(Football Results) – Spain faced a tough match away against the Netherlands in the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 quarterfinals.
In the early hours of March 21st (Vietnam time), the Netherlands welcomed Spain to their home ground for the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinals 2024/25. The match was thrilling, with both teams showcasing exciting plays, ultimately ending in a 2-2 draw.
The game got off to a fast start, with a dangerous moment occurring in the 9th minute. Following a chaotic situation in the penalty area, Pedri made a clever pass to Nico Williams, who seized the opportunity to score the opening goal for Spain.
However, the Netherlands was not to be outdone. In the 28th minute, Justin Kluivert delivered a precise pass to Cody Gakpo, who was unmarked and quickly struck the ball into the bottom left corner, equalizing 1-1 for the home side.
As the first half approached its end, the Netherlands nearly scored again in the 41st minute when Jorrel Hato headed the ball accurately from a free kick, but goalkeeper Unai Simon made an excellent save to deny the Dutch team.
The second half witnessed dramatic changes. Just one minute in, the Netherlands took the lead 2-1 with a goal from Tijjani Reijnders. The player received a pass from Jeremie Frimpong inside the penalty area and did not miss the opportunity to shoot into the bottom left corner.
The tension continued to build throughout the match. In the 64th minute, Lamine Yamal made a beautiful run into the penalty area and shot, but goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen made an outstanding save.
A significant turning point occurred in the 83rd minute when Jorrel Hato (Netherlands) received a direct red card following a harsh challenge on an opponent. This controversial decision saw the referee show no hesitation in sending him off, leaving the Netherlands to play with one less player for the remainder of the match.
Taking advantage of their numerical superiority, the reigning Euro champions equalized in the 90+3 minute. Mikel Merino was in the right place at the right time when the ball deflected after a scramble in the penalty area, allowing him to score and make it 2-2 for Spain.
The match concluded with a 2-2 draw, a result that is not too disappointing for either team as they prepare for the return leg in Spain on March 24.
- Expected Goals (xG): 0.61
- Expected Goals (xG): 0.53
- Shots in the penalty area: 5
- Shots outside the penalty area: 5
- Touches in the opponent’s half: 13
- Pass accuracy: 83% (346/419)
- Overall passes: 90% (543/604)
- Passes in the final third: 74% (90/122)
- Long passes: 82% (124/151)
- Tackles: 42% (5/12)
- Interceptions: 75% (9/12)
- Clearances: 62% (8/13)
