Hajime Moriyasu's side followed up their orbit-troubling upset against Germany with a surprise reverse against Costa Rica. Japan still sit second in Group E, one point behind Spain - the only unbeaten team in the group after their draw with Germany.
Japan could qualify with a point if Germany fail to defeat Costa Rica by two goals but a win would cement their spot in the last 16. Spain just need a point to go through.
At least two members of the German squad - Antonio Rudiger and David Raum - told their Spanish club-mates to do them a favour and beat Japan but a win would be beneficial for Spain as well, securing first place and a knockout tie against the runners-up of Group F.
🗣️ Unai Simón: "Soy un jugador muy joven que tiene mucho que aprender. Sigo en progresión e intentando superar mis límites".
The World Cup presents the greatest chance for players to fulfill a lifelong dream of representing their nations on the global stage, with another edition nearby Sportz Point presents the countries that have booked a spot in the final
World Champions Argentina qualify for the World Cup 2026. (Image Credit | AP)
The participating teams' line-up for the FIFA World Cup 2026 has started taking shape, as Iran and Argentina have booked their place from the qualification round into the finals of the tournament.
In 2022, the FIFA World Cupprovided an unforgettable experience for over 1 billion viewers who tuned in. LionelMessi-led Argentina to victory, giving the nation moments of joy and a fitting tribute to the late Diego Maradona while solidifying his place among players who have won every major trophy.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino and his team in their bid to improve the quality of the World Cup and promote inclusivity increased the number of teams that will participate in the World Cup from an initial 32 teams to 48 teams.
The teams will be split into 12 groups of 4 teams, with the top 2 of each group and the 8 best third-placed teams progressing to a new Round of 32,
The tournament will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by 16 cities in three North American countries: Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
The tournament will be the first hosted by three nations and the first North American World Cup since 1994 and will be the first World Cup since 2002 to be hosted by more than one nation.
Qualification for the World Cup is done based on the regions of the World. Each regional Confederation is responsible for its qualification tournament, which will consist of at least one round of competition using the following formats
Confederations can use a League format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group twice – once at home and once away.
A single round-robin format in which each team in a group plays all other teams in their group once, with the venues either drawn at random or assigned by the confederation with the agreement of the playing association
A Knockout format in which each team in a round plays one other team over two legs once at home and once away.
With FIFA's permission, a tournament is held in one of the participating nations or neutral territory.
With FIFA's permission, a single-leg knockout format.
Europe has 16 slots, Asia has 8 slots with one extra from playoffs making it 9, Africa has 9 slots with one extra coming from playoffs,South America has 6 with one extra coming from playoffs making a total of 7, North America has 6 slots with 3 already taken due to the host nations.
Teams That Have Qualified
With qualifications still ongoing the only nations that have qualified are the host nations namely the United States of America, Mexico, and Canada qualification process for the World Cup will be ongoing till the end of November 2025, and till then teams will be struggling to qualify.
1. The USA
Despite not predominantly being a football nation, the United States Men’s National Team (USMNT) has managed to establish a formidable team with the likes of Christian Pulisic and Folarin Balogun.
The appointment of Argentinian Mauricio Pochettino as their head coach shows some sign of intent that the country intends to go as far as possible in the World Cup.
Mexico has qualified for every World Cup in the past decade, but playing on home soil will give them the advantage of fan support. While they may be without their veteran goalkeeper Ochoa, who has been crucial in past tournaments, they remain a team not to be underestimated.
Canada had a memorable 2022 World Cup in Qatar, highlighted by their surprising win against Belgium. However, they lost their remaining group games to Morocco and Croatia, leading to their early exit from the tournament.
Known for their attacking football, Canada relies on pace in midfield and attack, with Jonathan David and Alphonso Davies being key to their World Cup ambitions.
Teams from the Qualifier Rounds
4. Japan
(Image Credit | AP)
Japan has become the first team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup from the qualification round. On March 20, Thursday, Hajime Moriyasu's side beat Bahrain 2-0 in Group C of the AFC World Cup qualifiers.
Daichi Kamada and Takefusa Kubo scored in the second half to inspire the Samurai Blue to ensure their eighth consecutive World Cup appearance, guaranteeing a top-two finish in the qualifiers standings.
