Spain secured their place in the UEFA Nations League semi-finals after a thrilling encounter against the Netherlands at Valencia’s Mestalla Stadium. The match, held on March 23, 2025, ended in a 3-3 draw after extra time, with Spain prevailing 5-4 in the subsequent penalty shootout.
The game began with high intensity, and Spain took an early lead. In the 8th minute, Mikel Oyarzabal converted a penalty, putting the hosts ahead. The Netherlands responded in the second half when Memphis Depay equalized from the penalty spot in the 54th minute, leveling the aggregate score at 3-3.
Spain regained the lead in the 67th minute. A swift counter-attack involving Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams culminated in Oyarzabal heading home after his initial shot was saved. However, the Dutch side remained resilient. In the 79th minute, Ian Maatsen fired a powerful shot past goalkeeper Unai Simón, bringing the score to 2-2 on the night and 4-4 on aggregate.
The match proceeded to extra time, and Spain once again took the lead. In the 103rd minute, 17-year-old sensation Lamine Yamal showcased his skill by dribbling past defenders and scoring, making it 3-2. Yet, the Netherlands refused to relent. Six minutes later, Xavi Simons was fouled in the box and converted the resulting penalty, equalizing at 3-3 and setting the aggregate score at 5-5.
The tension escalated as the match advanced to a penalty shootout. Both teams displayed composure, but the decisive moment arrived during sudden death. Spanish goalkeeper Unai Simón made a crucial save against Donyell Malen’s attempt. Subsequently, midfielder Pedri stepped up and calmly slotted the ball into the top right corner, sealing Spain’s 5-4 victory in the shootout.
