
Spain enters the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final on a remarkable 37-match unbeaten run, boasting the tournament's best defensive record. But standing in their way is Lionel Messi, who hopes to end his international career with another World Cup title. Can Spain's disciplined defense and captain Rodri stop the Argentine legend in football's biggest match?

Spain vs Argentina: Can Rodri Stop Lionel Messi in the Final? | Wion News 

The FIFA World Cup 2026 final between Argentina and Spain is being viewed as more than just a football showdown. While both teams compete for the biggest prize in football, the final has also drawn political attention due to the contrasting positions of both nations on the Israel-Palestine conflict. Argentina’s President Javier Milei has strengthened ties with Israel and received public support from Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu ahead of the final. Meanwhile, Spain’s Prime Minister Pedro Sánchez has been one of Europe’s strongest critics of Israel’s military actions in Gaza and has supported Palestinian statehood.

Argentina, Spain battle for World Cup Glory amid global political divide | Argentina vs Spain

Spain have booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Final after a dominant 2-0 victory over France in the semifinal. Goals from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro sealed a memorable win as Spain produced another outstanding defensive display. The European champions will now face England or Argentina in the World Cup Final, while France will play in the third-place playoff. Watch the full match highlights, key moments, goals, and post-match analysis from this thrilling semifinal.

Spain beat France 2-0 to reach FIFA World Cup 2026 final | Oyarzabal & Porro seal historic win

Arsenal completed the signing of Euro 2024 winner Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad on Tuesday.

The Spain midfielder will reportedly cost the Gunners an initial 32 million euros ($36 million, £27 million) with a further five million euros in add-ons.

"Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/fears-mounts-over-migrants-welfare-as-saudi-arabia-prepares-for-fifa-world-cup-2034-753820">Fears mount over migrants' welfare as Saudi Arabia prepares for FIFA World Cup 2034</a>

"He has played at the top of the game at both club and international level for a number of seasons now.

"Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality."

Merino scored the winner in Spain's dramatic Euros quarter-final win over hosts Germany.

The 28-year-old has spent the last six years at Sociedad, but does have prior experience of English football.

Merino spent a season at Newcastle in 2017/18 but largely struggled to shine before returning to Spain.

He becomes Arsenal's second new signing of the transfer window after the arrival of Italian international defender Riccardo Calafiori.

Goalkeeper David Raya's loan from Brentford was also made a permanent move.

"Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season," said Arsenal's sporting director Edu.

"He brings us an added high quality of experience, physicality and athleticism as we look forward to this season ahead."

Arsenal have finished second to&nbsp;Manchester&nbsp;City in each of the past two Premier League seasons.

The North London giants are aiming to go one better this season and end a wait since 2003/04 to win the title.

Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Arsenal completed the signing of Euro 2024 winner Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad on Tuesday. The Spain midfielder will reportedly cost the Gunners an initial 32 million euros ($36 million, £27 million) with a further five million euros in add-ons.

Arsenal completed the signing of Euro 2024 winner Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad on Tuesday. The Spain midfielder will reportedly cost the Gunners an initial 32 million euros ($36 million, £27 million) with a further five million euros in add-ons. "Mikel is a player who will bring us huge quality with his experience and versatility," said Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta. Also Read: Fears mount over migrants' welfare as Saudi Arabia prepares for FIFA World Cup 2034 "He has played at the top of the game at both club and international level for a number of seasons now. "Mikel will make our squad significantly stronger, with his technical ability, together with his strong and positive character and personality." Merino scored the winner in Spain's dramatic Euros quarter-final win over hosts Germany. The 28-year-old has spent the last six years at Sociedad, but does have prior experience of English football. Merino spent a season at Newcastle in 2017/18 but largely struggled to shine before returning to Spain. He becomes Arsenal's second new signing of the transfer window after the arrival of Italian international defender Riccardo Calafiori. Goalkeeper David Raya's loan from Brentford was also made a permanent move. "Mikel was a key target for us this summer, and we identified him as a player who can fit perfectly into our squad and profile to improve us, as we aim to build on our strong performances of last season," said Arsenal's sporting director Edu. "He brings us an added high quality of experience, physicality and athleticism as we look forward to this season ahead." Arsenal have finished second to Manchester City in each of the past two Premier League seasons. The North London giants are aiming to go one better this season and end a wait since 2003/04 to win the title. Disclaimer: This story has been published from a news agency feed with minimal edits to adhere to WION's style guide. The headline may have been changed to better reflect the content of the story or to make it more suitable for WION audience.

Premier League: Arsenal complete signing of Spain's Mikel Merino

Spain beat England 2-1 in the Euro 2024 Final on Sunday (Jul&nbsp;14) in Berlin, Germany to win their record fourth European championship title.&nbsp;Spain are now the first team to have four Euro titles, breaking the tie with Germany which also has three titles.

Spain had previously won the continental championship in 1964, 2008 and 2012. England, on the other, hand lost their second Euro final on the trot after losing to Italy in 2020 on penalties.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/england-vs-spain-euro-2024-final-jude-bellinghams-insane-turn-sends-two-spanish-players-crashing-watch-740864">England vs Spain, Euro 2024 Final: Jude Bellingham's 'insane turn' sends two Spanish players crashing</a>

After the first half went goalless, Spain came out blazing in the second half and scored immediately. Nico Williams got Spain ahead in the 47th minute off a pass from Lamine Yamal.

England woke up immediately after that but were unable to break the Spanish defence. Half an hour later Cole Palmer sent a sensational shot into the net in the 70th minute to bring Three Lions alive.

The hopes of the game going to the extra time began looming for England but only for Mikel Oyarzabal to crush them in the 86th minute. The referees checked it for the offside but the goal stayed unlike the English hopes.

Spain's Lamine Yamal was named Young Player of the Tournament while his teammate Rodri was named Player of the Tournament.

Yamal, aged 17, broke multiple records in his maiden major tournament including one in the final.

Yamal, who celebrated his 17th birthday on Saturday (Jul 13), became the youngest player to feature in a major tournament's final (UEFA or EURO) at 17 years and one day.&nbsp;

He went past Brazil great Pele, who played in the 1958 FIFA World Cup Final aged 17 years and 249 days, to achieve the milestone.

Yamal is also the youngest ever to play as well as a goal scorer in the Euro championship. He played his first match against Croatia in the group stage and scored his first goal in the semis against France.

Spain beat England 2-1 in the Euro 2024 Final on Sunday (Jul 14) in Berlin, Germany to win their record fourth European championship title. Spain are now the first team to have four Euro titles, breaking the tie with Germany which also has three titles.

Spain beat England 2-1 in the Euro 2024 Final on Sunday (Jul 14) in Berlin, Germany to win their record fourth European championship title. Spain are now the first team to have four Euro titles, breaking the tie with Germany which also has three titles. Spain had previously won the continental championship in 1964, 2008 and 2012. England, on the other, hand lost their second Euro final on the trot after losing to Italy in 2020 on penalties. Also Watch: England vs Spain, Euro 2024 Final: Jude Bellingham's 'insane turn' sends two Spanish players crashing After the first half went goalless, Spain came out blazing in the second half and scored immediately. Nico Williams got Spain ahead in the 47th minute off a pass from Lamine Yamal. England woke up immediately after that but were unable to break the Spanish defence. Half an hour later Cole Palmer sent a sensational shot into the net in the 70th minute to bring Three Lions alive. The hopes of the game going to the extra time began looming for England but only for Mikel Oyarzabal to crush them in the 86th minute. The referees checked it for the offside but the goal stayed unlike the English hopes. Spain's Lamine Yamal was named Young Player of the Tournament while his teammate Rodri was named Player of the Tournament. Yamal, aged 17, broke multiple records in his maiden major tournament including one in the final. Yamal, who celebrated his 17th birthday on Saturday (Jul 13), became the youngest player to feature in a major tournament's final (UEFA or EURO) at 17 years and one day. He went past Brazil great Pele, who played in the 1958 FIFA World Cup Final aged 17 years and 249 days, to achieve the milestone. Yamal is also the youngest ever to play as well as a goal scorer in the Euro championship. He played his first match against Croatia in the group stage and scored his first goal in the semis against France.

Euro 2024: Spain beat England to win record fourth European title

Spain's teen prodigy Lamine Yamal has revealed that photos of him as a 6-month-old baby with Argentina star Lionel Messi were hidden intentionally.

Yamal's photo as a baby from 2007 with Messi went viral on social media after the 16-year-old's sensational goal against France in the Euro 2024 semifinal on July 9. Messi was seen bathing baby Yamal in the photo which was shot for a charity calendar.

"Obviously, in the moment the photos were taken I wasn't conscious of what was going on at that age," Yamal <a href="https://x.com/JijantesFC/status/1811729778598117798">said on social media channel Jijantes</a> on Friday (Jul 12).

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/canada-was-treated-like-second-class-citizens-at-copa-america-claims-coach-jesse-marsch-740466">‘Canada was treated like second-class citizens at Copa America,’ claims coach Jesse Marsch</a>

"My dad had the photos saved and they never came out, basically because we didn't want the comparisons with Messi."

"No one would be annoyed to be compared with the best to ever play the game, but it's something that could work against you because you're never going to be like him."

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
The Barça Foundation 2008 solidarity calendar, in collaboration with <a href="https://twitter.com/sport?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@sport</a> and <a href="https://twitter.com/UNICEF?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">@unicef</a>, featuring Leo Messi, Lamine Yamal, and other Barça players. 
 
A special campaign to raise funds for UNICEF and for Barça 
Foundation childhood protection programs. 💙❤️ <a href="https://t.co/vlEblHOvW1">pic.twitter.com/vlEblHOvW1</a>
— FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) <a href="https://twitter.com/FCBarcelona/status/1811088683656683877?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 10, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

With the goal against Les Blues in the semis, Yamal is now the youngest ever goal scorer in the Euro championship at 16 years and 362 days.

He overtook the record of&nbsp;Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen, who had also scored against France in Euro 2004, aged 18 years 141 days.

Earlier in the tournament, Yamal also became the youngest player ever to play in the European Championship. He played his first game against Croatia in group stage match aged 16 years 338 days.

The previous youngest player in the Euro championship was Poland midfielder Kacper Kozłowski who played aged 17 years 246 days.

Yamal's father Mounir Nasraoui also shared his son's photo from the shoot with Messi on social media last week with a caption which read: "The beginning of two legends."

Spain, the three-time Euro championship winners, will now face England in the final on Sunday (Jul 14) in Berlin, Germany.

Spain's teen prodigy Lamine Yamal has revealed that photos of him as a 6-month-old baby with Argentina star Lionel Messi were hidden intentionally. Yamal's photo as a baby from 2007 with Messi went viral on social media after the 16-year-old's sensational goal against France in the Euro 2024 semifinal on July 9.

Spain's teen prodigy Lamine Yamal has revealed that photos of him as a 6-month-old baby with Argentina star Lionel Messi were hidden intentionally. Yamal's photo as a baby from 2007 with Messi went viral on social media after the 16-year-old's sensational goal against France in the Euro 2024 semifinal on July 9. Messi was seen bathing baby Yamal in the photo which was shot for a charity calendar. "Obviously, in the moment the photos were taken I wasn't conscious of what was going on at that age," Yamal said on social media channel Jijantes on Friday (Jul 12). Also Read: ‘Canada was treated like second-class citizens at Copa America,’ claims coach Jesse Marsch "My dad had the photos saved and they never came out, basically because we didn't want the comparisons with Messi." "No one would be annoyed to be compared with the best to ever play the game, but it's something that could work against you because you're never going to be like him." The Barça Foundation 2008 solidarity calendar, in collaboration with @sport and @unicef, featuring Leo Messi, Lamine Yamal, and other Barça players. A special campaign to raise funds for UNICEF and for Barça Foundation childhood protection programs. 💙❤️ pic.twitter.com/vlEblHOvW1 — FC Barcelona (@FCBarcelona) July 10, 2024 × With the goal against Les Blues in the semis, Yamal is now the youngest ever goal scorer in the Euro championship at 16 years and 362 days. He overtook the record of Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen, who had also scored against France in Euro 2004, aged 18 years 141 days. Earlier in the tournament, Yamal also became the youngest player ever to play in the European Championship. He played his first game against Croatia in group stage match aged 16 years 338 days. The previous youngest player in the Euro championship was Poland midfielder Kacper Kozłowski who played aged 17 years 246 days. Yamal's father Mounir Nasraoui also shared his son's photo from the shoot with Messi on social media last week with a caption which read: "The beginning of two legends." Spain, the three-time Euro championship winners, will now face England in the final on Sunday (Jul 14) in Berlin, Germany.