New Zealand has qualified for the FIFA World Cup for the third time with a 3-0 home win over New Caledonia in the OFC Qualifiers Final on Monday, March 24.
Three second-half goals from Michael Boxall, Kosta Barbarouses, and Elijah led New Zealand to a comfortable 3-0 win at Eden Park in Auckland. This win marks the All Whites' return to the World Cup for the first time since 2010 when they registered three draws against Slovakia, Italy, and Paraguay in South Africa.
For the first time, the All Whites qualified directly for a World Cup, as Oceania received an automatic spot in next year’s 48-team tournament, rather than having to go through an intercontinental play-off as they did in the past.
6. Iran
(Image Credit | AFP)
Iran have become the second Asian side to reach the 2026 FIFA World Cup finals following a 2-2 draw against Uzbekistan on March 25 in the third round of the AFC World Cup Qualifiers Group A.
Mehdi Taremi's brace secured a point for Iran to stay atop the group A table with 20 points in 8 matches, securing the guaranteed top two finish in the group stage. On the other hand, Uzbekistan is just one victory away from their inaugural World Cup appearance.
Tino pai to our fantastic national football team🙌 Mean as! Iran has secured its place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the third team to qualify after Japan and @NZ_Football Ka mau te wehi 🇮🇷 This marks our fourth consecutive appearance after 2014,2018,and2022!#FIFAWorldCuppic.twitter.com/2RjE9j2gpa
— The Embassy of the Islamic Republic of Iran (@iranembassy_nz) March 25, 2025
Despite the qualification format being made easier for Asia due to the expanded 48-team World Cup, Iran has sealed the passage to their fourth World Cup finals in a row, and seventh in their history.
In the AFC Qualifiers, the top two teams qualify directly for the World Cup, while the teams finishing third and fourth in the three Asian groups will enter an additional qualifying round.
7. Argentina
(Image Credit | EPA)
The reigning World Champions have stormed into the FIFA World Cup 2026 following a 4-1 crushing over eternal rivals Brazil in the CONMEBOL World Cup Qualifiers on March 26.
La Albiceleste currently top the table with 31 points in 14 matches, 16 points clear of seventh-placed Venezuela than the required seven points at this point.
UEFA Nations League 2025 Semifinals: Everything you need to know about the fixtures
In this article, get to know everything about the fixtures, dates, and teams and everything you need to know about the UEFA Nations League Semifinals 2025.
France eliminated Croatia after knocking them out in a penalty shootout (5-4) to secure their spot into the semis. Their match was tied 2-2 forcing them to move on penalties.
Spain had the last laugh as they knocked out the Netherlands after winning the penalty shootout 5-4. The game was tied too at 3-3 during the extra time.
Germany was the only team to advance in regulation over the two legs against Italy. They defeated Italy on a 5-4 aggregate as they reached the semis.
Portugal got the better of Denmark as they defeated them 5-3 on aggregate with the help of Cristiano Ronaldo's 929th career goal and Fransico Trincao's late brace.
Football fans from India can watch the UEFA Nations League 2025 Semifinals match LIVE on Sony Ten 3 TV Channel on Television and the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Fixtures Details
The UEFA Nations League semifinals will be played over one leg on the 5th and 6th of June as the final takes place on the 8th of June. The losing sides from both matches will get to play another match for third place.
Spain vs France (6th June, 12:15 am IST)
Portugal vs Germany (5th June, 12:15 am IST)
Final Details
The final of the UEFA Nations League will take place on the 8th of June, 2025.
Spain vs Netherlands UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 2nd leg LIVE Updates: Spain goes to semis in penalty shootout
Catch the live updates, news, scores and free commentary of the Spain vs Netherlands UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 2nd leg match tonight at the Mestalla Stadium, Valencia, Spain.
Hello and welcome to another big night of international football. Tonight, we will be covering three out of four UEFA Nations League 2025 quarterfinals.
This is Koushik Biswas, with the buildup, news, LIVE updates, scores and free commentary of the Spain vs Netherlands UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-final 2nd Leg match.
Tonight, these two footballing powerhouses will meet again to ensure the semi-final place in the tournament. So, sit back and relax as we bring you everything on the Spain vs Netherlands match from the web desk.
