Spain ended their UEFA Nations League Group A4 campaign with a dramatic 3-2 win over Switzerland, as Bryan Zaragoza scored a last-minute penalty to seal the victory. Already assured of a spot in the quarter-finals before kickoff, Spain showcased their depth with a revamped lineup, while Switzerland concluded their group stage at the bottom of the table, confirming their relegation.
Holders Spain finished the group with 16 points, cementing their status as group leaders. Switzerland, with just two points, endured a disappointing campaign that culminated in relegation. Denmark also advanced to the quarter-finals after a goalless draw against Serbia secured their second-place finish in the group.
With little at stake for either side, Spain’s manager Luis de la Fuente made wholesale changes, fielding an entirely new starting XI compared to the team that defeated Denmark 2-1 days earlier. Despite the lack of familiarity in the lineup, Spain’s young and relatively inexperienced players delivered an entertaining performance, highlighting the depth of talent in the squad.
The action began in the 32nd minute when Yeremy Pino broke the deadlock, pouncing on a rebound after Pedri’s penalty was saved by Swiss goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo. Switzerland equalized in the 63rd minute through Joel Monteiro, whose solo effort pierced Spain’s defense. However, Spain regained the lead just five minutes later when substitute Bryan Gil, making an instant impact, scored with a composed finish.
The game seemed destined for a draw when Andi Zeqiri converted a penalty for Switzerland in the 85th minute, but the drama wasn’t over. In added time, Zaragoza was fouled in the box, and the 22-year-old confidently stepped up to score his first international goal, securing Spain’s fifth consecutive victory and capping off a successful year.
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Spain’s attacking intent lacked its usual sharpness early on, with Nico Williams creating an early chance but failing to hit the target. Alvaro Morata was brought down by Ricardo Rodriguez to earn the first penalty, but Pedri’s spot kick was saved, only for Pino to react quickly and fire home. The second half saw the intensity rise, with Monteiro’s equalizer sparking excitement before Gil restored Spain’s lead with a clinical strike.
Zaragoza’s late winner underscored Spain’s resilience and ability to thrive under pressure. The victory extended Spain’s unbeaten run in 2024 to 16 matches, a streak that includes their triumphant Euro 2024 campaign in Germany. After a shaky start to the year with a 1-0 friendly loss to Colombia, Spain has demonstrated exceptional consistency and growth under de la Fuente.
The match also served as a platform for emerging talent, with Aitor Paredes making his debut and Pablo Barrios and Samu Omorodion earning their first international appearances. Goalkeeper Alex Remiro and midfielder Marc Casado also made their first starts, signaling a bright future for Spanish football.
As Spain marches into the Nations League quarter-finals with momentum and an enviable pool of young talent, the team looks poised to continue its dominance in European football.
