Spain 2-1 Italy: Late Mato goal book Spain place in UEFA Nations League final

A 2-1 victory over Italy on Thursday evening secured Spain’s place in the final of the UEFA Nations League, which gives La Roja their first chance at silverware since 2012, when they won the European Championships.

It was the latter that gave La Roja a dream start, as he capitalized on a defensive error from Leandro Bonucco to score inside the opening three minutes. It was the second international goal for the Villarreal winger.

Unfortunately for Spain, their lead did not last long. Le Normand, making his international debut, was adjudged to have handled the ball inside the area, which allowed Ciro Immobile to equalise from the penalty spot.

Both teams had chances to take the lead, but it was Spain that did very late on. Rodri’s strike deflected into Joselu’s path, and the soon-to-be Real Madrid forward scored to make it 2-1, which is how things finished.

Spain will take on Croatia in Sunday’s final, and de la Fuente will have the chance to take home silverware in just his fourth match in charge.