It's snowing in Madrid after almost a decade. In Spain, it is said that a snowy year is a prosperous year. The snow has brought a much-needed cheer for the Spaniards.

Gravitas: Madrid receives snowfall after a decade

Light snow already blanketed Madrid on Thursday, a day after Spain registered the lowest temperature ever recorded on the Iberian peninsula

Freezing Madrid braces for rare and heaviest snowfall in years

Spain became the fourth Western European country to pass 2 million cumulative COVID-19 cases, health ministry data showed on Thursday (January 7), while the rate of infection continued to climb.

Spain hits 2 million COVID-19 cases as infection rate rises

The Three Wise Men arrived in Madrid on Tuesday (January 5) at a show with no audience on a year without traditional street parades on the eve of the Epiphany.

No audience to receive the Three Kings in Madrid due to COVID-19

Gibraltarians breathed a sigh of relief and caution after London and Madrid reached a consensus on Friday to let the territory become part of Europe's passport-free zone.&nbsp;

About 15,000 people, largely Spanish, pour into Gibraltar, a tiny British territory, for work every day, and around half of these people come from Spain.&nbsp;

Several tourists from Spain also visit Gibraltar on a daily basis because of its duty-free shopping.&nbsp;

Also read | <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/operation-gibraltar-the-day-when-pakistan-infiltrated-deep-within-india-through-haji-pir-pass-323788">Operation Gibraltar: The day when Pakistan infiltrated deep within India through Haji Pir pass</a>

Because of its small size, all food in Gibraltar is imported. About 50,000 trucks cross the Gibraltar border each year via the only road that connects the territory to Spain.&nbsp;

Watch |&nbsp;

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spain-uk-discusses-border-policing-on-gibraltar-353337/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

If the deal between Spain and the UK has not been reached, it would have led to a "hard border" between Gibraltar and the European Union once the Brexit transition period ended.&nbsp;

"It's good news, it seems like the best way to keep everything moving," Oliver Gomez, a 34-year-old actuary, who walked along with his dog in Gibraltar was quoted as saying by news agency AFP.&nbsp;

The deal that was finalised at the eleventh hour meant that the small territory would be included in the Schengen passport-free zone that covers 26 European nations.&nbsp;

However, some people expressed concern about whether Spain will be able to manage the deal.&nbsp;

"We haven't always had the best track record with the Spanish. Let's see how it goes," said Jeff Saez, a 43-year-old hotel worker.&nbsp;

However, Mark Leavesley, a 34-year-old Gibraltar real estate agent, was hopeful that the territory would adapt well even if there was not a border deal.&nbsp;

"Gibraltar has proven to be resilient," said Leavesley.

A wave of relief was also felt in La Linea, a poor Spanish city just across the border from Gibraltar as it was dependant on the territory for years for business and jobs.&nbsp;

Nuria Hernanez, the owner of a hardware store in La Linea, says about 40 per cent of the customers arrive from Gibraltar.

"Without them there would be nothing here," said Hernanez.&nbsp;

Gibraltarians breathed a sigh of relief and caution after London and Madrid reached a consensus on Friday to let the territory become part of Europe's passport-free zone.

Gibraltarians breathed a sigh of relief and caution after London and Madrid reached a consensus on Friday to let the territory become part of Europe's passport-free zone. About 15,000 people, largely Spanish, pour into Gibraltar, a tiny British territory, for work every day, and around half of these people come from Spain. Several tourists from Spain also visit Gibraltar on a daily basis because of its duty-free shopping. Also read | Operation Gibraltar: The day when Pakistan infiltrated deep within India through Haji Pir pass Because of its small size, all food in Gibraltar is imported. About 50,000 trucks cross the Gibraltar border each year via the only road that connects the territory to Spain. Watch | If the deal between Spain and the UK has not been reached, it would have led to a "hard border" between Gibraltar and the European Union once the Brexit transition period ended. "It's good news, it seems like the best way to keep everything moving," Oliver Gomez, a 34-year-old actuary, who walked along with his dog in Gibraltar was quoted as saying by news agency AFP. The deal that was finalised at the eleventh hour meant that the small territory would be included in the Schengen passport-free zone that covers 26 European nations. However, some people expressed concern about whether Spain will be able to manage the deal. "We haven't always had the best track record with the Spanish. Let's see how it goes," said Jeff Saez, a 43-year-old hotel worker. However, Mark Leavesley, a 34-year-old Gibraltar real estate agent, was hopeful that the territory would adapt well even if there was not a border deal. "Gibraltar has proven to be resilient," said Leavesley. A wave of relief was also felt in La Linea, a poor Spanish city just across the border from Gibraltar as it was dependant on the territory for years for business and jobs. Nuria Hernanez, the owner of a hardware store in La Linea, says about 40 per cent of the customers arrive from Gibraltar. "Without them there would be nothing here," said Hernanez.

Big relief and some caution for Gibraltarians after UK-Spain deal

A court in China sentenced 29 people from Taiwan who had been deported from Spain to up to 14 years in jail on Thursday. They were charged with telecoms fraud, state media said.

In recent years, hundreds of Taiwanese suspected of telecom fraud have been deported to China, sometimes forcibly, from countries including Kenya, Cambodia and Armenia, according to the Taiwan government. China has defended the deportations.

In the latest judgement, the court in Beijing ruled that the suspects had defrauded people living in China by calling them from their base in Spain and claiming to be Chinese law enforcement officials. A total of 14 victims were defrauded out of more than 6.17 million yuan ($941,985).

China claims democratically and separately governed Taiwan as its own territory, with no right to be treated as a country.

The deportations have arisen from the "one-China" policy of most countries under which they maintain formal relations only with the People's Republic of China rather than Taiwan, with governments deciding to send them to China for trial.

Taiwan has complained about a lack of due process and expressed concern about mistreatment of its people in Chinese jails.

Chinese authorities have sought to contain an explosion of telecom crime it says has led to huge financial losses, with callers often impersonating officials or authority figures and preying on the elderly, students or the unemployed.

A court in China sentenced 29 people from Taiwan who had been deported from Spain to up to 14 years in jail on Thursday. They were charged with telecoms fraud, state media said.

