Spain defeats Czechia 3-1, Yamal scores for third consecutive match

Spain maintained a perfect record in the 2026-2027 UEFA Nations League Group A with a 3-1 victory over Czechia at Estadio Municipal Carlos Tartiere in Oviedo on 3 October 2026. Lamine Yamal scored in the sixth minute, continuing an extraordinary streak of scoring within six minutes in three consecutive matches during the international window. Rodri doubled Spain's lead in the 35th minute following a deflection off a Czechia defender, and Mikel Merino sealed the win in the 89th minute after Spain's pressing created a loose ball.

Spain's manager Luis de la Fuente made nine changes to the starting lineup from the previous 4-1 victory over Croatia, fielding debuts for Ivan Fresneda and Roberto Fernandez. Despite the tactical adjustments, Spain controlled possession at approximately 70 percent and created thirteen shots to Czechia's one by halftime. Yamal was withdrawn at the interval with Spain already leading 2-0, but the visitors mounted a second-half comeback when Jiri Slama reduced the deficit to 2-1 in the 69th minute.

Czechia appeared to equalize in the 79th minute when Ryan Naderi fired in after goalkeeper David Raya spilled a high ball, but referee Vassilis Fotias disallowed the goal, ruling that a Czechia player had fouled Robin Le Normand during the preceding free-kick delivery. Czechia captain Ladislav Krejci was sent off in the 85th minute for a second yellow card—the first for dissent following his objections to the disallowed goal. Merino converted from close range moments before full-time to secure Spain's third consecutive win.

The result leaves Spain top of Group A with 9 points from 3 matches, already one point away from securing a place in the Nations League quarter-finals. Czechia remain without a point after three matches and must face England next, having already lost to the Three Lions earlier in the window. Spain's unbeaten run extended to 41 matches, with the side welcoming back World Cup and European Championship titles to their home stadium for the first time in eleven years.