10-man England hold off Spain’s late fightback to seal 3-2 win

By Tosin Omojola

England produced arguably their finest performance under Thomas Tuchel to beat World Cup holders Spain 3-2 in Madrid and finish top of their UEFA Nations League group.

Harry Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot just before half-time after being fouled by Pau Cubarsi. Ezri Konsa headed in Declan Rice’s corner in the 53rd minute, and Ben White added a third four minutes later with a powerful finish.

England’s control unravelled when Jarell Quansah was caught in possession in the 65th minute, prompting Elliot Anderson to pull down Lamine Yamal and receive a red card.

Mikel Oyarzabal converted the resulting penalty, and Yamal then set up substitute Nico Williams to make it 3-2 in the 75th minute.

Spain, unbeaten in regulation time for 43 matches and winners of the European Championship and World Cup since their last such defeat in March 2024, pressed relentlessly late on.

But goalkeeper James Trafford made several outstanding saves to deny an equaliser and secure a landmark victory.