A court in China sentenced 29 people from Taiwan who had been deported from Spain to up to 14 years in jail on Thursday. They were charged with telecoms fraud, state media said. In recent years, hundreds of Taiwanese suspected of telecom fraud have been deported to China, sometimes forcibly, from countries including Kenya, Cambodia and Armenia, according to the Taiwan government. China has defended the deportations. In the latest judgement, the court in Beijing ruled that the suspects had defrauded people living in China by calling them from their base in Spain and claiming to be Chinese law enforcement officials. A total of 14 victims were defrauded out of more than 6.17 million yuan ($941,985). China claims democratically and separately governed Taiwan as its own territory, with no right to be treated as a country. The deportations have arisen from the "one-China" policy of most countries under which they maintain formal relations only with the People's Republic of China rather than Taiwan, with governments deciding to send them to China for trial. Taiwan has complained about a lack of due process and expressed concern about mistreatment of its people in Chinese jails. Chinese authorities have sought to contain an explosion of telecom crime it says has led to huge financial losses, with callers often impersonating officials or authority figures and preying on the elderly, students or the unemployed.

China jails 29 Taiwanese deported from Spain for fraud

The United Kingdom and the european union sealed a crucial trade deal it covers most aspects of post-brexit for United Kingdom. Though there is one sticking point still remains, that it's a small slice of land located on the tip of Iberian Peninsula Called Gibraltar, Watch this report to know more.

Spain & U.K. Discusses Border Policing on Gibraltar

However, even without a deal, there will be provisions in place for those who work on one side of the border and live on the other.

Your Story: Spain to allow free movement for Gibraltar workers after Brexit

Spanish police have found Nazi&nbsp;memorabilia in a warehouse while they were making arrests of three suspected leaders of an international arms ring after it was reported the three were involved in selling guns to drug traffickers.

The&nbsp;Civil Guard force reported on Tuesday that the raid was conducted after a year-long investigation into an increasing gun ring and trafficking. The police raided three locations from where they recovered nearly 160 firearms, 10,000 bullets and almost 1.5 kg of explosives.

While making the raid, the police also found several Nazi artefacts such as portraits of the infamous Adolf Hitler, German military uniforms and several medals too. All the items were displayed in a way as if they were being showcased in a museum.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-tackles-right-wing-terror-probe-to-target-islamists-neo-nazis-348745">WATCH|</a>

<div class="ui-state-default" contenteditable="false">
<div class="twitter-block" draggable="false">
<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/australia-tackles-right-wing-terror-probe-to-target-islamists-neo-nazis-348745/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>
</div>
<a class="close-mark close-div" href="#" id="jqclosemark">×</a></div>

Following the raids, two arrests of German men were made who have been charged with arms trafficking, drugs trafficking and also fasifying official documents. One of the accused has also been out in question due to his close ties with far-rights groups.

According to police, the gang acquired weapons from Eastern Europe before modifying them in their workshop in Malaga and selling them on to drug runners.

Spanish police have found Nazi memorabilia in a warehouse while they were making arrests of three suspected leaders of an international arms ring after it was reported the three were involved in selling guns to drug traffickers.

Spanish police have found Nazi memorabilia in a warehouse while they were making arrests of three suspected leaders of an international arms ring after it was reported the three were involved in selling guns to drug traffickers. The Civil Guard force reported on Tuesday that the raid was conducted after a year-long investigation into an increasing gun ring and trafficking. The police raided three locations from where they recovered nearly 160 firearms, 10,000 bullets and almost 1.5 kg of explosives. While making the raid, the police also found several Nazi artefacts such as portraits of the infamous Adolf Hitler, German military uniforms and several medals too. All the items were displayed in a way as if they were being showcased in a museum. WATCH| × Following the raids, two arrests of German men were made who have been charged with arms trafficking, drugs trafficking and also fasifying official documents. One of the accused has also been out in question due to his close ties with far-rights groups. According to police, the gang acquired weapons from Eastern Europe before modifying them in their workshop in Malaga and selling them on to drug runners.

Several Nazi memorabilia found in Spanish warehouse of arms traffickers

As Spain begins its mass vaccination, the country decides that it will set up a registry of people who refuse to get vaccinated. Spanish health minister Salvador Illa said that the country will not make the data public and the health minister said that they will share the data with other European Union Nations as well.

Spain to register the data of the citizens who refuse to get vaccine

Spain's coalition government is deeply split over a proposal to shorten the work week to four days to fight high unemployment sparked by the coronavirus pandemic.

The measure is being pushed by far-left party Podemos, the junior partner in Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's minority government which has ruled the eurozone's fourth largest economy since January.

Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias, the leader of Podemos, announced earlier this month that the labour ministry was looking into reducing work hours, saying this "could without a doubt favour the creation of employment".

He was responding during a TV interview to the proposal made by a far-left lawmaker that called for the work week to be reduced to 32 hours from the current 40 hours.

"Work time requires a new concept which dares to challenge, as we do, the laws and customs of the working world," added Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz, also from Podemos, on Twitter.

The proposal comes as the New Zealand branch of Unilever earlier this month began a trial of a four-day work week for its staff in the country.

Germany's powerful IG Metall union has also floated the idea.

- 'Quality of life' -

But in Spain the idea has been met with reluctance from the Socialists, the dominant party in Spain's first coalition government since its return to democracy in the late 1970s.

Budget Minister Maria Jesus Montero said the government "must not lose focus" from its main priority, which is "to return to the growth rates which we had at the start of the pandemic".

Spain's heavily tourism-dependent economy had consistently outperformed much of Europe since it emerged from a five-year slump in 2013.

But the International Monetary Fund (IMF) sees the country's GDP slumping by 12.8 percent this year, in what would make it the hardest-hit nation among the world's advanced economies.

"I don't think this issue is a priority for Spain, given the current levels of productivity and competitiveness," said Social Security Minister Jose Luis Escriva, in a reference to productivity levels&nbsp;well below the European average, partially due to the large proportion of small businesses.

"I don't think there is room for that," he added.

But Spain's second largest union confederation, the UGT which is close to the Socialists, has long called for a four-day work week, with a fifth day dedicated to professional development.

"With this, we will gain competitiveness, quality of life and employment," said UGT leader Pepe Alvarez.

- 'Pipe dream' -

Spain's largest union, Comisiones Obreras also backs the four-day work week but says it prefers to focus on raising the minimum wage and reforming Spain's labour code in its talks with the government and businesses.

The proposal for a shorter work week has irritated employers.

