Mikel Oyarzabal and Ayoze Pérez were the heroes for Spain on Friday, as their goals handed Luis de la Fuente’s side a 2-1 victory over hosts Denmark, sealing the top spot in UEFA Nations League Group A4 and a place in the quarter-finals.
Despite missing several key players, including Dani Carvajal, Rodri, Lamine Yamal, and Robin Le Normand, Spain came out on top in a match that saw them dominate possession and create better chances. The victory also ensures Spain’s position as a seeded team in the Nations League knockout draw.
Oyarzabal struck first for Spain in the 15th minute, capitalizing on a defensive mix-up. A poor clearance from Denmark’s backline was pounced on by Dani Olmo, who quickly linked up with Pérez to set up Oyarzabal for a clinical finish inside the box. Pérez then doubled the lead in the 58th minute, scoring on the counter-attack after a quick pass from Olmo saw him break free behind the Danish defense and slot home past goalkeeper Kasper Schmeichel.
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Denmark, battling to keep their quarter-final hopes alive, mounted a late push. A mistake by Spain’s substitute Fabián Ruiz allowed Denmark’s Gustav Isaksen to pounce on a loose ball, scoring a consolation goal in the 79th minute after a poor pass back put Spain goalkeeper David Raya under pressure.
“We came here with the objective of winning. We knew we were going to have to suffer a bit but we’re happy with the result, the first place,” Oyarzabal said after the match.
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Spain’s victory brought their total points in the group to 13, six ahead of second-placed Denmark, who still have one match to play. Switzerland, who drew 1-1 with Serbia, were relegated after finishing last with just two points. Serbia sit in third place with five points.
Denmark will need at least a draw in their final match against Serbia on Monday to secure second place and advance to the quarter-finals.
Despite missing key players and having already secured qualification after last month’s 3-0 win over Serbia, Spain were composed and clinical in their execution. The Spanish team showed their strength in depth, with Pérez and Oyarzabal continuing to shine in the absence of their star players.
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With their place in the Nations League quarter-finals now confirmed, Spain will look to continue their excellent form as they head into the knockout rounds later next year.