Enjoy the coverage and don't forget to refresh the page timely to get the latest updates.
LIVE Updates
Mar 23, 2025, 7:59 PM
LIVE Score
Mar 23, 2025, 10:47 PM
Final verdict!
It is really sad that one of these two teams will not be going to the semifinals after such an extraordinary performance.
If you are a neutral fan, it was an epic night for you. But if you're a fan or from Netherlands and Spain, it was a night of heartbreaks and wins.
Spain kept on getting the leads, but Netherlands continued to fight back and equalize. In the end, it was the penalties that differentiated the two teams.
Unai Simon was the hero for Spain as he made an important save in the sudden death.
It has been a really long night, and I hope you have enjoyed every bit of this coverage. This is Koushik Biswas, signing off. Good night, and take care.
— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) March 23, 2025
Mar 23, 2025, 9:48 PM
96' | Netherlands looking good
The Netherlands are working hard to keep as many Spanish players pinned back as they can. Koeman has deployed two wingers, one central striker, and two players supporting Depay, aiming to create a five-versus-four advantage whenever feasible. It’s a bold, high-stakes strategy with big potential payoffs.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:45 PM
94' | Mingueza is replaced
Mingueza is injured and has been replaced by Pedro Porro.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:42 PM
First half of extra time starts
The first half of extra time starts.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:37 PM
We move to extra time!
90 minutes could not separate the teams.
It is 2-2 in the second leg and 4-4 on aggregate.
We are heading to extra time.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:36 PM
90+3' | Two blocks from Dutch defenders
Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams's back-to-back shots were blocked by Dutch defenders.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:35 PM
90+1' | Save from Verbruggen
Nico Williams did not get the connection he was looking for and Verbruggen makes an easy save.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:34 PM
3 minutes added
3 minutes added to the full time.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:33 PM
90' | Save from Simon
That was an important save from Simon.
Depay from close range nearly gave Netherlands the winner.
Mar 23, 2025, 9:31 PM
What is happening in other game?
72' | Ronaldo equalises for Portugal 76' | Eriksen gives Denmark the lead
Chance for Kluivert, probably their best of the night. But, his shot was saved by Unai Simon.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:50 PM
46' | Interception from De Jong
Chance for Dani Olmo to score, but his club teammate De Jong came sliding to make the interception.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:49 PM
46' | Second half starts
No changes from either team.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:33 PM
Half-time | Spain 1-0 Netherlands
Spain head to the tunnel with a 1-0 lead over the Netherlands via a penalty scored by Oyarzabal
Mar 23, 2025, 8:32 PM
45' | 1 minute added
1 minute added as injury time.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:31 PM
44' | Fans chant Cucurella's name!
Cucurella wins the battle with Frimpong, who received a cross from Depay.
The defensive win led Spanish fans to chant the name of Cucurella. You already know his song!
Mar 23, 2025, 8:28 PM
40' | Mingueza has been proactive for Spain so far
In the last two occasions, the defender was able to go front and provide through balls for Lamine Yamal and Oyarzabal. Spain are looking for their second for the end of the first half.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:25 PM
38' | Warning for Depay
Depay gets a verbal warning from the referee for a foul on Le Normand. But, no cards so far.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:22 PM
35' | Save from Simon
Unai Simon makes his first save of the night as Geertruida makes an effort from outside the box. It went straight to the Spainsh goalkeeper.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:21 PM
34' | Netherlands growing in confidence
In the last few minutes, the Netherlands made three entries to the final third.
This time, they won their first corner as Gakpo's shot was deflected away by Cucurella.
— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) March 23, 2025
Mar 23, 2025, 8:17 PM
30' | ICYMI: Oyarzabal scored from the penalty spot
Mar 23, 2025, 8:14 PM
26' | Nico and Yamal on the flank doing wonders
Just like Euro 2024, Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal have been phenomenal on the flanks for Spain.
In the middle Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo and Oyarzabal have been constant threat as well.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:11 PM
24' | Save from Verbruggen
Another solid save from Verbruggen.
Oyarzabal found Nico on the right, and Verbruggen saved Nico's shot.
However, Oyarzabal was offside leading to the attack.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:10 PM
23' | Kluivert misses the target
Kluivert goes for the goal from outside the box. He was hoping that the ball would come down but it kept on going up.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:06 PM
20' | Verbruggen makes another save
Spain have been controlling the game so far.
