UEFA Nations League: Yamal scores as Spain beats Czech Republic

Lamine Yamal continued his impressive scoring run as Spain defeated the Czech Republic 3-1 on Saturday to strengthen their position at the top of Group A3 of the Nations League.

The world champions moved three points clear of England, who earlier recorded a 7-0 win over Croatia in Rijeka.

Yamal strikes again for Spain

Spain took control early on in Oviedo when Yamal opened the scoring in the sixth minute with another spectacular finish.

The 19-year-old Barcelona winger collected the ball on the right side of the penalty area, created space for himself and curled an excellent shot into the top corner.

The goal confirmed Yamal’s impressive recent form, with the youngster now having scored 11 goals in his last eight appearances for club and country.

Spain doubled their lead in the 35th minute when Rodri Hernandez arrived in the area and drilled the ball into the top corner after it fell favorably to him.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente made several changes to the team that defeated Croatia on Tuesday, including the international debuts of full-back Ivan Fresneda and striker Roberto Fernandez.

The Czech Republic threatens a comeback

De la Fuente replaced Yamal at half-time to preserve the Barcelona star ahead of Spain’s trip to Croatia on Tuesday.

Without Yamal on the pitch, the pace of the match dropped, allowing the Czech Republic to find a way out.

Jiri Slama reduced the deficit with 20 minutes left after Adam Hlozek put him through, allowing the midfielder to produce a low shot past Spanish goalkeeper David Raya.

Raya was fortunate shortly afterwards when he ceded possession with a misplaced pass while out of goal, although the Czech Republic failed to take advantage.

The Arsenal goalkeeper then produced another shot, with Ryan Naderi turning the loose ball into the net, but the goal was disallowed for a foul on Spanish defender Robin Le Normand.

Spain seals victory late

The Czech Republic’s hopes of completing the comeback suffered another blow when Ladislav Krejci was sent off after receiving a second yellow card for withdrawing Fernandez.

Spain took advantage of their numerical advantage and eventually re-established their two-goal lead through Mikel Merino, who finished from close range in the closing stages.

Liverpool winger Victor Munoz also came close before Merino’s goal completed the scoring.

The victory extends Spain’s unbeaten streak to 41 consecutive matches, including victory in the World Cup final against Argentina in July.