"With all that we are dealing with, it's a pipe dream," tweeted the vice-president of Spain's main business lobby CEOE, Lorenzo Amor.

The governor of the Bank of Spain, Pablo Hernandez de Cos, has warned the measures "need a very rigorous analysis".

"If someone works for four days instead of five, what happens to their salary?" he asked, explaining that the impact a shorter work week will have on job creation will hinge on the effect of the measure on labour costs.

Diaz, the labour minister, admitted that the proposal the way it was made was too "rigid" and "ineffective for certain sectors".

"The key question is to move towards greater internal flexibility within companies, and above all to allow each employee to adapt their own working times," she added.&nbsp;

Spain's coalition government is deeply split over a proposal to shorten the work week to four days to fight high unemployment sparked by the coronavirus pandemic.

Spain's coalition government is deeply split over a proposal to shorten the work week to four days to fight high unemployment sparked by the coronavirus pandemic. The measure is being pushed by far-left party Podemos, the junior partner in Socialist Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez's minority government which has ruled the eurozone's fourth largest economy since January. Deputy Prime Minister Pablo Iglesias, the leader of Podemos, announced earlier this month that the labour ministry was looking into reducing work hours, saying this "could without a doubt favour the creation of employment". He was responding during a TV interview to the proposal made by a far-left lawmaker that called for the work week to be reduced to 32 hours from the current 40 hours. "Work time requires a new concept which dares to challenge, as we do, the laws and customs of the working world," added Labour Minister Yolanda Diaz, also from Podemos, on Twitter. The proposal comes as the New Zealand branch of Unilever earlier this month began a trial of a four-day work week for its staff in the country. Germany's powerful IG Metall union has also floated the idea. - 'Quality of life' - But in Spain the idea has been met with reluctance from the Socialists, the dominant party in Spain's first coalition government since its return to democracy in the late 1970s. Budget Minister Maria Jesus Montero said the government "must not lose focus" from its main priority, which is "to return to the growth rates which we had at the start of the pandemic". Spain's heavily tourism-dependent economy had consistently outperformed much of Europe since it emerged from a five-year slump in 2013. But the International Monetary Fund (IMF) sees the country's GDP slumping by 12.8 percent this year, in what would make it the hardest-hit nation among the world's advanced economies. "I don't think this issue is a priority for Spain, given the current levels of productivity and competitiveness," said Social Security Minister Jose Luis Escriva, in a reference to productivity levels well below the European average, partially due to the large proportion of small businesses. "I don't think there is room for that," he added. But Spain's second largest union confederation, the UGT which is close to the Socialists, has long called for a four-day work week, with a fifth day dedicated to professional development. "With this, we will gain competitiveness, quality of life and employment," said UGT leader Pepe Alvarez. - 'Pipe dream' - Spain's largest union, Comisiones Obreras also backs the four-day work week but says it prefers to focus on raising the minimum wage and reforming Spain's labour code in its talks with the government and businesses. The proposal for a shorter work week has irritated employers. "With all that we are dealing with, it's a pipe dream," tweeted the vice-president of Spain's main business lobby CEOE, Lorenzo Amor. The governor of the Bank of Spain, Pablo Hernandez de Cos, has warned the measures "need a very rigorous analysis". "If someone works for four days instead of five, what happens to their salary?" he asked, explaining that the impact a shorter work week will have on job creation will hinge on the effect of the measure on labour costs. Diaz, the labour minister, admitted that the proposal the way it was made was too "rigid" and "ineffective for certain sectors". "The key question is to move towards greater internal flexibility within companies, and above all to allow each employee to adapt their own working times," she added.

Spain ruling coalition divided over four-day work week

After several countries started mass vaccination drive, Spain, too, has decided to start immunising people against the novel coronavirus from December 27.

The mass vaccination drive will be starting a day after the country receives its first doses of the coronavirus vaccine, the country's health minister Salvador Illa announced on Friday.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/beginning-of-the-end-of-coronavirus-us-vice-president-mike-pence-receives-vaccine-jab-350801" hreflang="en">'Beginning of the end of coronavirus': US Vice President Mike Pence receives vaccine jab</a>

Spain locals will be receiving doses of the approved Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against the novel coronavirus. While the government will be giving access to everyone for the vaccine, the officials are still urging locals to make sure they follow the existing COVID-19 regulations.

"This is the beginning of the end of the pandemic, not the end, so we must continue to keep our guard up," Salvador Illa said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/brazils-supreme-court-paves-way-for-sanctions-against-covid-anti-vaxxers-350797" hreflang="en">Brazil’s Supreme Court paves way for sanctions against COVID anti-vaxxers</a>

As per the initial plans laid out by the government, elderly locals and staff members in the nursing homes will be given preference for the vaccine. After the hospital staff and elderly residents, health workers and other people prone to the virus will be receiving the next doses.

The Spanish government has estimated vaccinating 15-20 million out of a population of 47 million people by the end of the month of June.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/watch-us-nurse-passes-out-after-getting-pfizer-biontechs-covid-19-vaccine-350712" hreflang="en">Watch: US nurse passes out after getting Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine</a>

This statement came a day after the European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to begin vaccinating the people of European countries between December 27-29. Spain, like the rest of the EU, will be relying on the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for now.

Spain was one of the worst hit countries of the continent as more than 1.7 million were infected by the virus, taking nearly 48,000 lives.

After several countries started mass vaccination drive, Spain, too, has decided to start immunising people against the novel coronavirus from December 27. The mass vaccination drive will be starting a day after the country receives its first doses of the coronavirus vaccine, the country's health minister Salvador Illa announced on Friday.

After several countries started mass vaccination drive, Spain, too, has decided to start immunising people against the novel coronavirus from December 27. The mass vaccination drive will be starting a day after the country receives its first doses of the coronavirus vaccine, the country's health minister Salvador Illa announced on Friday. Also read| 'Beginning of the end of coronavirus': US Vice President Mike Pence receives vaccine jab Spain locals will be receiving doses of the approved Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine against the novel coronavirus. While the government will be giving access to everyone for the vaccine, the officials are still urging locals to make sure they follow the existing COVID-19 regulations. "This is the beginning of the end of the pandemic, not the end, so we must continue to keep our guard up," Salvador Illa said. Also read| Brazil’s Supreme Court paves way for sanctions against COVID anti-vaxxers As per the initial plans laid out by the government, elderly locals and staff members in the nursing homes will be given preference for the vaccine. After the hospital staff and elderly residents, health workers and other people prone to the virus will be receiving the next doses. The Spanish government has estimated vaccinating 15-20 million out of a population of 47 million people by the end of the month of June. Also read| Watch: US nurse passes out after getting Pfizer-BioNTech’s COVID-19 vaccine This statement came a day after the European Commission chief Ursula von der Leyen announced plans to begin vaccinating the people of European countries between December 27-29. Spain, like the rest of the EU, will be relying on the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine for now. Spain was one of the worst hit countries of the continent as more than 1.7 million were infected by the virus, taking nearly 48,000 lives.