Lamine Yamal, on the right, waited for a long time before ppooing up the ball for Fabian Ruiz on the left.
Ruiz went for a volley, but Verbruggen was there to make the save.
Mar 23, 2025, 8:02 PM
15' | Reijnders with a volley
Reijnders has the first chance of the night for Netherlands.
He went for a volley inside the box from a pass by Maatsen
Mar 23, 2025, 8:00 PM
13' | Top save from Verbruggen
Nico Williams has an open chance to score from the right. He found a great pass from Huijsen, who kept on running with the ball from the defensive area and then passed it to Nico.
Verbruggen came to rescue the Netherlands.
Mar 23, 2025, 7:58 PM
11' | Goal but offside
For a moment, it looked like Oyarzabal had his brace.
But he was offside there. Just by a bit.
Lamine Yamal with the side of the boot pass for Oyarzabal to go one-on-one with Verbruggen.
Mar 23, 2025, 7:55 PM
8' | Goal for Spain | ESP 1-0 NED (3-2 agg)
Oyarzabal goes low, hard and to the left. He hits the back of the net with ease.
Spain take the lead.
Spain 0-1 Netherlands (3-2 on aggregate)
Mar 23, 2025, 7:54 PM
7' | Penalty for Spain
Van Hecke tackled and brought down Oyarzabal inside the box. It is a penalty for the home side.
Mar 23, 2025, 7:53 PM
3' | Keep an eye on Huijsen
Huijsen, who was born in the Netherlands, made his debut in the first leg and did excedelingly well.
This is his first start for Spain. He has replaced the injured Casado.
— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) March 23, 2025
Mar 23, 2025, 7:19 PM
Lineups: Netherlands
Starting XI: B. Verbruggen, L. Geertruida, J. P. van Hecke, V. van Dijk (capt), I. Maatsen, T. Reijnders, F. de Jong, J. Kluivert, J. Frimpong, M. Depay, C. Gakpo.
Subs: Nick Olij, Mark Flekken, Matthijs de Ligt, Youri Baas, Xavi Simons, Teun Koopmeiners, Kenneth Taylor, Mats Wieffer, Brian Brobbey, Noa Lang, Donyell Malen.
Mar 23, 2025, 7:17 PM
Lineups: Spain
Starting XI: U. Simón (capt), Ó. Mingueza, R. Le Normand, D. Huijsen, M. Cucurella, D. Olmo, M. Zubimendi, F. Ruiz, L. Yamal, M. Oyarzabal, N. Williams.
Subs: David Raya, Álex Remiro, Pedro Porro, Raúl Asencio, Alejandro Grimaldo, Mikel Merino, Aleix García, Alejandro Baena, Pedri, Álvaro Morata, Samuel Aghehowa, Ferran Torres.
Mar 23, 2025, 3:47 PM
First leg story | Netherlands 2-2 Spain
Not many people saw this coming—hardly anyone pegged the Dutch to come out on top before the match kicked off. However, Koeman’s men came so close to earning every bit of a well-deserved victory.
They started off a little wobbly, sure, but soon found their rhythm, moving the ball with confidence. Gakpo and Frimpong were electric out wide, constantly throwing the Spanish defense off balance, while the backline held strong—almost to the very end—until Merino slipped one through.
Mar 23, 2025, 3:47 PM
Team News | Netherlands
Jorrel Hato received a red card during the first-leg game, and will be suspended for the game night. Ian Maatsen has been called up for the Dutches. However, Jurrien Timber will also be sidelined due to illness.
Mar 23, 2025, 3:46 PM
Team News | Spain
Center-back Pau Cubarsi was forced off in the last stages of the first leg encounter, as he has withdrawn from the squad and will be unavailable for tonight. Rest of the squad will be available for selection.
Mar 23, 2025, 3:35 PM
The venue | Mestalla Stadium
Mar 23, 2025, 3:34 PM
How to watch the match?
