Spain reached the UEFA Nations League semi-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout victory over the Netherlands, following a pulsating 3-3 draw in the second leg of their quarter-final tie at the Mestalla Stadium in Valencia. The match, filled with twists and turns, saw Spain twice take the lead in normal time, only to be pegged back by a resilient Dutch side. After snatching a 2-2 draw on Thursday, Spain had better first-half chances.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain with an early penalty, awarded after Brighton defender Jan Paul van Hecke fouled the Real Sociedad forward inside the box.
Memphis Depay, making his 100th appearance for the Netherlands, equalized with a penalty of his own nine minutes into the second half, after being brought down by Robin Le Normand.
Oyarzabal restored Spain’s lead midway through the second period, heading home his second goal of the game after a flowing counter-attack involving Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams.
However, the Netherlands refused to give up. Debutant Ian Maatsen guided a powerful left-footed effort into the net in the 79th minute to force extra time.
Yamal put Spain ahead for a third time, 13 minutes into extra period.
The drama continued as the Netherlands were awarded another penalty. Xavi Simons converted from the spot after being brought down by Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon.
Penalty Shootout Drama and Simon’s Heroics
The match went to a penalty shootout. Noa Lang hit the crossbar for the Netherlands, and Yamal was denied by Brighton goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen. However, Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simon saved Donyell Malen’s effort, giving Pedri the chance to win the tie.
The Barcelona midfielder coolly converted, sending a lofted effort into the corner to spark wild celebrations among the home fans.
The victory extends Spain’s unbeaten run in all competitions to 18 matches. Their last Nations League defeat was a 2-1 home loss to Switzerland in September 2022. Spain, the 2023 Nations League winners, will now face France in the semi-finals. The match showcased both Spain’s attacking flair and their resilience, while the Netherlands will rue missed opportunities and their penalty shootout heartbreak.
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