Spain to start mass vaccination drive against COVID-19 next week

The share of the Spanish population that contracted coronavirus has nearly doubled to almost 10%, or about 4.7 million people, in the second wave of contagion since late summer, results from the latest stage of a nationwide antibody study showed on Tuesday.

One in 10 Spaniards have had coronavirus, antibody study shows

The Spanish government has promised an ambitious European Union-funded programme to provide adequate internet connectivity to 100 percent of Spain's population by 2025.

Your Story: 1 in 4 Spaniards do not have access to good internet service

A new study shows that one in 10 Spaniards have had COVID-19, based on antibody samples from the country.

Since the last wave, the share of Spanish population to have contracted COVID-19 has doubled to 10 per cent or 4.7 million people, according to data from a nationwide antibody study.

<div class="videoWrapper trancodeVideo"><iframe allowfullscreen="" autoplay="1" class="includeVideo" frameborder="0" height="350" src="https://www.wionews.com/videos/spanish-104-year-old-woman-returns-home-after-beating-coronavirus-349941/embed" style="width:100%;max-width:560px;" width="560"></iframe></div>

In the second half of November, more than 51,400 were tested in the country. The study ascertained that way more people in the country have had COVID-19 than previously thought. The study exceeds the number of confirmed cases which stand at 1.75 million.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/world/face-shields-and-visors-can-spread-coronavirus-study-349974" hreflang="en">Face shields and visors can spread coronavirus: Study</a>

"One in 10 people living in Spain would have been infected ..., half during the first wave and the other half during this second epidemic wave," Raquel Yotti, director of Spain's Carlos III Health Institute, which co-led the study, said.

Out of all the Spanish regions, the prevalence of COVID-19 remained the highest in Madrid, with 18.6 per cent of its population testing positive for coronavirus antibodies.

Results from a similar study that were published in July after testing 70,000 people in April-June showed a prevalence rate of over 5 per cent.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="http://13.235.153.162/science/scientists-develop-coronavirus-risk-calculator-to-determine-who-should-get-vaccine-first-349954" hreflang="en">Scientists develop coronavirus risk calculator to determine who should get vaccine first</a>

Spain continues to remain one of Europe’s hardest-hit countries by the pandemic. This is true for not only the virus, but also its economic impact.

The pandemic has killed 48,401 people in the country. Over the last 24 hours, 388 new deaths have been recorded in the country.

On Tuesday, 10,328 new cases were reported. The total in the country since the contagion began stands at 1,762,212.

A new study shows that one in 10 Spaniards have had COVID-19, based on antibody samples from the country. Since the last wave, the share of Spanish population to have contracted COVID-19 has doubled to 10 per cent or 4.

A new study shows that one in 10 Spaniards have had COVID-19, based on antibody samples from the country. Since the last wave, the share of Spanish population to have contracted COVID-19 has doubled to 10 per cent or 4.7 million people, according to data from a nationwide antibody study. In the second half of November, more than 51,400 were tested in the country. The study ascertained that way more people in the country have had COVID-19 than previously thought. The study exceeds the number of confirmed cases which stand at 1.75 million. Also read: Face shields and visors can spread coronavirus: Study "One in 10 people living in Spain would have been infected ..., half during the first wave and the other half during this second epidemic wave," Raquel Yotti, director of Spain's Carlos III Health Institute, which co-led the study, said. Out of all the Spanish regions, the prevalence of COVID-19 remained the highest in Madrid, with 18.6 per cent of its population testing positive for coronavirus antibodies. Results from a similar study that were published in July after testing 70,000 people in April-June showed a prevalence rate of over 5 per cent. Also read: Scientists develop coronavirus risk calculator to determine who should get vaccine first Spain continues to remain one of Europe’s hardest-hit countries by the pandemic. This is true for not only the virus, but also its economic impact. The pandemic has killed 48,401 people in the country. Over the last 24 hours, 388 new deaths have been recorded in the country. On Tuesday, 10,328 new cases were reported. The total in the country since the contagion began stands at 1,762,212.

One in 10 Spaniards have had COVID-19, nationwide antibody study shows

104-year-old Elena returned home last week after beating coronavirus and becoming a symbol of hope for Spain's second wave of coronavirus.

Spanish 104 year-old woman returns home after beating coronavirus

As Europe is fighting to contain the second wave of the novel coronavirus, the health minister of Spain has claimed Spain could achieve herd immunity by the end of summer 2021.

Salvador Illa, the Minister of Health of Spain, during an interview, revealed that the Spanish government is aiming to start a vaccination programme in January and get more than two-thirds of the population vaccinated.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/schools-salons-shut-down-in-germany-as-merkel-announces-another-covid-19-lockdown-349511">Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another lockdown</a>

"In Europe, even if it is not the final end, we will be in a very different stage. That is why I think we are at the beginning of the end with this time horizon that I say, from five to six months," he told a local newspaper.

When he was questioned if he was hinting towards herd immunity, he assured he meant the same. "Yes. It is what the technicians call that, that people have immunity either because they are vaccinated or because they have had the disease," he said.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/uk-pm-urges-using-scientific-advances-to-battle-climate-change-349383">UK PM urges using scientific advances to battle climate change</a>

Spain has a total population of nearly 47 million. The European country recorded&nbsp;10,519 new cases on Friday, taking the coronavirus tally to&nbsp;1,730,575 and the death toll to 47,624 with 280 new deaths on Friday.

While the minister assured vaccinations will soon be available for everyone at minimum possible cost, he also urged people to exercise caution, especially during the Christmas season. The Spanish government has asked people not to organise or participate in large gatherings and wear a face mask at all times. Although there are no lockdown restrictions imposed by the government, the experts are urging people to stay indoors unless there is an emergency situation.

