Euro 2024 champions Spain hit an unexpected roadblock on Thursday as they were held to a goalless draw by Serbia in their Nations League Group Four clash, bringing their impressive nine-game winning streak to a halt. This marked Spain’s first dropped points since March, in a match where the European champions dominated but couldn’t find the back of the net.
Coming off their sensational Euro 2024 triumph, where they won all seven matches and clinched the trophy with a 2-1 victory over England in the final, Spain entered the match as clear favorites. However, despite controlling 76% of the possession and firing 22 attempts on goal, they failed to break down a resolute Serbian defense.
Spain was without key players like midfield maestro Rodri, captain Alvaro Morata, and goalkeeper Unai Simon, which may have contributed to their slow start. The first half saw Spain register only two shots on target, while Serbia nearly took the lead when Luka Jovic missed a point-blank chance.
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Spain’s second-half performance improved, with Dani Carvajal missing a golden opportunity from close range. Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal provided a spark, creating several chances, but Spain’s attack lacked the cutting edge to convert.
Manager Luis de la Fuente acknowledged the team’s struggles after the match, saying, “We lacked almost everything in the first half. In the second, we were better but inefficient up front. The players were tired, and the heat drained us.”
Despite the draw, Spain remains in the hunt, sharing second place with Serbia, two points behind Denmark, who defeated Switzerland 2-0. Spain’s Nations League campaign is far from over, but this result serves as a wake-up call for the European champions as they look to bounce back.
