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Spain capitulation leaves Uefa Nations League qualification in England’s hands

AP
AP

Qualification for the semi-finals of the Uefa Nations League is in England’s hands after Spain suffered a last-gasp 3-2 defeat to Croatia on Thursday night.

After beating England 2-1 at Wembley and then thrashing Croatia 6-0 in Elche, Luis Enrique’s side had needed only a point against the Three Lions last month to all but guarantee their place in the last four, due to their superior goal difference over the World Cup finalists.

However, a 3-2 loss to Gareth Southgate’s side in Seville threw Group 4 back open again, with all three teams back in with a chance of qualifying.

And after being on the brink of the semi-finals, qualification is now out of La Roja’s hands following their 3-2 defeat in Zagreb.

Spain saw a lot of the ball against Croatia and twice levelled in an entertaining second half which featured five goals, the last scored by Tin Jedvaj in added time.

Zlatko Dalic’s men had taken the lead through Andrej Kramaric earlier in the second period, with Dani Ceballos quickly equalising for Spain and Sergio Ramos converting from the spot after Jedvaj had made it 2-1.

(REUTERS)
(REUTERS)

But as Spain pressed for a winner, they left spaces and Jedvaj converted right at the end to leave La Roja staring at a second successive defeat.

Luis Enrique’s side have now played all of their games and still have six points, meaning they will only qualify if England and Croatia (with four apiece) draw at Wembley on Sunday.

A win for the Three Lions in that match will see them progress to the last four, with Croatia once again standing in their way.