The statement by the Spanish minister came a few hours after their fellow European country, Germany, announced another partial lockdown for the Christmas season to contain the spread of the deadly virus in the country.

As Europe is fighting to contain the second wave of the novel coronavirus, the health minister of Spain has claimed Spain could achieve herd immunity by the end of summer 2021.

As Europe is fighting to contain the second wave of the novel coronavirus, the health minister of Spain has claimed Spain could achieve herd immunity by the end of summer 2021. Salvador Illa, the Minister of Health of Spain, during an interview, revealed that the Spanish government is aiming to start a vaccination programme in January and get more than two-thirds of the population vaccinated. Also read| Schools, salons shut down in Germany as Merkel announces another lockdown "In Europe, even if it is not the final end, we will be in a very different stage. That is why I think we are at the beginning of the end with this time horizon that I say, from five to six months," he told a local newspaper. When he was questioned if he was hinting towards herd immunity, he assured he meant the same. "Yes. It is what the technicians call that, that people have immunity either because they are vaccinated or because they have had the disease," he said. Also read| UK PM urges using scientific advances to battle climate change Spain has a total population of nearly 47 million. The European country recorded 10,519 new cases on Friday, taking the coronavirus tally to 1,730,575 and the death toll to 47,624 with 280 new deaths on Friday. While the minister assured vaccinations will soon be available for everyone at minimum possible cost, he also urged people to exercise caution, especially during the Christmas season. The Spanish government has asked people not to organise or participate in large gatherings and wear a face mask at all times. Although there are no lockdown restrictions imposed by the government, the experts are urging people to stay indoors unless there is an emergency situation. The statement by the Spanish minister came a few hours after their fellow European country, Germany, announced another partial lockdown for the Christmas season to contain the spread of the deadly virus in the country.

Spain will develop herd immunity for coronavirus by summer 2021: Health Minister

In accordance with the newly-reached European Union agreements Spain will abolish value-added tax (VAT) on the sale of COVID-19 vaccines and tests until the end of 2022, a senior official said Wednesday.

The government aims to cover large strata of people by the month of May. According to a tally by the John Hopkins University, Spain has a total of 1,720,056 cases with 47,344 fatalities.&nbsp;

In Spain COVID-19 vaccinations will be free for citizens and administered by the public health system, Spain's Finance Minister and Government Spokesperson Maria Jesus Montero told the press after the weekly cabinet meeting.

The decision, she explained, is in line with EU guidelines issued on Monday requiring member states to modify VAT rates to zero or reduce the rates "temporarily."

Meanwhile, Spanish Health Minister Salvador Illa explained that Spain will kick off vaccination in January, aiming to cover a large percentage of the population by May.

It was the first time since August that the 14-day cumulative number of cases per 100,000 inhabitants had fallen below 200.

(With inputs from agencies)

In accordance with the newly-reached European Union agreements Spain will abolish value-added tax (VAT) on the sale of COVID-19 vaccines and tests until the end of 2022, a senior official said Wednesday.

In accordance with the newly-reached European Union agreements Spain will abolish value-added tax (VAT) on the sale of COVID-19 vaccines and tests until the end of 2022, a senior official said Wednesday. The government aims to cover large strata of people by the month of May. According to a tally by the John Hopkins University, Spain has a total of 1,720,056 cases with 47,344 fatalities. In Spain COVID-19 vaccinations will be free for citizens and administered by the public health system, Spain's Finance Minister and Government Spokesperson Maria Jesus Montero told the press after the weekly cabinet meeting. The decision, she explained, is in line with EU guidelines issued on Monday requiring member states to modify VAT rates to zero or reduce the rates "temporarily." Meanwhile, Spanish Health Minister Salvador Illa explained that Spain will kick off vaccination in January, aiming to cover a large percentage of the population by May. It was the first time since August that the 14-day cumulative number of cases per 100,000 inhabitants had fallen below 200. (With inputs from agencies)

Spain to provide tax-free coronavirus vaccines and tests until 2022 end 

Four lions at a Barcelona zoo have tested positive for coronavirus, veterinary authorities said on Tuesday.

This is only the second known case in which large felines have contracted the virus.

Two staff at the zoo also tested positive for coronavirus, the authorities said, after the outbreak was first detected last month.

Three females named Zala, Nima and Run Run and Kiumbe, a male, were tested after keepers noticed they showed slight symptoms of coronavirus.

Authorities are now investigating how the lions became infected. The four-year-old male and the females, who are all 16 years old, have had no contact with other animals at the zoo, which is open to visitors.

Keepers carried out PCR tests on the lions in the same way as humans are tested as the animals are acustomed to contact with the zoo staff.

The Veterinary Service of Barcelona contacted colleagues at the Bronx Zoo in New York, where four tigers and three lions tested positive for COVID-19 in April. It is the only other zoo where large felines are known to have contracted coronavirus. All recovered.

“The Zoo has contacted and collaborated with international experts such as the Veterinary Service of the Bronx Zoo, the only one that has documented cases of Sars-CoV-2 infection in felines,” the Barcelona zoo said in a statement.

“The lions were given veterinary care for their mild clinical condition - similar to a very mild flu condition - through anti-inflammatory treatment and close monitoring, and the animals responded well.” 
&nbsp;

Four lions at a Barcelona zoo have tested positive for coronavirus, veterinary authorities said on Tuesday. This is only the second known case in which large felines have contracted the virus.

Four lions at a Barcelona zoo have tested positive for coronavirus, veterinary authorities said on Tuesday. This is only the second known case in which large felines have contracted the virus. Two staff at the zoo also tested positive for coronavirus, the authorities said, after the outbreak was first detected last month. Three females named Zala, Nima and Run Run and Kiumbe, a male, were tested after keepers noticed they showed slight symptoms of coronavirus. Authorities are now investigating how the lions became infected. The four-year-old male and the females, who are all 16 years old, have had no contact with other animals at the zoo, which is open to visitors. Keepers carried out PCR tests on the lions in the same way as humans are tested as the animals are acustomed to contact with the zoo staff. The Veterinary Service of Barcelona contacted colleagues at the Bronx Zoo in New York, where four tigers and three lions tested positive for COVID-19 in April. It is the only other zoo where large felines are known to have contracted coronavirus. All recovered. “The Zoo has contacted and collaborated with international experts such as the Veterinary Service of the Bronx Zoo, the only one that has documented cases of Sars-CoV-2 infection in felines,” the Barcelona zoo said in a statement. “The lions were given veterinary care for their mild clinical condition - similar to a very mild flu condition - through anti-inflammatory treatment and close monitoring, and the animals responded well.”

