Euro 2024 Champions On September 5, Serbia drew 0-0 away to Spain in Nations League Group Four, snapping a nine-game winning streak and dropping their first points since March.
Spain dominated possession in their first match after a historic European Championship campaign in which they won all seven games en route to capturing the trophy with a 2-1 victory against England in the final but were unable to convert 22 scoring chances.
Key Players Missing for Spain
Spain started the game slowly, missing key players such as midfielder Rodri and captain Alvaro Morata due to suspensions, as well as injured goalkeeper Unai Simon.
Spain had only two efforts on goal in the first half and was fortunate not to go into the break trailing after Serbia attacker Luka Jokic missed an incredible chance from point-blank range.
Improved Second Half but Missed Chances
The European champions had more energy after the interval, but they also wasted several excellent opportunities, notably a Dani Carvajal close-range volley.
Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal was one of Spain’s few bright moments, creating a couple of chances as the visitors lacked ideas despite having 76 percent ball control.
De la Fuente Reflects on Spain’s Performance
At a press conference, Spain manager Luis de la Fuente said, “We lacked pretty much everything in the first half.”
“We were better and more improved in the second half, but we lacked effectiveness up front. We could have performed better since the heat was unbearable, the players were a little tired, and we ran out of gas.
It’s early in the season and the players have busy schedules, so I’m not worried. Because of the conditions, it’s almost like a preseason game for us. We’ll proceed because it’s a process.
Nations League Group Four Standings
Denmark, who defeated Switzerland 2-0 on Thursday, is leading the standings with two points, followed by Spain and Serbia with one point.
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