Spain triumphs over Netherlands in penalty shootout

KATHMANDU: Spain have qualified for the UEFA Nations League semifinals for the third consecutive time, overcoming the Netherlands in a dramatic penalty shootout.

The second leg of the clash ended in a thrilling 3–3 draw, with the aggregate score tied at 5–5, forcing the match to go to penalties.

The match took place at Spain’s home ground, where Netherlands’ Memphis Depay, Jaan Maas, and Xavi Simons found the back of the net. For Spain, Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice, while young talent Lamine Yamal added one goal.

Spain took the lead in the 8th minute, with Oyarzabal converting a penalty.

The Netherlands equalized in the 54th minute through Memphis Depay’s penalty. In the 67th minute, Oyarzabal netted his second goal to give Spain the advantage once again.

However, just 12 minutes later, Netherlands’ Jaan Maas scored an incredible goal to send the game into extra time.

In the 103rd minute of extra time, Spain’s Yamal scored a brilliant goal to put Spain back in the lead.

However, just six minutes later, Netherlands’ Xavi Simons converted a penalty to level the game at 3–3, sending the match to a penalty shootout.

Both teams converted their first three penalties successfully. Then, Netherlands’ Noa Lang hit the bar with his attempt, and Spain’s Yamal had his penalty saved by Dutch goalkeeper Bart Verbruggen.

With the pressure mounting, Barcelona’s Pedri stepped up to score the decisive penalty, giving Spain the victory. Netherlands’ Donyell Malen missed his penalty, sealing their elimination from the competition.

Spain will now face France in the semifinals in Germany this June. In the other semifinal, hosts Germany will take on the inaugural Nations League winners, Portugal.