Four lions at a zoo in Spain test positive for coronavirus

Spain's Bilbao museum included masks, gloves and toilet papers within their nativity scenes to integrate the pandemic in their tradition.

Masks sneak into Bilbao's museums nativity scenes

Women in Spain marched on Wednesday (November 25) to highlight how lockdowns due to the pandemic had left many trapped with their abusers and exposed to greater danger. The marches in Madrid and Bilbao marked the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women.

Spanish women join global call for end to domestic violence

Elderly residents and health workers at nursing homes will be the first to be vaccinated against the coronavirus in Spain as outlined in the government's vaccination plan unveiled on Tuesday (November 24) which is due to kick off in January.

"Yes, I'll have it!" - Madrid elderly resident approves of Spain's vaccination plan

As Europe is battling the second wave of the novel coronavirus and has initiated a second lockdown, Spain is one country where the government is satisfied with the 'plan'.

Spain's&nbsp;Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on Saturday, appreciated the progress the country has made in the last few weeks and said the plan of containing the virus through lockdown "is working".

He made this announcement while unveiling details of plans to vaccinate a majority part of the population as quickly as possible after the vaccine is ready and available.&nbsp;

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/us-hits-12-million-covid-19-cases-as-many-americans-defy-thanksgiving-travel-guidance-344596">US hits 12 million COVID-19 cases as many Americans defy Thanksgiving travel guidance</a>

"The capacity which our national health service has to vaccinate in a short amount of time is frankly outstanding and gives us confidence that we can achieve this ambitious goal," Sanchez said. "We still have very difficult months ahead but the road map has been drawn up."

In the recently conducted G20 virtual conference, he told his fellow leaders that the country has been successful in bringing down COVID-19 cases to nearly 400 from 530 daily cases within 15 days.

Also read|&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/no-normal-christmas-this-year-says-britains-finance-minister-rishi-sunak-344710">No 'normal' Christmas this year, says Britain's Finance Minister Rishi Sunak</a>

He also added that this has been possible simply because of the lockdown and added that this is a proof that the declaration of a state of emergency last month,&nbsp;which allowed regional governments to impose virus restrictions such as nighttime curfews and limitations on inter-regional travel, is having an effect.

The country is now planning to vaccinate the majority of the population — a cumulative figure of approximately 47 million — by mid-2021. The process will start in&nbsp;January 2021 and the government will establish nearly 13,000 vaccination points across the country.

He also recalled that 14 million people had received the flu shot within eight weeks in 2020, which is four million more than the number of people who received the flu shot in 2019.

More details of the plan, which has been in development since September, would be unveiled after it is approved on Tuesday during a weekly cabinet meeting, Sanchez said.

As Europe is battling the second wave of the novel coronavirus and has initiated a second lockdown, Spain is one country where the government is satisfied with the 'plan'.

As Europe is battling the second wave of the novel coronavirus and has initiated a second lockdown, Spain is one country where the government is satisfied with the 'plan'. Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez, on Saturday, appreciated the progress the country has made in the last few weeks and said the plan of containing the virus through lockdown "is working". He made this announcement while unveiling details of plans to vaccinate a majority part of the population as quickly as possible after the vaccine is ready and available. Also read| US hits 12 million COVID-19 cases as many Americans defy Thanksgiving travel guidance "The capacity which our national health service has to vaccinate in a short amount of time is frankly outstanding and gives us confidence that we can achieve this ambitious goal," Sanchez said. "We still have very difficult months ahead but the road map has been drawn up." In the recently conducted G20 virtual conference, he told his fellow leaders that the country has been successful in bringing down COVID-19 cases to nearly 400 from 530 daily cases within 15 days. Also read| No 'normal' Christmas this year, says Britain's Finance Minister Rishi Sunak He also added that this has been possible simply because of the lockdown and added that this is a proof that the declaration of a state of emergency last month, which allowed regional governments to impose virus restrictions such as nighttime curfews and limitations on inter-regional travel, is having an effect. The country is now planning to vaccinate the majority of the population — a cumulative figure of approximately 47 million — by mid-2021. The process will start in January 2021 and the government will establish nearly 13,000 vaccination points across the country. He also recalled that 14 million people had received the flu shot within eight weeks in 2020, which is four million more than the number of people who received the flu shot in 2019. More details of the plan, which has been in development since September, would be unveiled after it is approved on Tuesday during a weekly cabinet meeting, Sanchez said.

'Lockdown is working', says Spain's Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez on COVID-19 plan

A substantial part of the Spanish population will be vaccinated against COVID-19 in the first half of 2021, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Friday, highlighting also a steadily slowing pace of contagion after restrictions imposed in recent weeks.

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/despite-vaccine-breakthrough-social-distancing-and-wearing-masks-may-remain-344420" hreflang="en">Despite vaccine breakthrough, social distancing and wearing masks may remain</a>

The government has set aside over 1 billion euros for coronavirus vaccines next year and created a committee to establish who comes first.

Sanchez told a news conference the government would unveil a vaccination plan on Tuesday, without elaborating.

Promising data from Phase III trials of potential vaccines by Pfizer&nbsp;and BioNTech, Moderna&nbsp;and others has recently boosted hopes that vaccines against the pandemic disease may be ready for use soon.

Officials have said Spain hoped to get the first 20 million vaccine doses from Pfizer in early 2021. There is also a plan to buy 31.6 million doses of the vaccine being developed by Britain's AstraZeneca&nbsp;between December and June, if it is ready.

The vaccination would be free, according to Health Minister Salvador Illa.

Spain's death toll from the coronavirus rose by 328 to 42,619 on Friday, while cumulative cases rose by more than 15,000 to 1,556,730.

RESTRICTIONS

Spain, which has western Europe's second highest tally of infections after France, imposed a six-month state of emergency at the end of October, giving regions legal backing to impose curfews and restrict travel.

Sanchez said that path had proven to be adequate.

"For two consecutive weeks, we have seen new infections falling at a sustained pace," he said.

New infections measured over the past 14 days have fallen to 436 per 100,000 people from 530 in the first week of November, he said.

