You know that feeling when you’ve already seen a film? The script, the cast, the storyline all seem familiar… That is exactly what happens with Spain, albeit with a few subtle differences. Spain won again, once again gave the impression that stopping this team is almost impossible, and once again sent the fans into raptures. But this was not the same team, not the same opponent and not the same setting. And that is what makes Spain the best team in the world.

Santi Cazorla and Juan Mata presented the World Cup trophy to Rodrigo, who lifted it in front of the fans

Spain returned to the Carlos Tartiere Stadium eleven years later, having last played there in a European Championship qualifier against Slovakia, winning 2-0. This time, Luis de la Fuente’s side were playing the third matchday of the UEFA Nations League. And for those who believe in numerology, Lamine Yamal scored his 11th goal for Spain.

The Spain winger opened the scoring in the sixth minute with another early goal, something that has become almost customary since the start of the campaign, having also struck against England and Croatia. This time, he produced a genuine work of art: he started the move on the right wing, combined with Dani Olmo and set himself up before firing into the far corner from the right-hand side of the penalty area. Spain continued to dominate, creating wave after wave of attacks, with Álex Baena, Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal all threatening the Czech defence.

But it was Spain’s captain, the man who lifted the World Cup into the sky, who scored the second goal in the 35th minute. Rodrigo started the move and finished it. It was his fifth goal for the national team and the second of the night, giving Spain a two-goal cushion before half-time.

Iván Fresneda and Roberto Fernández made their Spain debuts in Oviedo

After the break, Spain continued to dominate possession, although the chances were less clear-cut. With the new format, the national team are playing four matches in fewer than 12 days, and the demanding schedule is beginning to show. In the 69th minute, Santi Denia’s side produced a perfectly executed counter-attack that ended with Salava pulling one back. Czechia reduced the deficit and could even have levelled in an isolated opportunity late in the match.

The game became increasingly physical and scrappy. Spain stood firm and, in the closing stages, Mikel Merino restored the two-goal advantage with the 3-1. Víctor Muñoz created the move and saw his shot saved, before Merino reacted quickest to the rebound and fired the ball into the net.

Spain therefore add another three points to remain top of UEFA Nations League Group A3. Luis de la Fuente’s side will play their next match this Tuesday, 6 October, against Croatia in Split. That encounter will bring this first international window of the season to a close.