Football fans from India can watch the Spain vs Netherlands UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 2nd leg match LIVE on Sony Ten 3 TV Channel on Television and the Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Mar 23, 2025, 3:30 PM
Match Details
Match: Spain vs Netherlands
Tournament: UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 2nd leg
Netherlands vs Spain UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 1st leg: Merino's injury time goal helps Sapin draw 2-2 against 10 men Dutch team
Read the Netherlands vs Spain UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 1st leg highlights as Mikel Merino's injury time goal helped Spain draw 2-2 against Netherlands.
Hello and welcome to another big night of international football. Tonight, we will be covering three out of four UEFA Nations League 2025 quarterfinals.
This is Koushik Biswas, with the buildup, news, LIVE updates, scores and free commentary of the Netherlands vs Spain UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-final 1st Leg match.
In the last six games, the Dutch team have been undefeated but only won two of those six games. In the meantime, the EURO 2024 Champions, Spain, have not lost a single game since lifting the title and have won five out of six games in the UEFA Nations League.
So, this sets up to be a thrilling counter between two proud footballing nations. Therefore, sit back and relax as we bring you everything on the Netherlands vs Spain match from the web desk.
Enjoy the coverage.
LIVE Updates
Mar 20, 2025, 10:36 PM
Final Verdict
Not many people saw this coming—hardly anyone pegged the Dutch to come out on top before the match kicked off. However, Koeman’s men came so close to earning every bit of a well-deserved victory.
They started off a little wobbly, sure, but soon found their rhythm, moving the ball with confidence. Gakpo and Frimpong were electric out wide, constantly throwing the Spanish defense off balance, while the backline held strong—almost to the very end—until Merino slipped one through.
What a ride it’s been! That’s all from us on this live blog—thanks for sticking with us through every twist and turn. Good night. See you on Sunday for the second leg.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:42 PM
Full-time | NED 2-2 ESP
An injury time equaliser from substitute Mikel Merino helps Spain extend their undefeated run to 22 games now.
We move to the second leg with everything at square.
A 93rd-minute equaliser from Mikel Merino helps Spain hold on to a 2-2 draw against the Netherlands!
Nico Williams with a shot from the left, and Verbruggen made only a half save.
Merino was at the right place to take advantage of the rebound ball.
Big, big goal!
NED 2-2 ESP
Mar 20, 2025, 9:37 PM
90+1' | Change for Netherlands
Reijnders is replaced by Wieffer.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:36 PM
90' | 5 minutes added
5 minutes have been added as injury time.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:34 PM
89' | Huijsen takes a chance
Huijsen takes a chance with a long range left-footed shot.
He was on-target but Verbruggen dived to his left to make the save.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:34 PM
88' | Van Dijk makes a block
Oyarzabal with a volley from close range but Van Dijk was there to make the save.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:32 PM
86' | Save from Verbruggen
Top-class save from Verbruggen. Huijsen found Nico making a run. Nico then went inside the box and sent a curling shot.
Verbruggen had to dive to his left to make the save.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:29 PM
84' | Change for Spain
Final change for Spain. Merino replaces Ruiz.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:28 PM
84' | Change for Netherlands
Depay is replaced by De Ligt.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:27 PM
82' | Direct red card for Hato
A straight red card for Hato for a dangerous challenge on Le Normand.
The Netherlands are down to 10 men.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:24 PM
79' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Virgil Van Dijk for a foul inside the box during the corner.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:23 PM
77' | Le Normand with a great interception
Xavi Simons was running away with the ball and made an effort at the goal. But, Le Normand came running from behind to let it go for a corner.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:23 PM
76' | Chance for NIco
Chance for Nico Williams but he could not hold on to the ball with his first touch.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:19 PM
73' | Changes for Netherlands
Out: FDJ, Kluivert
In: Koopmeiners, Simons
Mar 20, 2025, 9:18 PM
72' | Yellow card
Yellow card for Perez for a sliding tackle on Frimpong. He will miss the second leg.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:17 PM
72' | Save from Verbruggen
A deflection from Van Dink was going into the goal and Verbruggen dived to his left to make the save.
Mar 20, 2025, 9:16 PM
HE MAKES THEM COUNT
4 - Tijjani Reijnders is the first player in history to put @OnsOranje in front with each of his first-ever four goals for the Netherlands. Advantage. pic.twitter.com/oDcsZ5cRBe
Frimpong did all the running for him, and his cutback found a running Reijnders, who made no mistake inside the box.