But there are no signs yet of restrictions being lifted.

The government of the Madrid region, one of Spain's worst-hit, said on Friday it would prevent people from leaving and entering for 10 days from Dec. 4 to avoid mass travel around the Dec. 6 Constitution Day holiday.

"We want to be in the best possible condition by Christmas," said Antonio Zapatero, head of Madrid's COVID-19 response.

New infections in Madrid have already fallen to less than 300 per 100,000 people from a peak of 800 in late September.

A substantial part of the Spanish population will be vaccinated against COVID-19 in the first half of 2021, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Friday, highlighting also a steadily slowing pace of contagion after restrictions imposed in recent weeks.

A substantial part of the Spanish population will be vaccinated against COVID-19 in the first half of 2021, Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said on Friday, highlighting also a steadily slowing pace of contagion after restrictions imposed in recent weeks. Also read: Despite vaccine breakthrough, social distancing and wearing masks may remain The government has set aside over 1 billion euros for coronavirus vaccines next year and created a committee to establish who comes first. Sanchez told a news conference the government would unveil a vaccination plan on Tuesday, without elaborating. Promising data from Phase III trials of potential vaccines by Pfizer and BioNTech, Moderna and others has recently boosted hopes that vaccines against the pandemic disease may be ready for use soon. Officials have said Spain hoped to get the first 20 million vaccine doses from Pfizer in early 2021. There is also a plan to buy 31.6 million doses of the vaccine being developed by Britain's AstraZeneca between December and June, if it is ready. The vaccination would be free, according to Health Minister Salvador Illa. Spain's death toll from the coronavirus rose by 328 to 42,619 on Friday, while cumulative cases rose by more than 15,000 to 1,556,730. RESTRICTIONS Spain, which has western Europe's second highest tally of infections after France, imposed a six-month state of emergency at the end of October, giving regions legal backing to impose curfews and restrict travel. Sanchez said that path had proven to be adequate. "For two consecutive weeks, we have seen new infections falling at a sustained pace," he said. New infections measured over the past 14 days have fallen to 436 per 100,000 people from 530 in the first week of November, he said. But there are no signs yet of restrictions being lifted. The government of the Madrid region, one of Spain's worst-hit, said on Friday it would prevent people from leaving and entering for 10 days from Dec. 4 to avoid mass travel around the Dec. 6 Constitution Day holiday. "We want to be in the best possible condition by Christmas," said Antonio Zapatero, head of Madrid's COVID-19 response. New infections in Madrid have already fallen to less than 300 per 100,000 people from a peak of 800 in late September.

Spain eyes 'substantial' vaccination in first half 2021, contagion slows

Despite challenging COVID-19 times, Bilbao's Guggenheim Museum will launch on Friday (November 20) Russian abstract painter Vasily Kandinsky's exhibition to a reduced public. The Kandinsky exhibition was set to be the museum's biggest crowd puller of 2020, but with restrictions due to the coronavirus pandemic in Spain, will be much "quieter" than planned.

Guggenheim Museum to open Kandinsky exhibition despite COVID challenges

Barcelona star Sergio Busquests has been the latest player to get injured in the Nations League. The Spanish midfielder suffered a "light sprain" after colliding with Breel Embolo in Saturday's 1-1 draw in Switzerland, a result which allowed Germany to replace Spain at the top of the group.

Due to this injury, Busquets will miss out his country's Nations League decider against Germany. This is a must-win match for Luis Enrique's team as it will decide the team that will qualify for the Nations League finals next October. France became the first team to reach the four-team finals at the weekend.

The match will be played in Seville on Tuesday. Busquets is also expected to be ruled out of Barcelona's La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid in the Spanish capital on Saturday.

Earlier, Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson got injured during his Nations League game for England against Belgium. The English player witnessed tightness in his leg, manager Gareth Southgate said, casting doubt on his availability for injury-hit Liverpool this weekend.

"Jordan had a bit of tightness at halftime and felt he couldn't carry on," Southgate told reporters, adding that he was not sure if it was a hamstring issue.

Barcelona star Sergio Busquests has been the latest player to get injured in the Nations League. The Spanish midfielder suffered a "light sprain" after colliding with Breel Embolo in Saturday's 1-1 draw in Switzerland, a result which allowed Germany to replace Spain at the top of the group.

Barcelona star Sergio Busquests has been the latest player to get injured in the Nations League. The Spanish midfielder suffered a "light sprain" after colliding with Breel Embolo in Saturday's 1-1 draw in Switzerland, a result which allowed Germany to replace Spain at the top of the group. Due to this injury, Busquets will miss out his country's Nations League decider against Germany. This is a must-win match for Luis Enrique's team as it will decide the team that will qualify for the Nations League finals next October. France became the first team to reach the four-team finals at the weekend. The match will be played in Seville on Tuesday. Busquets is also expected to be ruled out of Barcelona's La Liga clash against Atletico Madrid in the Spanish capital on Saturday. Earlier, Liverpool skipper Jordan Henderson got injured during his Nations League game for England against Belgium. The English player witnessed tightness in his leg, manager Gareth Southgate said, casting doubt on his availability for injury-hit Liverpool this weekend. "Jordan had a bit of tightness at halftime and felt he couldn't carry on," Southgate told reporters, adding that he was not sure if it was a hamstring issue.

Nations League: Sergio Busquets to miss Germany match due to knee sprain

Thirty-one-year old Ines Alcolea ditched the bustling Madrid life in October for a village near the much quieter medieval town of Toledo, unable to face the prospect of more COVID-19 restrictions in her small flat in the Spanish capital.

Spain's hard-pressed millennials are giving up on the city amid COVID

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 53 million people, with over 13 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide has risen by 657,312 within the past 24 hours marking the largest daily increase since the outbreak of the pandemic, the World Health Organisation said on Saturday.

As of 19:30 GMT, the global tally of COVID-19 infections amounts to 53,927,158.

Most of those new cases were registered in Europe (over 285,000) and the Americas (over 269,000).

Meanwhile, the death toll worldwide has reached 1,311,192, with 9,797 fatalities being recorded over the past day.&nbsp;

(With inputs from agencies)

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 53 million people, with over 13 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019.

