World champions Spain maintained their perfect start to the Nations League with a 3-1 victory over the Czech Republic in Oviedo.
Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a superb finish from the edge of the penalty area. The Barcelona forward found space despite being surrounded by three defenders before curling the ball beyond the goalkeeper and into the far corner.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 35th minute through Rodri. The Barcelona midfielder drove at the Czech defence before combining with Dani Olmo and firing into the top corner from close range.
The Czech Republic reduced the deficit in the 69th minute when Jiri Slama struck a low shot past Arsenal goalkeeper David Raya. Any hopes of a comeback were dealt a further blow when Wolves defender Ladislav Krejci was sent off after receiving a second booking.
Spain eventually secured the three points in the 89th minute when Mikel Merino reacted quickest to a loose ball and converted to restore the hosts’ two-goal advantage. The victory extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 10 matches following their 0-0 draw with Cape Verde in the group stage of the World Cup.
Luis de la Fuente’s side now have nine points from three Nations League matches and remain top of Group A3. They are three points ahead of England, who strengthened their position with a 7-0 victory over Croatia earlier on Saturday.
Spain will face Croatia away on Tuesday, with victory enough to send them through to the quarter-finals with two group matches still remaining.
