MATCH REPORT | Spain salvage a crucial late draw in Rotterdam (2-2)

Down at sea level in the Netherlands fans saw thunder, lightning, great football and plenty of goals. Spain left the De Kuip stadium with a 2-2 draw that leaves the tie between the two teams evenly poised for the Mestalla next Sunday with a place up for grabs in the final four of this UEFA Nations League, of which our national team are reigning champions.

It was a high level encounter at the ‘De Kuip’ stadium in Rotterdam, in which Luis de la Fuente's side took the lead with a great goal from Nico Williams after Lamine Yamal stole the ball and the subsequent assist from Pedri, however, the courage and talent of the Dutch managed to turn the scoreline around. Goals from Gakpo first and Reijnders shortly after the start of the second half put the ‘orange’ ahead.

But this Spain side always gives its best, always knows how to change the game and their attitude and the willingness to fight come as standard. De la Fuente boosted the team with his changes and Spain laid siege to the home team’s area. It was not until stoppage time, after the Netherlands had gone a man down due to the sending off of Hato, that the final goal to make it 2-2 came. The goal was scored by Arsenal’s Mikel Merino, who had just entered the field of play and continued his good form in front of goal.

A draw that leaves the quarter-final tie with all to play for next Sunday, at 20:45 at the Mestalla, where the final act in this drama will see who marches on towards a chance at glory.