The deadly Covid-19 across the world has now infected more than 53 million people, with over 13 lakh people succumbing to the virus that was first reported in late December 2019. The number of confirmed COVID-19 cases worldwide has risen by 657,312 within the past 24 hours marking the largest daily increase since the outbreak of the pandemic, the World Health Organisation said on Saturday. As of 19:30 GMT, the global tally of COVID-19 infections amounts to 53,927,158. Most of those new cases were registered in Europe (over 285,000) and the Americas (over 269,000). Meanwhile, the death toll worldwide has reached 1,311,192, with 9,797 fatalities being recorded over the past day. (With inputs from agencies)

WHO confirms record 657,312 coronavirus cases worldwide in a single day

Sergio Ramos missed two penalties as Spain needed a late equaliser from Gerard Moreno to draw 1-1 with Switzerland in the Nations League on Saturday but coach Luis Enrique backed his veteran star, saying: "If there had been a third penalty, he'd have taken that as well".&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/nations-league-france-beat-portugal-1-0-to-book-finals-spot-343313" hreflang="en">Nations League: France beat Portugal 1-0 to book finals spot</a>

Ramos was making his 177th appearance for Spain to become the most capped European player in history, pulling clear of Italy's Gianluigi Buffon, who has 176.&nbsp;

But instead of a celebration in Basel, it was a night to forget for the defender, who saw one spot-kick saved by Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer but backed himself to score a second, only to miss again with a dreadful attempted 'Panenka'.&nbsp;

Also read:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/uefa-decides-to-cancel-norways-match-against-romania-343324" hreflang="en">UEFA decides to cancel Norway's match against Romania</a>

"Sergio's numbers for penalties are out of this world," said Enrique.&nbsp;

"If there had been a third penalty, he would have taken that one as well."

Ramos had previously scored 25 penalties in a row and his inaccuracy from the spot cost Spain, who will now have to beat Germany in Sevilla on Tuesday to reach the final four.&nbsp;

"We wanted to win here and the team tried until the end," said Moreno. "It wasn't to be but it's still in our hands to get through, even if we have a difficult game."

Enrique's side have only scored three times in their last five matches and they struggled again to break through against a well-organised Switzerland, who led through&nbsp;Remo Freuler and also had Nico Elvedi sent off with 11 minutes left.

Spain's press was beaten too easily for the first goal as Switzerland counter-attacked at speed.&nbsp;

With Ramos out of position, Breel Embolo raced in behind before pulling a cross back to Freuler, who opened up his left foot and skewed the ball brilliantly into the far corner.&nbsp;

Ferran Torres could have equalised on the stroke of half-time but fired over at the back post before Ramos began his frantic half an hour.&nbsp;

First, he brilliantly blocked Freuler's shot on the line after Unai Simon made a mess of rushing out and then the Spain captain won the first penalty, his header hitting the arm of Sergio Rodriguez, who had turned his back.&nbsp;

But Ramos was unable to convert, his shot well saved by Sommer, who refused to commit too soon and got down quickly to his right.&nbsp;

Twenty minutes later, Alvaro Morata was fouled by Elvedi and Ramos stepped up to make amends, only to compound his earlier error by missing again, this time with an attempted chip that Sommer easily collected.&nbsp;

Spain finally found an equaliser in the 89th minute as Moreno capitalised on a tiring Swiss defence by converting Sergio Reguilon's cross. But Switzerland held on for a point.&nbsp;

Sergio Ramos missed two penalties as Spain needed a late equaliser from Gerard Moreno to draw 1-1 with Switzerland in the Nations League on Saturday but coach Luis Enrique backed his veteran star, saying: "If there had been a third penalty, he'd have taken that as well".

Sergio Ramos missed two penalties as Spain needed a late equaliser from Gerard Moreno to draw 1-1 with Switzerland in the Nations League on Saturday but coach Luis Enrique backed his veteran star, saying: "If there had been a third penalty, he'd have taken that as well". Also read: Nations League: France beat Portugal 1-0 to book finals spot Ramos was making his 177th appearance for Spain to become the most capped European player in history, pulling clear of Italy's Gianluigi Buffon, who has 176. But instead of a celebration in Basel, it was a night to forget for the defender, who saw one spot-kick saved by Swiss goalkeeper Yann Sommer but backed himself to score a second, only to miss again with a dreadful attempted 'Panenka'. Also read: UEFA decides to cancel Norway's match against Romania "Sergio's numbers for penalties are out of this world," said Enrique. "If there had been a third penalty, he would have taken that one as well." Ramos had previously scored 25 penalties in a row and his inaccuracy from the spot cost Spain, who will now have to beat Germany in Sevilla on Tuesday to reach the final four. "We wanted to win here and the team tried until the end," said Moreno. "It wasn't to be but it's still in our hands to get through, even if we have a difficult game." Enrique's side have only scored three times in their last five matches and they struggled again to break through against a well-organised Switzerland, who led through Remo Freuler and also had Nico Elvedi sent off with 11 minutes left. Spain's press was beaten too easily for the first goal as Switzerland counter-attacked at speed. With Ramos out of position, Breel Embolo raced in behind before pulling a cross back to Freuler, who opened up his left foot and skewed the ball brilliantly into the far corner. Ferran Torres could have equalised on the stroke of half-time but fired over at the back post before Ramos began his frantic half an hour. First, he brilliantly blocked Freuler's shot on the line after Unai Simon made a mess of rushing out and then the Spain captain won the first penalty, his header hitting the arm of Sergio Rodriguez, who had turned his back. But Ramos was unable to convert, his shot well saved by Sommer, who refused to commit too soon and got down quickly to his right. Twenty minutes later, Alvaro Morata was fouled by Elvedi and Ramos stepped up to make amends, only to compound his earlier error by missing again, this time with an attempted chip that Sommer easily collected. Spain finally found an equaliser in the 89th minute as Moreno capitalised on a tiring Swiss defence by converting Sergio Reguilon's cross. But Switzerland held on for a point.

Spain boss Enrique backs 'out of this world' Ramos after two penalty misses

Europe second wave of COVID-19 cases continue to worsen. In Spain, for instance, mass testing is underway in Southern region of Andalusia.

Europe's second wave of COVID-19 continue to worsen

Europe second wave of COVID-19 cases continue to worsen. In Spain, for instance, mass testing is underway in Southern region of Andalusia. It has been identified as "possible Coronavirus hotspot".

Europe's second wave of COVID-19 continue to worsen, Spain report 40,000 deaths

spain

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