Spain's Lamine Yamal reveals truth behind viral photo with Lionel Messi | Read Inside

Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever to score a goal in European Championship as Spain beat France 2-1 in the Euro 2024 semifinal on Tuesday (Jul 9) in Germany.

Yamal, aged 16 years and 362 days, scored his first goal in the 21st minute of&nbsp;Spain's sixth victory on the trot in the ongoing tournament.

Yamal's goal also brought Spain level at 1-1 after France took an early lead in the game. Kolo Muani converted a header on a brilliant Kylian Mbappe assist in the eighth minute to get France ahead.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-spains-lamine-yamal-becomes-youngest-goal-scorer-in-european-championship-history-739407">Euro 2024: Spain's Lamine Yamal becomes youngest goal scorer in European Championship history</a>

Four minutes later, Yamal was again in action as he slipped a pass to Dani Olmo. Olmo immediately passed to Nava who then crossed it back towards Olmo who touched it with enough delicacy towards the goal.

France's Kounde, however, touched the ball in the end before it went in but the referees gave it to Olmo.

Spain was the better side overall, keeping 59 percent possession of the ball throughout the game while France had 41 percent.

France, however, made nine attempts at goal but only three were on the target while Spain converted two out of their six attempts.

Both team were handed two yellow cards each with France registering 14 fouls against Spain's nine.

Spain will now play winner of England vs Netherlands match in the final to make attempt to win their fourth Euro title.

Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever to score a goal in European Championship as Spain beat France 2-1 in the Euro 2024 semifinal on Tuesday (Jul 9) in Germany.

Lamine Yamal became the youngest ever to score a goal in European Championship as Spain beat France 2-1 in the Euro 2024 semifinal on Tuesday (Jul 9) in Germany. Yamal, aged 16 years and 362 days, scored his first goal in the 21st minute of Spain's sixth victory on the trot in the ongoing tournament. Yamal's goal also brought Spain level at 1-1 after France took an early lead in the game. Kolo Muani converted a header on a brilliant Kylian Mbappe assist in the eighth minute to get France ahead. Also Read: Euro 2024: Spain's Lamine Yamal becomes youngest goal scorer in European Championship history Four minutes later, Yamal was again in action as he slipped a pass to Dani Olmo. Olmo immediately passed to Nava who then crossed it back towards Olmo who touched it with enough delicacy towards the goal. France's Kounde, however, touched the ball in the end before it went in but the referees gave it to Olmo. Spain was the better side overall, keeping 59 percent possession of the ball throughout the game while France had 41 percent. France, however, made nine attempts at goal but only three were on the target while Spain converted two out of their six attempts. Both team were handed two yellow cards each with France registering 14 fouls against Spain's nine. Spain will now play winner of England vs Netherlands match in the final to make attempt to win their fourth Euro title.

Euro 2024: Yamal, Olmo star as Spain outclass France in semifinal

Spain's Lamine Yamal is now the youngest ever goal scorer in the Euro championship. Yamal, aged 16 years and 362 days, scored his first goal in the 21st minute of the semifinal against France on Tuesday (Jul 9) in ongoing Euro 2024 in Germany.

He overtook the record from Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen, who had also scored against France in Euro 2004, aged 18 years 141 days.

Yamal's goal also brought Spain level at 1-1 after France took an early lead in the game. Kolo Muani converted a header on a brilliant Kylian Mbappe assist in the eighth minute to get France ahead.

Also Watch:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/football/euro-2024-spain-vs-france-mbappe-assist-yamal-curler-highlight-supercharged-first-half-watch-739403">Euro 2024, Spain vs France: Mbappe assist, Yamal curler highlight supercharged first half</a>

Rattled by the early goal, Spain got into charged up mode almost instantly, making several attempts to equalise the score. The moment came soon about 12 minute later with Lamine Yamal netting the equaliser for Spain.

The 16-year-old received a pass about 25 yards from the goalpost. Standing right side near&nbsp;the box, he paused for moment before kicking a stunning curler in the top left corner. Have a look at the goal here:

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-media-max-width="560">
Stop that Lamine Yamal. <a href="https://t.co/WNuax2D0FF">pic.twitter.com/WNuax2D0FF</a>
— Stop That Football (@stopthatfooty) <a href="https://twitter.com/stopthatfooty/status/1810756280799146423?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 9, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Earlier in the tournament, Yamal also became the youngest player ever to play in the European Championship. He played his first game against Croatia in group stage match aged 16 years 338 days.

The previous youngest player in the Euro championship was Poland midfielder Kacper Kozłowski who played aged 17 years 246 days.

Spain went into the half-time with 2-1 lead. Dani Olmo scored the second goal for Spain, four minutes after Yamal's equaliser.

Overall, both team went neck-to-neck in the first half with Spain keeping 56 percent possession of the ball while France going with 44 percent.

The Spanish team made five shots on target and converted two of them into goals while France scored once in their three attempts on the target.

As for fouls, Spain were one ahead with six fouls in the first half and received a yellow card as well. &nbsp;

Spain's Lamine Yamal is now the youngest ever goal scorer in the Euro championship. Yamal, aged 16 years and 362 days, scored his first goal in the 21st minute of the semifinal against France on Tuesday (Jul 9) in ongoing Euro 2024 in Germany.

Spain's Lamine Yamal is now the youngest ever goal scorer in the Euro championship. Yamal, aged 16 years and 362 days, scored his first goal in the 21st minute of the semifinal against France on Tuesday (Jul 9) in ongoing Euro 2024 in Germany. He overtook the record from Swiss player Johan Vonlanthen, who had also scored against France in Euro 2004, aged 18 years 141 days. Yamal's goal also brought Spain level at 1-1 after France took an early lead in the game. Kolo Muani converted a header on a brilliant Kylian Mbappe assist in the eighth minute to get France ahead. Also Watch: Euro 2024, Spain vs France: Mbappe assist, Yamal curler highlight supercharged first half Rattled by the early goal, Spain got into charged up mode almost instantly, making several attempts to equalise the score. The moment came soon about 12 minute later with Lamine Yamal netting the equaliser for Spain. The 16-year-old received a pass about 25 yards from the goalpost. Standing right side near the box, he paused for moment before kicking a stunning curler in the top left corner. Have a look at the goal here: Stop that Lamine Yamal. pic.twitter.com/WNuax2D0FF — Stop That Football (@stopthatfooty) July 9, 2024 × Earlier in the tournament, Yamal also became the youngest player ever to play in the European Championship. He played his first game against Croatia in group stage match aged 16 years 338 days. The previous youngest player in the Euro championship was Poland midfielder Kacper Kozłowski who played aged 17 years 246 days. Spain went into the half-time with 2-1 lead. Dani Olmo scored the second goal for Spain, four minutes after Yamal's equaliser. Overall, both team went neck-to-neck in the first half with Spain keeping 56 percent possession of the ball while France going with 44 percent. The Spanish team made five shots on target and converted two of them into goals while France scored once in their three attempts on the target. As for fouls, Spain were one ahead with six fouls in the first half and received a yellow card as well.

Euro 2024: Spain's Lamine Yamal becomes youngest goal scorer in European Championship history

Spain broke German hearts in the Euro 2024 quarterfinal after they beat the hosts in a thrilling contest in Stuttgart on Friday (July 5). Mikel Merino was the hero of the match when he scored the winning goal in the 120th minute and sealed a famous 2-1 win for Spain. The defeat also means legendary midfielder Toni Kroos will drop curtains on his illustrious career having already announced his intention to retire from all forms of the game.

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<blockquote class="twitter-tweet">
🇪🇸 Spain are into the final 4!<a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/EURO2024?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#EURO2024</a> | <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/ESPGER?src=hash&amp;ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">#ESPGER</a> <a href="https://t.co/zas6BBey0P">pic.twitter.com/zas6BBey0P</a>
— UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) <a href="https://twitter.com/EURO2024/status/1809296107387908149?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">July 5, 2024</a></blockquote>
<script async src="https://platform.twitter.com/widgets.js" charset="utf-8"></script></div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

<h2>Spain book semis spot</h2>

Squaring off for a place in the semis, Spain took the lead in the 51st minute when Dani Olmo got on the end of a Lamine Yamal square ball to nod home the opening goal. Spain would continue to attack the opposition as they opted not to sit back. Germany on the other hand also put in bodies forward to get the equalising goal. German manager Julian Nagelsmann made a bold decision in the dying moments when he brought Thomas Muller in place of Jonathan Tah.

The move would later pay dividends as Germany scored the equalising goal in the 89th minute. The goal by Florian Wirtz was deflected off Dani Carvajal who would later get sent off for two yellow cards. With a score of 1-1 after the full time, the match went into extra time with both times again having good chances.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/how-mothers-love-made-rohit-sharma-blush-upon-arrival-in-mumbai-watch-738240">How mother’s love made Rohit Sharma blush upon arrival in Mumbai – WATCH</a>

In the second half of extra time Spain defender Marc Cucurella was fortunate to avoid a penalty shout as a shot deflected off his arm in the penalty area.

However, it was Spain who came with the decisive moment when they broke through on goal before Mikel Merino scored the winning goal to knock out the hosts Germany.

<h2>Toni ends illustrious career</h2>

The defeat means Kroos’ stint as a professional footballer came to an end having been a great servant to German football. He had earlier ended his club career with Real Madrid when he lifted a record-equaling sixth Champions League title. With Germany, he had a successful career but never won the European Championships. However, his biggest achievement came in the 2014 FIFA World Cup where he played a pivotal role in the nation’s win.

Spain broke German hearts in the Euro 2024 quarterfinal after they beat the hosts in a thrilling contest in Stuttgart on Friday (July 5). Mikel Merino was the hero of the match when he scored the winning goal in the 120th minute and sealed a famous 2-1 win for Spain.

Spain broke German hearts in the Euro 2024 quarterfinal after they beat the hosts in a thrilling contest in Stuttgart on Friday (July 5). Mikel Merino was the hero of the match when he scored the winning goal in the 120th minute and sealed a famous 2-1 win for Spain. The defeat also means legendary midfielder Toni Kroos will drop curtains on his illustrious career having already announced his intention to retire from all forms of the game. 🇪🇸 Spain are into the final 4!#EURO2024 | #ESPGER pic.twitter.com/zas6BBey0P — UEFA EURO 2024 (@EURO2024) July 5, 2024 × Spain book semis spot Squaring off for a place in the semis, Spain took the lead in the 51st minute when Dani Olmo got on the end of a Lamine Yamal square ball to nod home the opening goal. Spain would continue to attack the opposition as they opted not to sit back. Germany on the other hand also put in bodies forward to get the equalising goal. German manager Julian Nagelsmann made a bold decision in the dying moments when he brought Thomas Muller in place of Jonathan Tah. The move would later pay dividends as Germany scored the equalising goal in the 89th minute. The goal by Florian Wirtz was deflected off Dani Carvajal who would later get sent off for two yellow cards. With a score of 1-1 after the full time, the match went into extra time with both times again having good chances. ALSO READ | How mother’s love made Rohit Sharma blush upon arrival in Mumbai – WATCH In the second half of extra time Spain defender Marc Cucurella was fortunate to avoid a penalty shout as a shot deflected off his arm in the penalty area. However, it was Spain who came with the decisive moment when they broke through on goal before Mikel Merino scored the winning goal to knock out the hosts Germany. Toni ends illustrious career The defeat means Kroos’ stint as a professional footballer came to an end having been a great servant to German football. He had earlier ended his club career with Real Madrid when he lifted a record-equaling sixth Champions League title. With Germany, he had a successful career but never won the European Championships. However, his biggest achievement came in the 2014 FIFA World Cup where he played a pivotal role in the nation’s win.

