Spain edge Netherlands in penalty shootout to reach Nations League semis
Source: news.source.channelnewsasia
Spain defeated the Netherlands 5-4 in a penalty shootout to advance to the Nations League semi-finals after their match ended in a 3-3 draw, resulting in a 5-5 aggregate score. The decisive moment came when Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simon saved a penalty from Donyell Malen, allowing Pedri to score the winning penalty.
Key Points
The match took place at Estadio de Mestalla in Valencia, Spain on March 23, 2025.
Spain initially led through a penalty by Mikel Oyarzabal in the 8th minute.
The Netherlands equalized with a penalty from Memphis Depay early in the second half.
Spain regained the lead with a header by Oyarzabal in the 67th minute, but the Netherlands tied the game again with a goal by Ian Maatsen in the 79th minute, leading to extra time.
In extra time, Lamine Yamal scored for Spain, but Xavi Simons equalized for the Netherlands from a penalty, leading to a penalty shootout.
The shootout went to the sixth round where Unai Simon saved Donyell Malen's penalty, and Pedri scored to win the match for Spain.
