Yamal and Rodri lead Spain to 3-1 win over Czech Republic
Spain beat the Czech Republic 3-1 in the Nations League, with Lamine Yamal and Rodri Hernandez giving the world champions an early advantage. Jiri Slama reduced the deficit, but Mikel Merino restored Spain’s two-goal lead after the Czechs were reduced to 10 men. Spain remain unbeaten in 41 matches.
Spain defeated the Czech Republic 3-1 on Saturday to move three points clear of England at the top of Nations League Group A3. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the sixth minute with a curling finish into the top corner. The Barcelona winger created room on the right side of the box before producing his 11th goal in his last eight matches for club and country.
Rodri Hernandez doubled Spain’s lead after 35 minutes. He arrived in the penalty area and drove the ball into the top corner after it fell to him. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente substituted Yamal at half-time to give him a rest before Tuesday’s match against Croatia.
Without the teenager, the pace of the contest slowed during the second half. The Czech Republic pulled a goal back with 20 minutes remaining. Jiri Slama finished low across Spain goalkeeper David Raya after being played in by Adam Hlozek.
The visitors briefly threatened to equalise, although a goal by Ryan Naderi was disallowed for a foul on Robin Le Normand. Raya had also been fortunate after conceding possession with a misplaced pass while outside his goal. The Czech comeback hopes were damaged when Ladislav Krejci was sent off for a second yellow card after pulling back Spain striker Roberto Fernandez.
Mikel Merino then sealed the victory with a close-range finish late in the match. The result extended Spain’s unbeaten run to 41 games, including their World Cup final victory over Argentina in July. Earlier on Saturday, England beat Croatia 7-0 in Rijeka.
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