Euro 2024: Spain continue flawless run to knockout hosts Germany; Kroos drops curtains on illustrious career

Three-time champions Spain could be barred from participating in Euro 2024 edition over government meddling in Spanish football association. FIFA and UEFA, football's governing bodies, have asked Spanish football association (REEF) about the involvement of government in daily work. The country could also lose its 2030 FIFA World Cup hosting rights as well.

According to the news outlet the Sun, Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Uribes, the president of Spain’s Supreme Sports Council, has sent a letter to both, UEFA and FIFA, explaining role of government in Spanish FA's working.&nbsp;

The governing football bodies, however, haven't responded kindly to Rodriguez-Uribes' explanation and have asked some questions:

<ul>
	<li>On what legal and /or factual basis was the Commission appointed?</li>
	<li>Who makes up the Commission and who appointed its members?</li>
	<li>What is the Commission’s exact mandate?</li>
	<li>What powers does the Commission have?</li>
	<li>What relationship does the Commission have with the statutory decision-making bodies in the RFEF?</li>
</ul>

Failing to get a satisfactory answers, Spain could lose on its participation in the upcoming Euro 2024. The tournament is scheduled to be played in Germany from June 15. The month-long tournament has Spain in Group B alongside Italy, Croatia, and Albania.

Furthermore, Spanish football league LaLiga clubs Real Madrid and Barcelona could also be banned from taking part in next year's Champions League as cascading affect.

The government started to take part in football association's functions after Luis Rubiales' infamous kiss scandal in 2023 Women’s World Cup. Rubiales, 46, had resigned following global outrage after he forcibly kissed Women's World Cup star Jenni Hermoso last summer after the final.

He subsequently has also been facing probe regarding financial irregularities during his time in chare which saw Spanish Super Cup being transferred to Saudi Arabia in 2020.

It returned to Spain for a year during the Covid-19 pandemic but the subsequent three editions have returned to the oil-rich Gulf state.&nbsp;

Three-time champions Spain could be barred from participating in Euro 2024 edition over government meddling in Spanish football association. FIFA and UEFA, football's governing bodies, have asked Spanish football association (REEF) about the involvement of government in daily work.

Three-time champions Spain could be barred from participating in Euro 2024 edition over government meddling in Spanish football association. FIFA and UEFA, football's governing bodies, have asked Spanish football association (REEF) about the involvement of government in daily work. The country could also lose its 2030 FIFA World Cup hosting rights as well. According to the news outlet the Sun, Jose Manuel Rodriguez-Uribes, the president of Spain’s Supreme Sports Council, has sent a letter to both, UEFA and FIFA, explaining role of government in Spanish FA's working. The governing football bodies, however, haven't responded kindly to Rodriguez-Uribes' explanation and have asked some questions: On what legal and /or factual basis was the Commission appointed? Who makes up the Commission and who appointed its members? What is the Commission’s exact mandate? What powers does the Commission have? What relationship does the Commission have with the statutory decision-making bodies in the RFEF? Failing to get a satisfactory answers, Spain could lose on its participation in the upcoming Euro 2024. The tournament is scheduled to be played in Germany from June 15. The month-long tournament has Spain in Group B alongside Italy, Croatia, and Albania. Furthermore, Spanish football league LaLiga clubs Real Madrid and Barcelona could also be banned from taking part in next year's Champions League as cascading affect. The government started to take part in football association's functions after Luis Rubiales' infamous kiss scandal in 2023 Women’s World Cup. Rubiales, 46, had resigned following global outrage after he forcibly kissed Women's World Cup star Jenni Hermoso last summer after the final. He subsequently has also been facing probe regarding financial irregularities during his time in chare which saw Spanish Super Cup being transferred to Saudi Arabia in 2020. It returned to Spain for a year during the Covid-19 pandemic but the subsequent three editions have returned to the oil-rich Gulf state.

Spain to be banned from participating in Euro 2024? All you need to know

Brazil's Lucas Paqueta scored a penalty deep in added time to rescue a fortunate 3-3 draw with Spain in an ill-tempered friendly at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium on Tuesday (March 26) as part of an anti-racism campaign.

The hosts dominated proceedings early on and youngsters Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams were a constant menace running in the channels.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/embarrassing-shambolic-fans-seethe-after-afghanistan-beat-india-2-1-in-world-cup-qualifiers-watch-704566">Fans seethe after Afghanistan beat India 2-1 in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers</a>

It was the 16-year-old Yamal who earned Spain a contentious penalty in the 12th minute as he went down under a challenge from Joao Gomes after fine individual play on the right wing.

The two coaches heaped praise on Yamal's performance, as well as that of future Real Madrid star Endrick, who scored in his first game at Madrid's stadium to level at 2-2.

Spain got back in front in the 86th minute following another contentious refereeing decision which sparked fury on the visitors' bench, with stadium security forced to intervene. Rodri slotted away his second penalty of the game before Paqueta's penalty at the death ended the match 3-3.

<h2>Germany win against Netherlands</h2>

Niclas Fuellkrug headed in an 85th minute goal to give Euro 2024 hosts Germany a 2-1 comeback victory over Netherlands in their international friendly on Tuesday (March 26) and make it two victories from two matches in the past four days.

The Germans had scored after only seven seconds in their 2-0 win over France on Saturday but this time it was their opponents who struck after four minutes with Joey Veerman volleying in following a mistake by defender Maximilian Mittelstaedt.

The hosts, who had more than 70% possession in the first half hour, levelled seven minutes later with Mittelstaedt making amends with perfectly curled shot into the top corner.

Netherlands, winners 4-0 against Scotland on Friday, thought they had done enough for a draw with keeper Bart Verbruggen stopping shots from Jamal Musiala and Thomas Mueller but he was beaten by Fuellkrug, with the ball crossing the line despite the keeper's effort.

Brazil's Lucas Paqueta scored a penalty deep in added time to rescue a fortunate 3-3 draw with Spain in an ill-tempered friendly at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium on Tuesday (March 26) as part of an anti-racism campaign.

Brazil's Lucas Paqueta scored a penalty deep in added time to rescue a fortunate 3-3 draw with Spain in an ill-tempered friendly at the Santiago Bernabeu stadium on Tuesday (March 26) as part of an anti-racism campaign. The hosts dominated proceedings early on and youngsters Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams were a constant menace running in the channels. Also Read: Fans seethe after Afghanistan beat India 2-1 in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers It was the 16-year-old Yamal who earned Spain a contentious penalty in the 12th minute as he went down under a challenge from Joao Gomes after fine individual play on the right wing. The two coaches heaped praise on Yamal's performance, as well as that of future Real Madrid star Endrick, who scored in his first game at Madrid's stadium to level at 2-2. Spain got back in front in the 86th minute following another contentious refereeing decision which sparked fury on the visitors' bench, with stadium security forced to intervene. Rodri slotted away his second penalty of the game before Paqueta's penalty at the death ended the match 3-3. Germany win against Netherlands Niclas Fuellkrug headed in an 85th minute goal to give Euro 2024 hosts Germany a 2-1 comeback victory over Netherlands in their international friendly on Tuesday (March 26) and make it two victories from two matches in the past four days. The Germans had scored after only seven seconds in their 2-0 win over France on Saturday but this time it was their opponents who struck after four minutes with Joey Veerman volleying in following a mistake by defender Maximilian Mittelstaedt. The hosts, who had more than 70% possession in the first half hour, levelled seven minutes later with Mittelstaedt making amends with perfectly curled shot into the top corner. Netherlands, winners 4-0 against Scotland on Friday, thought they had done enough for a draw with keeper Bart Verbruggen stopping shots from Jamal Musiala and Thomas Mueller but he was beaten by Fuellkrug, with the ball crossing the line despite the keeper's effort.

Brazil come from behind to draw friendly against Spain; Germany beat Netherlands in comeback win

Reigning champions Italy were placed in the same group as Spain in Saturday's draw for Euro 2024, while France will come up against the Netherlands and England avoided any of the toughest opponents.

Gareth Southgate's much-fancied England side will meet Slovenia, Denmark and Serbia, with hosts Germany taking on Scotland in the tournament's opening game on June 14 in Munich.

Italy, who beat England on penalties at Wembley in the final of the last European Championship in 2021, and Spain will also face Croatia and Albania in Group B.

Spain, victors over Italy in the final of Euro 2012, will take on 2018 World Cup runners-up Croatia in their opening match in Berlin on June 15.

Italy were always likely to face a difficult draw after being placed in the bottom pot based on their results in qualifying, when they scraped through with a 0-0 stalemate against Ukraine in their final match.

"When you're in the fourth pot you know that you have a lot of teams ahead of you, but you can't forget that you represent Italy and you have to play every match with pride," coach Luciano Spalletti told broadcaster RAI.

The meeting of France, the 2022 World Cup runners-up, and the Netherlands will be the other heavyweight tie of the opening phase.

They were in the same section in qualifying, with France winning both encounters. The two nations are in Group D along with Austria and a play-off winner, which will be one of Poland, Wales, Finland or Estonia.

<h2>'Ready for the expectation'</h2>

England, in contrast, will have few complaints about their opponents in Group C, although a Denmark side ranked 19th in the world were arguably the team to avoid from the second pot of seeds.

Southgate's team, considered the favourites along with France for the tournament, will take on Serbia in their opening game in Gelsenkirchen on June 16.

"I've stood here after quite a few draws and you always feel the same way, you can look at it on paper but the games aren't played on paper," Southgate told the BBC.

"One or two teams that you are obviously glad to avoid, especially in pot three, pot four, but all the teams we play are more than capable."

He added: "We've developed a lot as a team over the past few years, we're used to these big games, we're ready for the expectation and we hope we can give our supporters some more brilliant nights as I think we have in the last few tournaments."

If England top their group, and France also finish first in their section, the two sides would find themselves on the same side of the draw in the knockout phase and would be on course to meet in the semi-finals.

Scotland, who famously lost to Brazil in the opening match of the 1998 World Cup, will again have the honour of featuring in the tournament's curtain-raiser when they meet Germany to start in Group A.

Hungary and Switzerland complete that section, which could be one of the most evenly-matched.

"It'll be nice to open the tournament, be involved in that first game, and hopefully we can set the tournament off with a good match," Scotland manager Steve Clarke told the BBC.

<h2>Germany face Scotland in opener</h2>

Germany have been European champions three times, a record shared with Spain, but there are big doubts about their form heading into the tournament.

"It will be a very nice start against Scotland in Munich. The other games will also be exciting duels. It's not a group of death, but a very good one," said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann.

Euro 2016 winners Portugal were drawn in Group F with Turkey, the Czech Republic and a play-off winner from either Greece, Georgia, Luxembourg or Kazakhstan.

Belgium are in Group E alongside Slovakia, Romania and the winner of the other play-off path, which will be Israel, Iceland, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Ukraine.

The month-long Euro, played in 10 cities across Germany, will conclude with the final in Berlin on July 14.

The top two teams in each group will qualify for the last 16, along with the four best third-placed sides.

Earlier on Saturday, European football's governing body UEFA announced that the total prize pot for competing nations will be 331 million euros ($360m).

Each team gets 9.25 million euros as a starting amount and will earn up to a maximum of 28.25 million euros for the winner, if they win all their group games.

