FOOTBALL – On Sunday evening, Spain took the second victory in the Nations League 2022/23. In the warm Málaga stadium, the Spanish team played against the Czech Republic. However, it wasn´t until after the game until Spain heard about the extra gift from Portugal.
It seemed that Spain needed a little longer to grow in this tournament. Spain drew their first two games against Portugal and the Czech Republic, but on Thursday, Spain recorded their first win against Switzerland, 0-1. On Sunday evening, Spain played the Czech Republic for the second time and despite the heat in Málaga, the Spaniards won convincingly against the Czechs 2-0.
Spain scored twice against the Czech Republic
Although the Czech Republic came very close to scoring in the beginning, the first good Spanish attack immediately resulted in a goal. Carlos Soler opened the score in the 23rd minute on a pass from Marco Asensio. That goal gave the home team wings, because they played a lot better football afterwards.
This 1-0 score remained for a long time, but that changed in minute 74. After a nice attack with several players, the ball eventually ended up at Sarabia via substitute Torres. All he had to do was put his left foot against the ball and the scoreboard read 2-0. Although the Czech Republic did everything they could to come back, the 2-0 became the final score of the game.
Portugal without Ronaldo against Switzerland
Spain’s victory forced Portugal to beat Switzerland to remain in the lead in this group. However, the national team had to do this without Cristiano Ronaldo as the national coach had too many players and Ronaldo decided to give a game rest. However, with today’s knowledge, it is questionable whether this was a useful decision.
Switzerland took the lead after barely a minute of play. Although Portugal still scored a goal, it was disallowed and Portugal lost 1-0 in Switzerland. A major setback after the previous 4-0 win against the Swiss. This loss also means that Spain is leading in group 2 of the Nations League.
Spain continues Nations League in September
Spain has now played four matches scheduled for the Nations League in June. In the coming period, most internationals can recover from a busy season during the summer break. The next games are scheduled for September 24 and 27 against Switzerland and Portugal respectively.
Also read: Spain and Portugal split points in Nations League
