In a thrilling UEFA Nations League match, Spain secured a dramatic 3-2 victory over Switzerland with a 93rd-minute penalty by Bryan Zaragoza. Playing in Tenerife, the Spanish team, led by Coach Luis de la Fuente, faced a determined Swiss side, already relegated but resilient throughout the game.
Zaragoza, currently on loan at Osasuna from Bayern Munich, was pivotal, earning the penalty and converting it decisively. This match marked the first time Spain played in Tenerife in 28 years, making the victory particularly memorable for the local fans.
Spain, already the Euro 2024 champions and Nations League holders, had confirmed their top position in Group A4 before this match. Despite several lineup changes from their previous game against Denmark—including a debut for Athletic Bilbao’s Aitor Paredes—Spain demonstrated depth and adaptability.
Dramatic final minutes as Spain leave it LATE to beat Switzerland and top their UEFA Nations League group 😅🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/XhyB1xojk4
— OneFootball (@OneFootball) November 18, 2024
The match saw an early setback for Spain when Swiss goalkeeper Yvon Mvogo saved Pedri’s penalty. However, Yeremi Pino, playing in his native Canary Islands, quickly put Spain ahead. The Swiss equalized through Joel Monteiro, but Spain regained the lead shortly after, thanks to Bryan Gil’s aggressive play.
The drama heightened when Switzerland’s Andi Zeqiri converted a penalty in the 85th minute, levelling the score again. However, Zaragoza’s last-minute heroics ensured that Spain ended the year on a high note, delighting the home crowd with a well-fought victory.