Reigning champions Italy were placed in the same group as Spain in Saturday's draw for Euro 2024, while France will come up against the Netherlands and England avoided any of the toughest opponents.

Reigning champions Italy were placed in the same group as Spain in Saturday's draw for Euro 2024, while France will come up against the Netherlands and England avoided any of the toughest opponents. Gareth Southgate's much-fancied England side will meet Slovenia, Denmark and Serbia, with hosts Germany taking on Scotland in the tournament's opening game on June 14 in Munich. Italy, who beat England on penalties at Wembley in the final of the last European Championship in 2021, and Spain will also face Croatia and Albania in Group B. Spain, victors over Italy in the final of Euro 2012, will take on 2018 World Cup runners-up Croatia in their opening match in Berlin on June 15. Italy were always likely to face a difficult draw after being placed in the bottom pot based on their results in qualifying, when they scraped through with a 0-0 stalemate against Ukraine in their final match. "When you're in the fourth pot you know that you have a lot of teams ahead of you, but you can't forget that you represent Italy and you have to play every match with pride," coach Luciano Spalletti told broadcaster RAI. The meeting of France, the 2022 World Cup runners-up, and the Netherlands will be the other heavyweight tie of the opening phase. They were in the same section in qualifying, with France winning both encounters. The two nations are in Group D along with Austria and a play-off winner, which will be one of Poland, Wales, Finland or Estonia. 'Ready for the expectation' England, in contrast, will have few complaints about their opponents in Group C, although a Denmark side ranked 19th in the world were arguably the team to avoid from the second pot of seeds. Southgate's team, considered the favourites along with France for the tournament, will take on Serbia in their opening game in Gelsenkirchen on June 16. "I've stood here after quite a few draws and you always feel the same way, you can look at it on paper but the games aren't played on paper," Southgate told the BBC. "One or two teams that you are obviously glad to avoid, especially in pot three, pot four, but all the teams we play are more than capable." He added: "We've developed a lot as a team over the past few years, we're used to these big games, we're ready for the expectation and we hope we can give our supporters some more brilliant nights as I think we have in the last few tournaments." If England top their group, and France also finish first in their section, the two sides would find themselves on the same side of the draw in the knockout phase and would be on course to meet in the semi-finals. Scotland, who famously lost to Brazil in the opening match of the 1998 World Cup, will again have the honour of featuring in the tournament's curtain-raiser when they meet Germany to start in Group A. Hungary and Switzerland complete that section, which could be one of the most evenly-matched. "It'll be nice to open the tournament, be involved in that first game, and hopefully we can set the tournament off with a good match," Scotland manager Steve Clarke told the BBC. Germany face Scotland in opener Germany have been European champions three times, a record shared with Spain, but there are big doubts about their form heading into the tournament. "It will be a very nice start against Scotland in Munich. The other games will also be exciting duels. It's not a group of death, but a very good one," said Germany coach Julian Nagelsmann. Euro 2016 winners Portugal were drawn in Group F with Turkey, the Czech Republic and a play-off winner from either Greece, Georgia, Luxembourg or Kazakhstan. Belgium are in Group E alongside Slovakia, Romania and the winner of the other play-off path, which will be Israel, Iceland, Bosnia and Herzegovina or Ukraine. The month-long Euro, played in 10 cities across Germany, will conclude with the final in Berlin on July 14. The top two teams in each group will qualify for the last 16, along with the four best third-placed sides. Earlier on Saturday, European football's governing body UEFA announced that the total prize pot for competing nations will be 331 million euros ($360m). Each team gets 9.25 million euros as a starting amount and will earn up to a maximum of 28.25 million euros for the winner, if they win all their group games.

Italy vs Spain in Euro 2024 group stage, England handed comfort draw

Spanish football club Barcelona have confirmed that their star player Gavi suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and will undergo surgery, which rules him out of competitive football for at least seven to nine months.&nbsp;

Gavi suffered the injury during his national team's Euro qualifier match against Georgia on Sunday (Nov 19). The teenager was forced off the field in tears and it quickly became evident that he had suffered some serious damage.&nbsp;

“Tests carried out on Monday morning on the first team player Gavi have shown that he has a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and an associated injury to the lateral meniscus," Barcelona said in a statement.

"The player will have surgery in the coming days after which a new medical update will be released.”

The injury means that Gavi will miss the rest of the La Liga season as well as the Champions League campaign for the Catalan side. As for the national team, it looks highly unlikely that he will be available for Euro 2024, scheduled to take place in Germany in June&nbsp;2024.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/fing-hell-alan-shearer-slams-virgil-van-dijk-for-playing-too-much-football-claims-647914">Also read |&nbsp;'F***ing hell': Alan Shearer slams Virgil van Dijk for 'playing too much football' claims</a>

<h2>Massive blow for Spain and Barcelona</h2>

The injury is a massive blow as Gavi, despite being a teenager, had become a central part of both Barcelona and Spain. Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has described the boy wonder as the “heart and soul” due to his tenacity and desire for the game.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, however, has come under heavy scrutiny from the fans for playing Gavi in a dead-rubber where most of the starters had been given a rest.&nbsp;

Speaking after the match, De la Fuente said the dressing room wore the look of a funeral.&nbsp;

“The dressing room is like a funeral parlour. It was an accident, it could have happened to anyone," said De la Fuente who revealed that it was a few minutes after Luka Lochoshvili's challenge that Gavi suffered the injury, attempting to control the ball midway through the first half.&nbsp;

The injury has reopened the debate about players being forced to play an excessive number of games at the elite level. Still only 19, Gavi has already played over 100 times for Barcelona and has made 27 appearances for Spain.

The likes of Gavi and other top footballers are forced to play over 60 games a season if their club team goes the distance in all tournaments. With international games, the tally goes upward of 70, meaning the players have less and less recovery time between the matches.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies) 
&nbsp;

Spanish football club Barcelona have confirmed that their star player Gavi suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and will undergo surgery, which rules him out of competitive football for at least seven to nine months.

Spanish football club Barcelona have confirmed that their star player Gavi suffered an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) tear and will undergo surgery, which rules him out of competitive football for at least seven to nine months. Gavi suffered the injury during his national team's Euro qualifier match against Georgia on Sunday (Nov 19). The teenager was forced off the field in tears and it quickly became evident that he had suffered some serious damage. “Tests carried out on Monday morning on the first team player Gavi have shown that he has a complete tear of the anterior cruciate ligament in his right knee and an associated injury to the lateral meniscus," Barcelona said in a statement. "The player will have surgery in the coming days after which a new medical update will be released.” The injury means that Gavi will miss the rest of the La Liga season as well as the Champions League campaign for the Catalan side. As for the national team, it looks highly unlikely that he will be available for Euro 2024, scheduled to take place in Germany in June 2024. Also read | 'F***ing hell': Alan Shearer slams Virgil van Dijk for 'playing too much football' claims Massive blow for Spain and Barcelona The injury is a massive blow as Gavi, despite being a teenager, had become a central part of both Barcelona and Spain. Barcelona manager Xavi Hernandez has described the boy wonder as the “heart and soul” due to his tenacity and desire for the game. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente, however, has come under heavy scrutiny from the fans for playing Gavi in a dead-rubber where most of the starters had been given a rest. Speaking after the match, De la Fuente said the dressing room wore the look of a funeral. “The dressing room is like a funeral parlour. It was an accident, it could have happened to anyone," said De la Fuente who revealed that it was a few minutes after Luka Lochoshvili's challenge that Gavi suffered the injury, attempting to control the ball midway through the first half. The injury has reopened the debate about players being forced to play an excessive number of games at the elite level. Still only 19, Gavi has already played over 100 times for Barcelona and has made 27 appearances for Spain. The likes of Gavi and other top footballers are forced to play over 60 games a season if their club team goes the distance in all tournaments. With international games, the tally goes upward of 70, meaning the players have less and less recovery time between the matches. (With inputs from agencies)

Barcelona confirm Gavi suffered ACL tear during Euro 2024 qualifiers

Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and two other Spain players will testify before a judge over the Women's World Cup kiss scandal involving Luis Rubiales, a judicial source said Monday.&nbsp;Putellas, defender Irene Paredes and goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez are all slated to testify on October 2 in the case against Rubiales who is facing sexual assault charges after kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain beat England in the final on August 20.

Rubiales was head of Spain's RFEF football federation at the time but has since resigned. He made his first appearance in court on September 15.&nbsp;Putellas, one of four players who captain the national squad, was quick to publicly defend Hermoso in the scandal that erupted over the forcible kiss, denouncing Rubiales' refusal to resign as "unacceptable".

Barcelona defender Paredes, also a national squad captain, and Rodriguez, who was on the bench for the final, will also testify at next week's session. On Monday, investigating judge Francisco de Jorge heard testimony from Hermoso's brother and one of her friends, the source said.&nbsp;

Both confirmed Hermoso's statements that she did not consent to the kiss and had been under pressure to justify Rubiales' actions.&nbsp;The disgraced former football boss is also facing charges of coercion after Hermoso stated that she "and those close to her had suffered constant ongoing pressure by Luis Rubiales and his professional entourage to justify and condone" his actions.

Also read: <a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/psg-should-take-action-over-homophobic-chants-says-french-sports-minister-amelie-oudea-castera-639499">PSG should take action over homophobic chants, says French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea Castera</a>

<h2>- RFEF members in court Thursday -</h2>

Several experts also testified on Monday, with the judge due to hear testimony from RFEF members on Thursday.&nbsp;It was not immediately clear whether Hermoso -- who has since returned to Mexico where she currently plays for Pachuca FC -- would be called to testify, and if so, when it would happen.&nbsp;

Following the initial hearing, the judge slapped Rubiales with a restraining order, banning him from being within 200 metres of Hermoso. Rubiales' actions in front of the world's cameras sparked a huge backlash, but he refused to resign, prompting FIFA to suspend him and prosecutors to file suit against him before he finally threw in the towel and resigned on September 11, three weeks after the incident.&nbsp;

But the kiss provoked a rebellion within women's football with scores of players staging a strike to demand far-reaching changes within the RFEF.&nbsp; Ahead of their first Nations League match on Friday, the World Cup squad staged a joint protest with their Swedish opponents holding up a giant banner in Spanish saying "It's over" in reference to sexism within football.&nbsp; Spain won the Gothenburg clash 3-2.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and two other Spain players will testify before a judge over the Women's World Cup kiss scandal involving Luis Rubiales, a judicial source said Monday.

Two-time Ballon d'Or winner Alexia Putellas and two other Spain players will testify before a judge over the Women's World Cup kiss scandal involving Luis Rubiales, a judicial source said Monday. Putellas, defender Irene Paredes and goalkeeper Misa Rodriguez are all slated to testify on October 2 in the case against Rubiales who is facing sexual assault charges after kissing midfielder Jenni Hermoso on the lips after Spain beat England in the final on August 20. Rubiales was head of Spain's RFEF football federation at the time but has since resigned. He made his first appearance in court on September 15. Putellas, one of four players who captain the national squad, was quick to publicly defend Hermoso in the scandal that erupted over the forcible kiss, denouncing Rubiales' refusal to resign as "unacceptable". Barcelona defender Paredes, also a national squad captain, and Rodriguez, who was on the bench for the final, will also testify at next week's session. On Monday, investigating judge Francisco de Jorge heard testimony from Hermoso's brother and one of her friends, the source said. Both confirmed Hermoso's statements that she did not consent to the kiss and had been under pressure to justify Rubiales' actions. The disgraced former football boss is also facing charges of coercion after Hermoso stated that she "and those close to her had suffered constant ongoing pressure by Luis Rubiales and his professional entourage to justify and condone" his actions. Also read: PSG should take action over homophobic chants, says French Sports Minister Amelie Oudea Castera - RFEF members in court Thursday - Several experts also testified on Monday, with the judge due to hear testimony from RFEF members on Thursday. It was not immediately clear whether Hermoso -- who has since returned to Mexico where she currently plays for Pachuca FC -- would be called to testify, and if so, when it would happen. Following the initial hearing, the judge slapped Rubiales with a restraining order, banning him from being within 200 metres of Hermoso. Rubiales' actions in front of the world's cameras sparked a huge backlash, but he refused to resign, prompting FIFA to suspend him and prosecutors to file suit against him before he finally threw in the towel and resigned on September 11, three weeks after the incident. But the kiss provoked a rebellion within women's football with scores of players staging a strike to demand far-reaching changes within the RFEF. Ahead of their first Nations League match on Friday, the World Cup squad staged a joint protest with their Swedish opponents holding up a giant banner in Spanish saying "It's over" in reference to sexism within football. Spain won the Gothenburg clash 3-2. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain's Alexia Putellas and two other players to testify in Luis Rubiales case

Spain's World Cup winning squad agreed to end their boycott of the national team early on Wednesday after the country's football federation (RFEF) said it would make "immediate and profound changes" to its structure. The decision was reached around 5 a.m. (0300 GMT) after more than seven hours of meetings at a hotel in Oliva, an hour from Valencia, involving the players, RFEF officials, the National Sports Council (CSD) and the women's players' union FUTPRO.

