Spain make a winning Nations League start at Wembley

Spain opened their Nations League campaign with a statement victory at Wembley, strengthening the standing of the world champions less than three months after their 2026 World Cup triumph. The result also showed their ability to recover after England overturned an early deficit and moved ahead before the interval.

Lamine Yamal put Spain in front after two minutes, taking advantage of a mistake by Marc Guehi before finishing past Trafford. England responded through Anthony Gordon in the 36th minute, with the forward converting a move led by Jude Bellingham. Harry Kane then headed the hosts in front four minutes later, with the ball taking a touch off Marc Cucurella on its way past Unai Simón.

Kane had the chance to extend England’s advantage early in the second half, but struck the crossbar from the penalty spot in the 54th minute. Spain used that reprieve to regain control. Yamal and Dani Olmo combined in the build-up to the equaliser on 60 minutes, before substitute Mikel Oyarzabal completed the turnaround in the 74th minute from Álex Baena’s delivery. The 3-2 win gives Spain an ideal start to their Nations League defence and maintains the momentum attached to their world title.