Spain have booked their place in the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League after a dramatic and emotionally charged encounter against the Netherlands. Following two thrilling legs — a 2-2 draw in Rotterdam and a breathtaking 3-3 result this Sunday in Valencia — the reigning European and Nations League champions triumphed 5-4 on penalties at the Mestalla Stadium.
Midfielder Pedri scored the decisive spot-kick that sealed Spain’s place in the next round, where they will face France, who also needed penalties to eliminate Croatia. The other semi-final will be a blockbuster clash between Germany and Portugal.
A rollercoaster match full of drama
The showdown in Valencia was packed with excitement, particularly in the second half and extra time. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain with a penalty in the 7th minute. The Dutch responded early in the second half through Memphis Depay, also converting from the spot.
Oyarzabal then netted his second to put Spain back in front, but Ian Maatsen equalised in the 78th minute, pushing the match into extra time.
Spain struck again thanks to a stunning goal from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal in the 12th minute of extra time, only for the Netherlands to draw level once more — this time through Xavi Simons, who converted a penalty he had won himself.
Penalty drama seals it for La Roja
In the shootout, Dutch winger Noa Lang missed his side’s fourth penalty, giving Spain the edge. However, Yamal’s effort was then saved by the Dutch keeper, sending the tie into sudden death. Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón became the hero, saving Donyell Malen’s shot, before Pedri calmly slotted home the winner.
With that, Spain advance to the semi-finals of the Nations League, continuing their quest to retain the title and confirming once again their reputation as one of Europe’s footballing powerhouses.