The players had said they would not represent Spain until there were further changes at the federation, deepening a crisis that started after former (RFEF) boss Luis Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the World Cup presentation ceremony. "A joint commission will be created between RFEF, CSD and players to follow up on the agreements, which will be signed tomorrow," CSD President Victor Francos told reporters. "The players have expressed their concern about the need for profound changes in the RFEF, which has committed to making these changes immediately."

Neither Francos nor Rafael del Amo, president of the RFEF committee for women's football, would elaborate on the changes to be made, only saying they would be announced "soon". "The players see it as a rapprochement of positions. It is the beginning of a long road ahead of us," FUTPRO president Amanda Gutierrez told reporters. "Once again, they have shown themselves to be coherent and the vast majority have decided to stay for the sake of this agreement."

After most of the Women's World Cup winners were selected for upcoming games, the players said in a joint statement they would take the "best decision" for their future and health after they studied the legal implications of being included in a squad list they had asked to be left out. They argued the federation cannot require their presence because they alleged the call-up was not issued within the world's soccer governing body FIFA parameters in terms of timings and procedure.

The players could have faced sanctions including fines of up 30,000 euros ($32,000) and the suspension of their federation licence for two to 15 years according to Spain's Sports Act if they had refused the call-up. Twenty players who said they were boycotting the team were called up by new coach Montse Tome, and while all of them reported for training on Tuesday two decided to leave the squad for "personal reasons".

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/on-strike-six-spain-players-join-squad-in-madrid-amid-punishment-warning-under-law-637572">6 woman Spain players, including 5 on strike, join squad in Madrid amid punishment warning under law</a>

Neither of the players would be sanctioned and it was agreed their identities would remain anonymous. "The first thing they have been told here has been: whoever is not at ease, does not feel strong enough, should know that neither the federation nor the CSD was going to apply a sanctioning process," Francos said.

The revolt by the players was triggered after former RFEF chief Rubiales kissed forward Hermoso on the lips following Spain's World Cup victory. She disputed his insistence the kiss was consensual, sparking a national debate about macho culture in sport and eventually led to Rubiales's resignation.

Hermoso was not in the squad list announced on Monday and accused the RFEF of trying to divide and manipulate the players. Spain are set to make their debut in the Women's Nations League against Sweden in Gothenburg on Friday before playing against Switzerland in Cordoba on Sept. 26.

The Nations League will determine which teams from Europe qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The RFEF said the players would have a late breakfast after resting and will hold their first practice on Wednesday afternoon before travelling to Gothenburg on Thursday morning.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Spain's World Cup winning squad agreed to end their boycott of the national team early on Wednesday after the country's football federation (RFEF) said it would make "immediate and profound changes" to its structure.

Spain's World Cup winning squad agreed to end their boycott of the national team early on Wednesday after the country's football federation (RFEF) said it would make "immediate and profound changes" to its structure. The decision was reached around 5 a.m. (0300 GMT) after more than seven hours of meetings at a hotel in Oliva, an hour from Valencia, involving the players, RFEF officials, the National Sports Council (CSD) and the women's players' union FUTPRO. The players had said they would not represent Spain until there were further changes at the federation, deepening a crisis that started after former (RFEF) boss Luis Rubiales kissed Jenni Hermoso on the lips during the World Cup presentation ceremony. "A joint commission will be created between RFEF, CSD and players to follow up on the agreements, which will be signed tomorrow," CSD President Victor Francos told reporters. "The players have expressed their concern about the need for profound changes in the RFEF, which has committed to making these changes immediately." Neither Francos nor Rafael del Amo, president of the RFEF committee for women's football, would elaborate on the changes to be made, only saying they would be announced "soon". "The players see it as a rapprochement of positions. It is the beginning of a long road ahead of us," FUTPRO president Amanda Gutierrez told reporters. "Once again, they have shown themselves to be coherent and the vast majority have decided to stay for the sake of this agreement." After most of the Women's World Cup winners were selected for upcoming games, the players said in a joint statement they would take the "best decision" for their future and health after they studied the legal implications of being included in a squad list they had asked to be left out. They argued the federation cannot require their presence because they alleged the call-up was not issued within the world's soccer governing body FIFA parameters in terms of timings and procedure. The players could have faced sanctions including fines of up 30,000 euros ($32,000) and the suspension of their federation licence for two to 15 years according to Spain's Sports Act if they had refused the call-up. Twenty players who said they were boycotting the team were called up by new coach Montse Tome, and while all of them reported for training on Tuesday two decided to leave the squad for "personal reasons". Also read: 6 woman Spain players, including 5 on strike, join squad in Madrid amid punishment warning under law Neither of the players would be sanctioned and it was agreed their identities would remain anonymous. "The first thing they have been told here has been: whoever is not at ease, does not feel strong enough, should know that neither the federation nor the CSD was going to apply a sanctioning process," Francos said. The revolt by the players was triggered after former RFEF chief Rubiales kissed forward Hermoso on the lips following Spain's World Cup victory. She disputed his insistence the kiss was consensual, sparking a national debate about macho culture in sport and eventually led to Rubiales's resignation. Hermoso was not in the squad list announced on Monday and accused the RFEF of trying to divide and manipulate the players. Spain are set to make their debut in the Women's Nations League against Sweden in Gothenburg on Friday before playing against Switzerland in Cordoba on Sept. 26. The Nations League will determine which teams from Europe qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. The RFEF said the players would have a late breakfast after resting and will hold their first practice on Wednesday afternoon before travelling to Gothenburg on Thursday morning. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain's Women's World Cup-winning squad to end boycott after federation commit to change

Spanish football federation&nbsp;chief&nbsp;Luis Rubiales quit his post on Sunday after three weeks of scandal over allegations he gave an unsolicited kiss to a player on the women's national team as they celebrated their World Cup victory last month. Rubiales announced his resignation in a statement in which he said his position had become untenable, with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) later confirming he had sent a resignation letter to acting president Pedro Rocha.

His kiss of player Jenni Hermoso after the World Cup win in Sydney on Aug. 20 had caused outrage among players, government officials and many in wider Spanish society and raised questions over sexism in sport. His decision to go came after further blows to his position in the last few days.

A Spanish prosecutor filed a complaint with the High Court against Rubiales on Friday for sexual assault and coercion. The complaint - which came after Hermoso opted earlier in the week to lodge a criminal complaint over the incident - describes how Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the mouth "without her consent" while holding her head with both hands after Spain defeated England to clinch the World Cup.

Rubiales has said the kiss was mutual and consensual and had until Sunday defied calls from players, government officials and others for him to resign. Rubiales had also been suspended for three months from all football activities by&nbsp;FIFA&nbsp;pending an investigation by soccer's world governing body into his actions. "After the rapid suspension carried out by&nbsp;FIFA, plus the rest of the proceedings opened against me, it is clear that I will not be able to return to my position," Rubiales said in his statement. "Insisting on waiting and clinging ... is not going to contribute anything positive, neither to the Federation nor to Spanish football. Among other things, because there are de facto powers that will prevent my return," he added.

He said he had also stepped down as a vice president of European soccer body UEFA. He posted his statement on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter. Reuters reached out to Hermoso's representative for comment on Rubiales' resignation, and they did not return the telephone call. Hermoso, Spain's all-time top scorer with 51 goals, currently plays at Mexican top-tier side Pachuca, where she moved in June 2022 following her second spell at Barcelona.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/premier-league-antony-granted-leave-of-absence-as-manchester-united-star-fights-abuse-allegations-in-brazil-634579">Premier League: Antony granted 'leave of absence' as Manchester United star fights abuse allegations in Brazil</a>

Spanish government ministers, who had been solidly behind Hermoso and others calling for Rubiales to go, celebrated his departure. "The feminist country is advancing faster and faster," Spain's acting Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz posted on X after news of Rubiales' resignation. "The transformation and improvement of our lives is inevitable. We are with you, Jenni, and with all women." "It's over," said Spain's Equality Minister Irene Montero.

The Spanish Football Federation said in a statement that Rubiales had resigned as its president and also as a vice-president of UEFA. "This has been made known to the federal entity through a letter to (acting RFEF president) Pedro Rocha Junco," the RFEF statement said.

Spanish women's players union FUTPRO did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment. Although he stepped down as boss of the federation, Rubiales continued to defend his version of events. A message posted with his statement on Sunday said, "I will defend my honour. I will defend my innocence. I have faith in the future. I have faith in the truth.".

In an interview with journalist Piers Morgan on Sunday Rubiales added he made the decision to resign having talked with family and friends. "Luis, you have to focus on your dignity and continue your life. (Otherwise) you will probably be hurting more people you love and the sport you love," he quoted them as saying.

Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales quit his post on Sunday after three weeks of scandal over allegations he gave an unsolicited kiss to a player on the women's national team as they celebrated their World Cup victory last month.

Spanish football federation chief Luis Rubiales quit his post on Sunday after three weeks of scandal over allegations he gave an unsolicited kiss to a player on the women's national team as they celebrated their World Cup victory last month. Rubiales announced his resignation in a statement in which he said his position had become untenable, with the Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) later confirming he had sent a resignation letter to acting president Pedro Rocha. His kiss of player Jenni Hermoso after the World Cup win in Sydney on Aug. 20 had caused outrage among players, government officials and many in wider Spanish society and raised questions over sexism in sport. His decision to go came after further blows to his position in the last few days. A Spanish prosecutor filed a complaint with the High Court against Rubiales on Friday for sexual assault and coercion. The complaint - which came after Hermoso opted earlier in the week to lodge a criminal complaint over the incident - describes how Rubiales kissed Hermoso on the mouth "without her consent" while holding her head with both hands after Spain defeated England to clinch the World Cup. Rubiales has said the kiss was mutual and consensual and had until Sunday defied calls from players, government officials and others for him to resign. Rubiales had also been suspended for three months from all football activities by FIFA pending an investigation by soccer's world governing body into his actions. "After the rapid suspension carried out by FIFA, plus the rest of the proceedings opened against me, it is clear that I will not be able to return to my position," Rubiales said in his statement. "Insisting on waiting and clinging ... is not going to contribute anything positive, neither to the Federation nor to Spanish football. Among other things, because there are de facto powers that will prevent my return," he added. He said he had also stepped down as a vice president of European soccer body UEFA. He posted his statement on X, the social media platform previously known as Twitter. Reuters reached out to Hermoso's representative for comment on Rubiales' resignation, and they did not return the telephone call. Hermoso, Spain's all-time top scorer with 51 goals, currently plays at Mexican top-tier side Pachuca, where she moved in June 2022 following her second spell at Barcelona. Also read: Premier League: Antony granted 'leave of absence' as Manchester United star fights abuse allegations in Brazil Spanish government ministers, who had been solidly behind Hermoso and others calling for Rubiales to go, celebrated his departure. "The feminist country is advancing faster and faster," Spain's acting Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz posted on X after news of Rubiales' resignation. "The transformation and improvement of our lives is inevitable. We are with you, Jenni, and with all women." "It's over," said Spain's Equality Minister Irene Montero. The Spanish Football Federation said in a statement that Rubiales had resigned as its president and also as a vice-president of UEFA. "This has been made known to the federal entity through a letter to (acting RFEF president) Pedro Rocha Junco," the RFEF statement said. Spanish women's players union FUTPRO did not immediately respond to Reuters' request for comment. Although he stepped down as boss of the federation, Rubiales continued to defend his version of events. A message posted with his statement on Sunday said, "I will defend my honour. I will defend my innocence. I have faith in the future. I have faith in the truth.". In an interview with journalist Piers Morgan on Sunday Rubiales added he made the decision to resign having talked with family and friends. "Luis, you have to focus on your dignity and continue your life. (Otherwise) you will probably be hurting more people you love and the sport you love," he quoted them as saying.

