England v Spain: Hits and Flops

On Saturday night, we saw England and Spain play their first ever UEFA Nations League fixture, it was also our first chance to get a look at both sides after their exploits at the World Cup.

England reached the semi-finals of the World Cup in Russia, their best performance in a World Cup since 1990. It was a tougher time for Spain, who, after sacking Julen Lopetegui on the eve of the tournament, were knocked out in the round of 16 by Russia.

This was the first international break in which we have seen the new Nations League, and if you don’t really get it, don’t worry, you are certainly not the only one.

It was Spain who came out on top at Wembley, coming from behind to pick up a 2-1 win, and take control of their Nations League group.

It was England who took an early lead though, with Marcus Rashford slotting home his fourth international goal from short range after an excellent pass from Luke Shaw.

Just two minutes later though, Spain were level, Thiago Alcantara pulling the ball back to Saul Niguez to fire beyond Jordan Pickford. They were ahead before half time, with Thiago once again the creator, with Rodrigo sweeping home his free kick at the near post.

Here are the hits and flops from the game at Wembley.

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Hit: Rodrigo

Rodrigo netted Spain's winner

Spain have struggled to find a consistent centre forward in recent years, since the international retirements of David Villa and Fernando Torres. Rodrigo was given the opportunity to lead the line on Saturday night, with Diego Costa missing the match due to personal reasons. He did an excellent job, and constantly caused the England backline problems running in behind. He also got his goal, beating Jordan Pickford at his near post, and will hope that is enough to keep his place in this Spain side.

Flop: Jordan Henderson

The real criticism of England during the World Cup was the lack of creativity in the midfield. Henderson didn’t really solve that problem against Spain, and he was also responsible for Spain’s second goal. He should really have done more to clear Thiago’s goal at the near post, but was caught out of position. It probably won’t prove too much of a problem in terms of his spot in the side, but only because of the lack of competition in that area.

Hit: Thiago Alcantara

Thiago ran the show against England

Spain seem to be entering a new era, particularly in the centre of midfield. For the first time in a long time, there is no Andres Iniesta, Xavi, or David Silva in the side. They are looking for a new talisman, and given his performance at Wembley, Thiago could be just the man for that role. He controlled play in the centre of the park, and looked every inch like a player capable of taking Iniesta’s place in the side. He also played a part in both goals, setting up Saul for the first, then delivering a free kick for Rodrigo for the winner.

Flop: Harry Kane

Before the game, Kane collected the World Cup Golden Boot, after netting six times at the tournament in Russia. However, he wasn’t his usual self against Spain though, and looked well off the pace. It may be that the lack of a break after the World Cup is catching up with him, but this wasn’t the Harry Kane that England needed tonight. He doesn’t look sharp, and may need a rest before he is back to his brilliant best.

Hit: Sergio Ramos

Ramos captained Spain at Wembley

He may have been booed all night by the England fans at Wembley, but I have no doubt, he loved every minute of it. Ramos is a winner, and he is prepared to do so, by hook or by crook. He is now the senior member of this Spanish squad, and he looked like a leader all night. He defended well up against Harry Kane, and looked good in possession of the ball. There is no doubt that all of the fans who booed Ramos on Saturday would be absolutely delighted if he was in their side.

Miss: Dele Alli

At times, Alli looks a bit lost in this England side. He doesn’t really have a defined role in the team, and at times against Spain, he just seemed to vanish. Given that this England side does at times lack creativity, you would expect Alli to be the sort of player to bring that, and thrive, but he just didn’t look comfortable. He is going to have to prove himself on the international stage if he is to keep his spot in this England team.