scored Spain’s third goal to decide the match. A series of bookings followed, but the hosts finished off the game to continue their impressive unbeaten run.

European Nations League table

Next matches for Spain and Czechia