Spain's soccer chief Luis Rubiales quits following kiss scandal

Spanish soccer star&nbsp;Jenni&nbsp;Hermoso&nbsp;has lodged a criminal complaint over the unsolicited kiss by football federation boss Luis Rubiales after Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup, the national prosecutor's office said on Wednesday. Hermoso&nbsp;gave her testimony on Tuesday and the complaint will be processed "as soon as possible", the prosecutor added.

With the complaint, Rubiales could face criminal charges in addition to the ongoing inquiry by Spain's top sport court for "serious misconduct" and an investigation by world soccer governing body FIFA, which has provisionally suspended Rubiales from office. Neither&nbsp;Hermoso's representatives nor Rubiales were immediately available for comment. Rubiales grabbed&nbsp;Hermoso's head and kissed her on the lips during the medal-giving ceremony that followed Spain's 1-0 victory over England in the Women's World Cup final on Aug. 20.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/football-jorge-vilda-says-spain-sacking-unfair-and-undeserved-632956">Football: Jorge Vilda says Spain sacking 'unfair' and 'undeserved'</a>

Late last month, the prosecutor for Spain's High Court said Rubiales could face a sexual assault charge, which carries a prison term of between one and four years, if&nbsp;Hermoso&nbsp;were to file a complaint. The High Court has jurisdiction over the case as the incident took place abroad - in Sydney, Australia.

Hermoso&nbsp;said she did not want to be kissed, and that she felt "vulnerable and a victim of an aggression". Rubiales, who has so far refused to resign despite heavy pressure, said the kiss was "spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual". Rubiales' behaviour has sparked outrage in Spain and abroad. He also grabbed his crotch while standing close to Spain's Queen Letizia and her 16-year-old daughter during the final match.

&nbsp;

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Spanish soccer star Jenni Hermoso has lodged a criminal complaint over the unsolicited kiss by football federation boss Luis Rubiales after Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup, the national prosecutor's office said on Wednesday.

Spanish soccer star Jenni Hermoso has lodged a criminal complaint over the unsolicited kiss by football federation boss Luis Rubiales after Spain's victory in the Women's World Cup, the national prosecutor's office said on Wednesday. Hermoso gave her testimony on Tuesday and the complaint will be processed "as soon as possible", the prosecutor added. With the complaint, Rubiales could face criminal charges in addition to the ongoing inquiry by Spain's top sport court for "serious misconduct" and an investigation by world soccer governing body FIFA, which has provisionally suspended Rubiales from office. Neither Hermoso's representatives nor Rubiales were immediately available for comment. Rubiales grabbed Hermoso's head and kissed her on the lips during the medal-giving ceremony that followed Spain's 1-0 victory over England in the Women's World Cup final on Aug. 20. Also read: Football: Jorge Vilda says Spain sacking 'unfair' and 'undeserved' Late last month, the prosecutor for Spain's High Court said Rubiales could face a sexual assault charge, which carries a prison term of between one and four years, if Hermoso were to file a complaint. The High Court has jurisdiction over the case as the incident took place abroad - in Sydney, Australia. Hermoso said she did not want to be kissed, and that she felt "vulnerable and a victim of an aggression". Rubiales, who has so far refused to resign despite heavy pressure, said the kiss was "spontaneous, mutual, euphoric and consensual". Rubiales' behaviour has sparked outrage in Spain and abroad. He also grabbed his crotch while standing close to Spain's Queen Letizia and her 16-year-old daughter during the final match. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Spain's Jenni Hermoso files criminal complaint over Luis Rubiales' kiss

Veteran former Spain defender Sergio&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;on Monday returned to his home-town club Sevilla after 18 years away.

"It's a very special day, returning home is always a tremendous joy,"&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;told the media.

The 37-year-old former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain player signed a one-year contract after passing the traditional medical, the club announced.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/tennis-carlos-alcaraz-enters-quarter-finals-ons-jabeur-crashes-out-in-us-open-632424">Carlos Alcaraz enters quarter finals, Ons Jabeur crashes out in US Open</a>

"Happy to return and try to contribute as soon as possible which is the important thing," the player added.

Sevilla sit bottom of La Liga without a point after three matches but as Europa League champions have qualified for the Champions League group stage. They start their campaign on September 20.

Ramos&nbsp;left Sevilla at the age of 19 to join Real Madrid for a then record fee for a Spanish defender.

In 2021,&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;signed for PSG but had been without a club since his contract with the French champions ran out in June.

According to the local press,&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;turned down a lucrative offer from Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia.

"I was eager to return home. It made no sense to go anywhere else without passing through here," said&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;who was born on the outskirts of Seville.

In 16 seasons at the Bernabeu,&nbsp;Ramos&nbsp;won La Liga five times and the Champions League four times.

He played 180 games for Spain, scoring 23 goals, and was part of the team that won the European Championship twice (2008 and 2012) and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Veteran former Spain defender Sergio Ramos on Monday returned to his home-town club Sevilla after 18 years away. "It's a very special day, returning home is always a tremendous joy," Ramos told the media.

Veteran former Spain defender Sergio Ramos on Monday returned to his home-town club Sevilla after 18 years away. "It's a very special day, returning home is always a tremendous joy," Ramos told the media. The 37-year-old former Real Madrid and Paris Saint-Germain player signed a one-year contract after passing the traditional medical, the club announced. Also Read: Carlos Alcaraz enters quarter finals, Ons Jabeur crashes out in US Open "Happy to return and try to contribute as soon as possible which is the important thing," the player added. Sevilla sit bottom of La Liga without a point after three matches but as Europa League champions have qualified for the Champions League group stage. They start their campaign on September 20. Ramos left Sevilla at the age of 19 to join Real Madrid for a then record fee for a Spanish defender. In 2021, Ramos signed for PSG but had been without a club since his contract with the French champions ran out in June. According to the local press, Ramos turned down a lucrative offer from Al Ittihad in Saudi Arabia. "I was eager to return home. It made no sense to go anywhere else without passing through here," said Ramos who was born on the outskirts of Seville. In 16 seasons at the Bernabeu, Ramos won La Liga five times and the Champions League four times. He played 180 games for Spain, scoring 23 goals, and was part of the team that won the European Championship twice (2008 and 2012) and the 2010 World Cup in South Africa. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Football: Former Spain defender Sergio Ramos returns to home-town club Sevilla after 18 years

Dani Carvajal chipped home a Panenka penalty to win Spain the Nations League on Sunday, with a 5-4 shoot-out victory over Croatia, after a tense match finished 0-0 following extra-time.

Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon denied Lovro Mayer and Bruno Petkovic from the spot, before Carvajal cheekily chipped home to earn La Roja their first trophy since Euro 2012 and break Croatian hearts.

Zlatko Dalic's side, runners-up at the World Cup in 2018 and third in 2022, have never won a major trophy and were hoping Nations League success would cap a glittering international career for captain Luka Modric, who played his 166th international game.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/golf-wyndham-clark-wins-first-major-title-with-us-open-victory-605865">Wyndham Clark wins first major title with US Open victory</a>

The victory is a confidence boost for new Spain coach Luis de la Fuente after heavy criticism in March after a defeat by Scotland in Euro 2024 qualifying. It also avenged their 2021 final defeat by France.

"For us it was a unique opportunity, we went out early in another tournament (at the World Cup in Qatar) and today we had to take advantage," Real Madrid defender Carvajal told Spanish broadcaster TVE.

"We had confidence with the penalties and it went well, I knew how I was going to shoot it, and I knew I was going to be sixth... I wanted to take it Panenka style and it went well."

Dalic warned that over 25,000 Croatian fans were expected to travel to Rotterdam and they filled the majority of the stadium, De Kuip a sea of red and white checkered squares, save for a modest area of Spanish fans.

The Croatians chanted Modric's name in the 10th minute, matching his shirt number, a plea for him not to retire from international duty after the tournament, as had been rumoured.

On the pitch Spain made the early running, with Gavi drilling narrowly wide after pressing furiously to win the ball back.

Just when the game started to fall into a slight lull, under the pink haze of smoke from Croatian flares, Spain were nearly caught out by Josip Juranovic's long ball over the top for Andrej Kramaric.

The striker ran through on Unai Simon's goal but just as he pulled the trigger, Aymeric Laporte made a superb lunging block.

Despite 14 goals in the three preceeding games, the first half finished goalless, just as in the prior two Nations League finals, won by Portugal and France in 2019 and 2021 respectively.

<h2>Tight and tense</h2>

La Roja were unable to muster a shot on target in the first 80 minutes of an extremely tense battle.

Mario Pasalic headed wide before being replaced by Petkovic, who was Croatia's semi-final star against the Netherlands -- to the extent one Croatian newspaper described him as "Bruce Willis in football boots". It did not prove the case this time.

Spain sent on their own semi-final match-winner in response, with Joselu replacing Morata, while Ansu Fati also entered the fray.

It was the young Barcelona forward who came closest to scoring in the 90 minutes for either side, with his low strike cleared off the line by the diligent Ivan Perisic.

Croatia appealed in vain for a penalty after Nacho tangled with Borna Sosa, and Spain substitute Dani Olmo, who spent six years with Dinamo Zagreb, hammered over as extra-time continued in the same tight pattern.

With the sides inseparable, the match was decided on penalties.

After Simon denied Mayer, Aymeric Laporte had the chance to earn victory but hit the bar.

Athletic Bilbao stopper Simon flung himself to his right at full stretch to save from Petkovic and set the scene for Carvajal to spark Spanish celebrations.

They became the second country to have won the World Cup, Euros and Nations League, after France in 2021.

"We're so happy, it was a really tough game and this is so difficult to do," said Manchester City's Champions League final goalscorer Rodri, man of the match.

"This generation promises a lot. We were very strong mentally. There are things to improve, but winning is always good -- we have to celebrate."

Croatia were left with the taste of disappointment yet again, but Dalic said another podium finish was a positive sign.

"We've won medals, one after another, that's great -- three medals is history, a really great thing to have achieved," said Dalic.

"This shows that there is still lots of potential, we can do a lot."

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Dani Carvajal chipped home a Panenka penalty to win Spain the Nations League on Sunday, with a 5-4 shoot-out victory over Croatia, after a tense match finished 0-0 following extra-time.

