Spain managed to clinch a last-minute equalizer against a Netherlands side reduced to 10 men, ending the match in a thrilling 2-2 draw on Thursday. This result not only extended their two-year unbeaten streak but also put the defending champions in a favorable position in their Nations League quarter-final tie.
Mikel Merino Heroics: Arsenal Star Delivers Crucial Equalizer
Substitute Mikel Merino, who has taken on the role of a makeshift striker at Arsenal, demonstrated his knack for finding the back of the net for his national team as well, scoring with a close-range finish just three minutes into added time.
Dutch Fightback Foiled by Hato Red Card
The Dutch made a strong comeback after falling behind early in the ninth minute, with Cody Gakpo and Tijjani Reijnders finding the net. However, their efforts were marred when teenage defender Jorrel Hato received a red card for a studs-up challenge just eight minutes before the final whistle, leaving them to finish the match with ten players.
Spain, unbeaten in their last 21 competitive internationals, took an early lead with Nico Williams finding the back of the net after a quick start to the match.
Youthful Errors and Clinical Finishing Define Match
An error made by 19-year-old Hato was quickly seized upon by Spain’s 17-year-old Lamine Yamal. He delivered a pass to Pedri in the box, who then slid it through to Williams, allowing him to turn and slot it home.
Spain captain Alvaro Morata had an opportunity to increase the lead, but his header from a cross delivered by Marc Cucurella sailed wide of the target.
The Dutch pushed forward with renewed vigor, led by right back Jeremie Frimpong, whose dynamic runs down the wing continually unsettled the Spanish defense and energized the home crowd.
Defensive Lapses Lead to Cody Gakpo Equalizer
The failure of Pau Cubarsi to effectively clear Frimpong’s cross allowed Justin Kluivert to set up Gakpo on the left flank, and he struck a powerful shot just within the goal for an equaliser in the 28th minute.
Reijnders narrowly missed the crossbar with a half volley before scoring just moments into the second half.
Frimpong pulled the ball back following another powerful run down the wing, and Reijnders sent it into the net with a flawlessly executed side-footed shot.
Hato’s red card for a tackle on Robin le Normand gave Spain a late advantage, allowing them to bombard the Dutch goal before eventually finding the equalizer.
Nations League Semi-Finals: Spain vs Netherlands Return Leg Preview
Bart Verbruggen struggled to keep hold of Williams’ shot, allowing Merino to finish effortlessly, which puts Spain in a strong position as they head into the return leg in Valencia on Sunday.
The winners of the tie will face Croatia or France in the semi-final in June, with Croatia leading 2-0 from the first leg.
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