England end Spain’s 43-Game unbeaten run with thrilling 3-2 victory in Nations League

England produced a commanding performance to secure a landmark 3-2 victory over Spain in Madrid, handing the reigning world champions a rare defeat in regulation time and recording what could be regarded as their finest display under head coach Thomas Tuchel.

The Three Lions raced into a three-goal lead before the hour mark but were forced to withstand intense pressure in the closing stages after midfielder Elliot Anderson was sent off, allowing Spain to mount a spirited comeback.

England stunned the home supporters at the Metropolitano Stadium with their dominance from the opening whistle, overpowering a Spanish side that had gone 43 matches without a defeat in regulation time. Spain’s last such loss came in March 2024, although they were beaten by Portugal on penalties in the Nations League final.

Despite wasting several opportunities in the first half, England eventually broke the deadlock just before the interval when captain Harry Kane converted a penalty. The striker, who was fouled by Pau Cubarsi, registered his 93rd international goal from the spot.

Tuchel’s men continued their impressive display after the restart, doubling their advantage in the 53rd minute through Ezri Konsa, who headed home Declan Rice’s corner.

Arsenal defender Ben White made it 3-0 four minutes later, finishing off a sweeping attacking move with a powerful angled effort to leave Spain facing a difficult task.

However, England’s comfortable advantage was put under threat in the 65th minute following a defensive error by Jarell Quansah. The mistake allowed Spain to launch an attack, forcing Anderson to pull back Lamine Yamal.

The midfielder was shown a straight red card, while Mikel Oyarzabal converted the resulting penalty to give Spain hope.

The hosts, who had struggled to make an impact for much of the contest, suddenly found renewed confidence, with Yamal playing a key role in their revival.

Spain reduced the deficit further in the 75th minute when Yamal delivered an excellent cross for substitute Nico Williams, who beat England goalkeeper James Trafford.

With momentum shifting towards the home side, Trafford became increasingly important, producing a series of outstanding saves to deny Spain an equaliser and preserve England’s advantage.

England eventually held on to secure a memorable 3-2 victory, a result that also confirmed their position at the top of their UEFA Nations League group.

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