Dani Carvajal chipped home a Panenka penalty to win Spain the Nations League on Sunday, with a 5-4 shoot-out victory over Croatia, after a tense match finished 0-0 following extra-time. Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon denied Lovro Mayer and Bruno Petkovic from the spot, before Carvajal cheekily chipped home to earn La Roja their first trophy since Euro 2012 and break Croatian hearts. Zlatko Dalic's side, runners-up at the World Cup in 2018 and third in 2022, have never won a major trophy and were hoping Nations League success would cap a glittering international career for captain Luka Modric, who played his 166th international game. Also Read: Wyndham Clark wins first major title with US Open victory The victory is a confidence boost for new Spain coach Luis de la Fuente after heavy criticism in March after a defeat by Scotland in Euro 2024 qualifying. It also avenged their 2021 final defeat by France. "For us it was a unique opportunity, we went out early in another tournament (at the World Cup in Qatar) and today we had to take advantage," Real Madrid defender Carvajal told Spanish broadcaster TVE. "We had confidence with the penalties and it went well, I knew how I was going to shoot it, and I knew I was going to be sixth... I wanted to take it Panenka style and it went well." Dalic warned that over 25,000 Croatian fans were expected to travel to Rotterdam and they filled the majority of the stadium, De Kuip a sea of red and white checkered squares, save for a modest area of Spanish fans. The Croatians chanted Modric's name in the 10th minute, matching his shirt number, a plea for him not to retire from international duty after the tournament, as had been rumoured. On the pitch Spain made the early running, with Gavi drilling narrowly wide after pressing furiously to win the ball back. Just when the game started to fall into a slight lull, under the pink haze of smoke from Croatian flares, Spain were nearly caught out by Josip Juranovic's long ball over the top for Andrej Kramaric. The striker ran through on Unai Simon's goal but just as he pulled the trigger, Aymeric Laporte made a superb lunging block. Despite 14 goals in the three preceeding games, the first half finished goalless, just as in the prior two Nations League finals, won by Portugal and France in 2019 and 2021 respectively. Tight and tense La Roja were unable to muster a shot on target in the first 80 minutes of an extremely tense battle. Mario Pasalic headed wide before being replaced by Petkovic, who was Croatia's semi-final star against the Netherlands -- to the extent one Croatian newspaper described him as "Bruce Willis in football boots". It did not prove the case this time. Spain sent on their own semi-final match-winner in response, with Joselu replacing Morata, while Ansu Fati also entered the fray. It was the young Barcelona forward who came closest to scoring in the 90 minutes for either side, with his low strike cleared off the line by the diligent Ivan Perisic. Croatia appealed in vain for a penalty after Nacho tangled with Borna Sosa, and Spain substitute Dani Olmo, who spent six years with Dinamo Zagreb, hammered over as extra-time continued in the same tight pattern. With the sides inseparable, the match was decided on penalties. After Simon denied Mayer, Aymeric Laporte had the chance to earn victory but hit the bar. Athletic Bilbao stopper Simon flung himself to his right at full stretch to save from Petkovic and set the scene for Carvajal to spark Spanish celebrations. They became the second country to have won the World Cup, Euros and Nations League, after France in 2021. "We're so happy, it was a really tough game and this is so difficult to do," said Manchester City's Champions League final goalscorer Rodri, man of the match. "This generation promises a lot. We were very strong mentally. There are things to improve, but winning is always good -- we have to celebrate." Croatia were left with the taste of disappointment yet again, but Dalic said another podium finish was a positive sign. "We've won medals, one after another, that's great -- three medals is history, a really great thing to have achieved," said Dalic. "This shows that there is still lots of potential, we can do a lot." WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Nations League: Spain beat Croatia on penalties to clinch title

Scott McTominay scored twice as Scotland claimed a famous 2-0 victory over Spain at Hampden Park in Euro 2024 qualifying on Tuesday, while Croatia won in Turkey.

Steve Clarke's Scotland won their opening match in Group A 3-0 against Cyprus on Saturday but usurped that result with a stunning performance against three-time European champions Spain.

It was their first victory over Spain since 1984 and probably their best result since beating France in 2007.

Also Read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/lionel-messi-scores-100th-international-goal-in-7-0-rout-of-curacao-576813">Lionel Messi scores 100th international goal in 7-0 rout of Curacao</a>

"The manager said before getting on the bus for the stadium: 'This is your chance to create a legacy as a Scotland player'," said McTominay.

"These are the sort of nights in 20-30 years you remember as a player. When you watch back the game you say I was there. It's what the game is about."

Manchester United midfielder McTominay gave the hosts a dream start by slotting home Andrew Robertson's cutback in the seventh minute.

Ryan Christie went close to a second before Joselu, who scored twice on his debut against Norway at the weekend, hit the crossbar for Spain.

Lyndon Dykes missed a golden chance to double the Scots' advantage in first-half added time, but dinked the ball over the bar after racing through on goal.

McTominay made no such mistake six minutes after the restart, though, drilling home a fine left-footed volley after excellent work from Kieran Tierney.

Spain piled on late pressure but failed to create many clear-cut chances as Scotland held on to the delight of a raucous crowd in Glasgow.

The loss is a serious early setback for new Spain coach Luis de la Fuente who took over from Luis Enrique following a World Cup last-16 exit to Morocco.

"It's clear that the two chances they had they put away and we tried, we hit the woodwork twice, we had a lot of chances, above all in the first half," Spain midfielder Rodri told Teledeporte.

"We have to improve these lapses, and these things that cost us against these teams."

Scotland are top of a difficult Group A that also includes Erling Haaland's Norway and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's Georgia.

The Georgians played out a 1-1 draw with Norway in the other Group A game in Batumi.

The Scandinavians took the lead through Alexander Sorloth, playing in place of the injured Haaland, in the 15th minute.

But Metz forward Georges Mikautadze equalised on the hour mark to ensure Georgia did not start their bid to qualify for a first major tournament with a defeat.

"It would have been worse if we had stood here and not created chances.&nbsp;We had some incredible chances today. That's life," said Norway coach Stale Solbakken.

<h2>Croatia beat Turkey</h2>

World Cup semi-finalists Croatia eased to an impressive 2-0 win in Turkey to kickstart their Group D campaign after an opening draw with Wales.

Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic netted a first-half double with both goals coming from Mario Pasalic assists.

Croatia are level on four points with Wales after Rob Page's side beat Latvia 1-0 for their first win since the retirement of Gareth Bale.

Striker Kieffer Moore headed home the winning goal for a dominant Wales in the 41st minute.

Switzerland made it two wins from two games in Group I with a comfortable 3-0 success against Israel.

Goals from Ruben Vargas, Zeki Amdouni and Silvan Widmer helped the Swiss follow up a 5-0 thrashing of Belarus in style.

Romania also boast a 100 percent record in the group after edging out Belarus 2-1, while Kosovo have two points from as many matches after a 1-1 draw with Andorra.

WATCH WION LIVE HERE

<iframe allow="accelerometer; autoplay; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="350" loading="”lazy”" src="https://www.wionews.com/live-tv/embed?autoplay=1&amp;mute=1" width="100%"></iframe>

You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us <a href="https://www.wionews.com/content-contribution-registration-form">here</a>.

Scott McTominay scored twice as Scotland claimed a famous 2-0 victory over Spain at Hampden Park in Euro 2024 qualifying on Tuesday, while Croatia won in Turkey.

Scott McTominay scored twice as Scotland claimed a famous 2-0 victory over Spain at Hampden Park in Euro 2024 qualifying on Tuesday, while Croatia won in Turkey. Steve Clarke's Scotland won their opening match in Group A 3-0 against Cyprus on Saturday but usurped that result with a stunning performance against three-time European champions Spain. It was their first victory over Spain since 1984 and probably their best result since beating France in 2007. Also Read: Lionel Messi scores 100th international goal in 7-0 rout of Curacao "The manager said before getting on the bus for the stadium: 'This is your chance to create a legacy as a Scotland player'," said McTominay. "These are the sort of nights in 20-30 years you remember as a player. When you watch back the game you say I was there. It's what the game is about." Manchester United midfielder McTominay gave the hosts a dream start by slotting home Andrew Robertson's cutback in the seventh minute. Ryan Christie went close to a second before Joselu, who scored twice on his debut against Norway at the weekend, hit the crossbar for Spain. Lyndon Dykes missed a golden chance to double the Scots' advantage in first-half added time, but dinked the ball over the bar after racing through on goal. McTominay made no such mistake six minutes after the restart, though, drilling home a fine left-footed volley after excellent work from Kieran Tierney. Spain piled on late pressure but failed to create many clear-cut chances as Scotland held on to the delight of a raucous crowd in Glasgow. The loss is a serious early setback for new Spain coach Luis de la Fuente who took over from Luis Enrique following a World Cup last-16 exit to Morocco. "It's clear that the two chances they had they put away and we tried, we hit the woodwork twice, we had a lot of chances, above all in the first half," Spain midfielder Rodri told Teledeporte. "We have to improve these lapses, and these things that cost us against these teams." Scotland are top of a difficult Group A that also includes Erling Haaland's Norway and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia's Georgia. The Georgians played out a 1-1 draw with Norway in the other Group A game in Batumi. The Scandinavians took the lead through Alexander Sorloth, playing in place of the injured Haaland, in the 15th minute. But Metz forward Georges Mikautadze equalised on the hour mark to ensure Georgia did not start their bid to qualify for a first major tournament with a defeat. "It would have been worse if we had stood here and not created chances. We had some incredible chances today. That's life," said Norway coach Stale Solbakken. Croatia beat Turkey World Cup semi-finalists Croatia eased to an impressive 2-0 win in Turkey to kickstart their Group D campaign after an opening draw with Wales. Chelsea midfielder Mateo Kovacic netted a first-half double with both goals coming from Mario Pasalic assists. Croatia are level on four points with Wales after Rob Page's side beat Latvia 1-0 for their first win since the retirement of Gareth Bale. Striker Kieffer Moore headed home the winning goal for a dominant Wales in the 41st minute. Switzerland made it two wins from two games in Group I with a comfortable 3-0 success against Israel. Goals from Ruben Vargas, Zeki Amdouni and Silvan Widmer helped the Swiss follow up a 5-0 thrashing of Belarus in style. Romania also boast a 100 percent record in the group after edging out Belarus 2-1, while Kosovo have two points from as many matches after a 1-1 draw with Andorra. WATCH WION LIVE HERE You can now write for wionews.com and be a part of the community. Share your stories and opinions with us here.

Euro 2024 Qualifier round-up: Scotland get famous win against Spain, Croatia down Turkey

Luis&nbsp;Enrique&nbsp;was sacked as Spain coach on Thursday after the team's elimination in the last-16 at the World Cup with the country's under-21 manager&nbsp;Luis&nbsp;de la Fuente named as his replacement by the Spanish football federation (RFEF). Spain were beaten on penalties by Morocco after a goalless draw on Tuesday in an upset result after failing to turn their dominance into a victory.

"The RFEF has chosen&nbsp;Luis&nbsp;de la Fuente as the new (Spain) coach," RFEF said in a statement. "The ... RFEF has delivered to the president a report in which it determined that a new project should start for the Spain national team, with the aim of continuing the growth achieved in recent years thanks to the work carried out by&nbsp;Luis&nbsp;Enrique&nbsp;(and the staff). "Both the RFEF president&nbsp;Luis&nbsp;Rubiales and sports director, Jose Francisco Molina have informed&nbsp;Luis&nbsp;Enrique&nbsp;of the decision. The RFEF would like to thank&nbsp;Luis&nbsp;Enrique&nbsp;and his entire coaching staff for the work done in the last few years."

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/watch-an-unlikely-intruder-interrupts-vinicius-jr-during-brazils-presser-ahead-of-croatia-quarterfinal-541259">WATCH: An unlikely intruder interrupts Vinicius Jr during Brazil’s presser ahead of Croatia quarterfinal</a>

The 52-year-old said after the Morocco match that he was to blame for the defeat.&nbsp;Luis&nbsp;Enrique, who was first appointed Spain coach in 2018, had a contract until the end of the year. He is the fourth manager to get sacked after their teams were eliminated at the World Cup in Qatar. De la Fuente, 61, joined the RFEF in 2013 as the under-15 manager having worked with players like Marco Asensio, goalkeeper Unai Simon, Eric Garcia, Pau Torres, Pedri, Carlos Soler and Dani Olmo when they were youngsters.

