Spain beats the Netherlands on penalties and is in the Nations League semi-final
After a draw in normal time and extra time, with the penalties also evenly matched, Pedri scores the decisive penalty
SPAIN IN THE SEMIFINAL
Spain are in the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League. After two thrilling games against the Netherlands, with 2-2 draws in the first leg in Rotterdam and 3-3 this Sunday in Valencia, the current European and Nations League champions beat the Netherlands 5-4 in a penalty shootout and are through to the semi-finals. Pedri took the penalty that qualified the Spanish team. In June, Spain will face France, who eliminated Croatia, also on penalties. Germany and Portugal will play in the other semi-final.
EMOTION UNTIL THE END
The two teams played an exciting game at the Mestalla Stadium, especially in the second half and extra time. Oyarzabal opened the scoring from the penalty spot after just seven minutes, and the Netherlands equalized early in the second half with Memphis Depay, also converting a penalty. Oyarzabal also scored Spain’s second goal, but Maatsen equalized again in the 33rd minute of the second half.
Lamine Yamal put Spain back in front with a stunning goal 12 minutes into extra time, and the Netherlands once again sought to equalise, with Xavi Simons converting a penalty he had won himself. In the shootout, Lang missed the Netherlands’ fourth penalty, but Yamal was stopped by the Dutch goalkeeper shortly afterwards. In the alternating shots, Unai Simón saved Malen’s shot, and Pedri secured Spain’s qualification.