Luis Enrique was sacked as Spain coach on Thursday after the team's elimination in the last-16 at the World Cup with the country's under-21 manager Luis de la Fuente named as his replacement by the Spanish football federation (RFEF).

Luis Enrique was sacked as Spain coach on Thursday after the team's elimination in the last-16 at the World Cup with the country's under-21 manager Luis de la Fuente named as his replacement by the Spanish football federation (RFEF). Spain were beaten on penalties by Morocco after a goalless draw on Tuesday in an upset result after failing to turn their dominance into a victory. "The RFEF has chosen Luis de la Fuente as the new (Spain) coach," RFEF said in a statement. "The ... RFEF has delivered to the president a report in which it determined that a new project should start for the Spain national team, with the aim of continuing the growth achieved in recent years thanks to the work carried out by Luis Enrique (and the staff). "Both the RFEF president Luis Rubiales and sports director, Jose Francisco Molina have informed Luis Enrique of the decision. The RFEF would like to thank Luis Enrique and his entire coaching staff for the work done in the last few years." Also read: WATCH: An unlikely intruder interrupts Vinicius Jr during Brazil’s presser ahead of Croatia quarterfinal The 52-year-old said after the Morocco match that he was to blame for the defeat. Luis Enrique, who was first appointed Spain coach in 2018, had a contract until the end of the year. He is the fourth manager to get sacked after their teams were eliminated at the World Cup in Qatar. De la Fuente, 61, joined the RFEF in 2013 as the under-15 manager having worked with players like Marco Asensio, goalkeeper Unai Simon, Eric Garcia, Pau Torres, Pedri, Carlos Soler and Dani Olmo when they were youngsters.

Spain coach Luis Enrique fired after FIFA World Cup debacle, Luis de la Fuente takes over

On Sunday (October 09), former Real Madrid and Spain's legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas broke the internet by coming out as gay on his Twitter account. The 41-year-old&nbsp;made a public announcement on Twitter saying, "I hope you respect me: I'm gay."

In the recent past, many sporting celebrities have come out in the open and admitted their sexual preferences. While Casillas' revelation might have shocked many, a few hours later the post was taken down.

Before the tweet was deleted, Casillas' Spain teammate and Barcelona legend Carles Puyol also backed the former and wrote on Twitter, "It's time to tell our stories, Iker".&nbsp;However, this tweet was also nowhere to be seen after some time.

Later, Casillas clarified that his Twitter account was hacked and the tweet was completely a mistake. In addition, he&nbsp;apologized to the LGBTQ community for hurting their sentiments. He wrote, "Hacked account. Luckily everything in order. Apologies to all my followers. And of course, more apologies to the LGBT community."

<img alt="Iker Casillas tweets he is NOT gay" data-entity-type="file" data-entity-uuid="d573eeef-1369-4f14-9a5f-c4c74889880e" src="//cdn.wionews.com/sites/default/files/inline-images/Iker%20Casillas%20tweets%20he%20is%20NOT%20gay.jpg" />

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/700-goals-cristiano-ronaldo-achieves-huge-landmark-to-lead-manchester-united-to-win-at-everton-523896">700 goals! Cristiano Ronaldo achieves huge landmark to lead Manchester United to win at Everton</a>

It is to be noted that&nbsp;Casillas tied the knot with&nbsp;Spanish sports presenter Sara Carbonero and the couple were married for&nbsp;five years, having two children together. They called the marriage off in early 2021.&nbsp;Since then, the Spanish legend has been linked with different women at regular intervals. Some reports have even suggested that Casillas' post was a sarcastic reply to all the links up post his divorce.&nbsp;

On Sunday (October 09), former Real Madrid and Spain's legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas broke the internet by coming out as gay on his Twitter account. The 41-year-old made a public announcement on Twitter saying, "I hope you respect me: I'm gay.

On Sunday (October 09), former Real Madrid and Spain's legendary goalkeeper Iker Casillas broke the internet by coming out as gay on his Twitter account. The 41-year-old made a public announcement on Twitter saying, "I hope you respect me: I'm gay." In the recent past, many sporting celebrities have come out in the open and admitted their sexual preferences. While Casillas' revelation might have shocked many, a few hours later the post was taken down. Before the tweet was deleted, Casillas' Spain teammate and Barcelona legend Carles Puyol also backed the former and wrote on Twitter, "It's time to tell our stories, Iker". However, this tweet was also nowhere to be seen after some time. Later, Casillas clarified that his Twitter account was hacked and the tweet was completely a mistake. In addition, he apologized to the LGBTQ community for hurting their sentiments. He wrote, "Hacked account. Luckily everything in order. Apologies to all my followers. And of course, more apologies to the LGBT community." ALSO READ | 700 goals! Cristiano Ronaldo achieves huge landmark to lead Manchester United to win at Everton It is to be noted that Casillas tied the knot with Spanish sports presenter Sara Carbonero and the couple were married for five years, having two children together. They called the marriage off in early 2021. Since then, the Spanish legend has been linked with different women at regular intervals. Some reports have even suggested that Casillas' post was a sarcastic reply to all the links up post his divorce.

Spaniard Iker Casillas comes out as gay, later deletes tweet claiming his account was hacked

Fifteen players have quit the&nbsp;Spanish&nbsp;women's national team in an "unprecedented" mass resignation, the&nbsp;Spanish&nbsp;football federation (RFEF) announced late Thursday, coming after weeks of speculations of divisions in the camp.

Spanish&nbsp;media has recently reported that part of the women's national team wanted coach Jorge Vilda to be sacked.&nbsp;The RFEF on Thursday published a statement saying that 15 players had sent them the same email of resignation.&nbsp;"They state the current situation generated affects them 'significantly' in their 'emotional state' and their 'health' and that 'as long as it is not reversed', they are resigning from the national team of Spain," the federation announced.

Condemning the players for questioning "the continuity of the national coach", RFEF said they will not "call up players who do not want to wear the Spain shirt".&nbsp; 
 
"The Federation will only use committed players, even if it means playing with youth players.&nbsp; It is an unprecedented situation in the history of soccer, both men's and women's, in Spain and worldwide," it said.

ALSO READ |&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/pitch-invading-fans-face-from-premier-league-encounters-policy-comes-into-effect-immediately-518791">Pitch-invading fans face ban from Premier League encounters, policy comes into effect immediately</a>

A&nbsp;Spanish&nbsp;radio station COPE reported that current Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, out injured for the season, was not among the players who resigned.&nbsp;But her Barcelona teammates Patri Guijarro, Mapi Leon, Sandra Panos, Aitana Bonmati, Claudia Pina and Mariona Caldentey were in the group.

Manchester United's Ona Batlle and Lucia Garcia and Manchester City's Leila Ouahabi and Laia Aleixandri were also reported to be among those who have resigned. Earlier this month, the&nbsp;Spanish&nbsp;women's league season was delayed by a week after a refereeing strike caused the postponement of the first round of fixtures.

Fifteen players have quit the Spanish women's national team in an "unprecedented" mass resignation, the Spanish football federation (RFEF) announced late Thursday, coming after weeks of speculations of divisions in the camp.

Fifteen players have quit the Spanish women's national team in an "unprecedented" mass resignation, the Spanish football federation (RFEF) announced late Thursday, coming after weeks of speculations of divisions in the camp. Spanish media has recently reported that part of the women's national team wanted coach Jorge Vilda to be sacked. The RFEF on Thursday published a statement saying that 15 players had sent them the same email of resignation. "They state the current situation generated affects them 'significantly' in their 'emotional state' and their 'health' and that 'as long as it is not reversed', they are resigning from the national team of Spain," the federation announced. Condemning the players for questioning "the continuity of the national coach", RFEF said they will not "call up players who do not want to wear the Spain shirt". "The Federation will only use committed players, even if it means playing with youth players. It is an unprecedented situation in the history of soccer, both men's and women's, in Spain and worldwide," it said. ALSO READ | Pitch-invading fans face ban from Premier League encounters, policy comes into effect immediately A Spanish radio station COPE reported that current Ballon d’Or winner Alexia Putellas, out injured for the season, was not among the players who resigned. But her Barcelona teammates Patri Guijarro, Mapi Leon, Sandra Panos, Aitana Bonmati, Claudia Pina and Mariona Caldentey were in the group. Manchester United's Ona Batlle and Lucia Garcia and Manchester City's Leila Ouahabi and Laia Aleixandri were also reported to be among those who have resigned. Earlier this month, the Spanish women's league season was delayed by a week after a refereeing strike caused the postponement of the first round of fixtures.

Spain women's national football team in spot of bother following resignation of 15 players

Spain coach Luis Enrique said he is not worried about his side's chances of reaching the knockout stages of Euro 2020 following a 1-1 draw with Poland on Saturday, and backed the team to get the job done with a win over Slovakia in their final Group E game.

Alvaro Morata put Spain ahead in the 25th minute but Poland equalised through Robert Lewandowski. Luis Enrique's side were awarded a penalty soon after but Gerard Moreno hit the post.

It was another frustrating night for Spain, who drew their opener against Sweden 0-0, but Luis Enrique said he would only take the positives into Wednesday's clash with Slovakia.

"I feel a lot of hope heading into that game," Luis Enrique told reporters. "We obviously wanted to play better and give our fans something to cheer about... It was a tough game against a good opponent.

"You have to recognise how good Poland were and the great defensive work they did. They closed down a lot of the avenues we usually use to get forward, stopped our transitions and pressed high up the pitch all game.

"... The third game will be crucial, we need to win it if we want to get through to the next round. All four teams in this group have their future in their own hands."

Luis Enrique acknowledged that Spain often struggle against defensive teams.

"Anyone that watches football can see that attacking against a team camped in their own penalty box is the hardest thing to do," the 51-year-old said.

"I don't think it was that kind of game (against Poland). There were moments where they held back, but they looked to press us whenever we had the ball.

"Of course it's something we struggle with. But it's something France struggle with, Barcelona, Brazil, Manchester City, Real Madrid... any team that hangs back in numbers is going to cause problems to any team looking to attack."

Spain coach Luis Enrique said he is not worried about his side's chances of reaching the knockout stages of Euro 2020 following a 1-1 draw with Poland on Saturday, and backed the team to get the job done with a win over Slovakia in their final Group E game.

Spain coach Luis Enrique said he is not worried about his side's chances of reaching the knockout stages of Euro 2020 following a 1-1 draw with Poland on Saturday, and backed the team to get the job done with a win over Slovakia in their final Group E game. Alvaro Morata put Spain ahead in the 25th minute but Poland equalised through Robert Lewandowski. Luis Enrique's side were awarded a penalty soon after but Gerard Moreno hit the post. It was another frustrating night for Spain, who drew their opener against Sweden 0-0, but Luis Enrique said he would only take the positives into Wednesday's clash with Slovakia. "I feel a lot of hope heading into that game," Luis Enrique told reporters. "We obviously wanted to play better and give our fans something to cheer about... It was a tough game against a good opponent. "You have to recognise how good Poland were and the great defensive work they did. They closed down a lot of the avenues we usually use to get forward, stopped our transitions and pressed high up the pitch all game. "... The third game will be crucial, we need to win it if we want to get through to the next round. All four teams in this group have their future in their own hands." Luis Enrique acknowledged that Spain often struggle against defensive teams. "Anyone that watches football can see that attacking against a team camped in their own penalty box is the hardest thing to do," the 51-year-old said. "I don't think it was that kind of game (against Poland). There were moments where they held back, but they looked to press us whenever we had the ball. "Of course it's something we struggle with. But it's something France struggle with, Barcelona, Brazil, Manchester City, Real Madrid... any team that hangs back in numbers is going to cause problems to any team looking to attack."

Football: Luis Enrique not worried about Spain's chances despite Poland draw

spain-football

Spain Football, News on Spain Football, stories on Spain Football, articles on Spain Football, Spain Football stories at Wion, Spain Football news, Spain Football latest news

spain football