Netherlands have the lead.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:51 PM
Second half starts!
We are back from the break.
Spain starts things off!
Mar 20, 2025, 8:36 PM
Half-time | NED 1-1 ESP
Spain started the game like the Champions of Europe and Nico Williams gave them the lead. But, since then, Netherlands have attacked like a team on a mission.
Gakpo found the equaliser, and they could have had a few more if Simon was not there.
Cubarsi had to leave the field due to injury, and Dean Huijsen replaced him.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:33 PM
45' | Two minutes added
Two minutes added to the first-half as Lamine Yamal miss-hit the free-kick.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:32 PM
45' | Yellow card
Free-kick for Spain from a dangerous position as Gakpo pushed Pedro Porro down. Yellow card for him.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:29 PM
42' | Reijnders hits the crossbar
Frimpong, with the corss and Reijnders, went for the side volley and kissed the crossbar with his effort.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:28 PM
41' | Dean Huijsen makes his debut
Dean Huijsen, who was born in the Netherlands, makes his international debut in the Netherlands, against Netherlands.
He replaces Cubarsi.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:27 PM
39' | Cubarsi is down
He was limping for a bit, and now he is down. He is getting medial attention and will be replaced.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:26 PM
39' | Cucurella gets a verbal warning
It is not a yellow card for the defender but he gets a verbal warning from the referee for a foul on Frimpong
Mar 20, 2025, 8:23 PM
36' | Simon makes a save
Huge save!
Simon made himself big as Depay had the chance to extend the lead for them from close range.
Chance missed for the home side.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:22 PM
35' | Save from Verbruggen
Lamine Yamal with an outside-the-boot flick pass from Zubimendi. Zubimendi went for the volley, and Verbruggen had to go down to his side quickly to make the save.
Netherlands are putting their feet on the accelerator.
Gakpo with a menacing cross and Simon had to be quick to get a touch to it to nuilfy the attack.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:16 PM
28' | Gakpo strikes | NED 1-1 ESP
The Dutch are level, and the fans are just over the moon!
Gakpo strikes for them.
Frimpong had a great run to keep the ball in play and then pass it across. After a poor clearance from Cubarsi, Kluivert found Gakpo at the edge of the box.
The Liverpool striker did not miss the chance with a bullet strike.
All square now.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:12 PM
24' | Sapin defenders have been solid
Cucurella, Cubarsi, and Le Normand have been solid so far, not letting Dutch strikers have any space in the final third.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:10 PM
21' | Chance for Van Dijk
The Dutch captain had the chance to score after Hato brought down the corner so that he could go for the goal.
But, he was not on target,
Mar 20, 2025, 8:08 PM
20' | First corner of the match
First corner of the match goes to Netherlands.
Le Normand went for a hard tackle against Gakpo and he conceded the corner.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:06 PM
19' | Morata should have scored here
Porro with a long cross from Nico, and then Cucurella sent a lobbed ball for Moraata to hit the net.
But, he missed the chance.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:05 PM
15' | Cucurella has been excellent for Spain so far
The Chelsea defender makes another block inside the box to eliminate any chances for Netherlands.
Mar 20, 2025, 8:01 PM
12' | Long way to go though
With early goals, teams always get the chance to make a comeback.
Netherlands, with the support behind them, will look to do the same.
Gakpo nearly found Frimpong inside the box. But Cucurella came from behind to make the interception and it was an easy save for Simon.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:57 PM
9' | Nico Williams scores | NED 0-1 ESP
Nico Williams scores for Spain.
Great pressing from Lamine Yamal, who took the ball away from Hato, and the Pedri passed it across Nico for him to make a quick turn and send it past Verbruggen.
Spain take the lead.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:55 PM
7' | Spain controlling the game
Spain are looking in control with central defenders and mid-fielders enjoying more possession on the ball.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:54 PM
That special header!
Fans celebrate Van Persie’s legendary diving header against Spain in the 2014 World Cup.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:51 PM
LIVE Score
Mar 20, 2025, 7:51 PM
3' | Gakpo misses the target
Netherlands with their first attack of the night.
After a swap of play from right to left, Gakpo took a chance with a long range shot.
He was off-target, though.
Mar 20, 2025, 7:50 PM
2' | Pedri makes an effort at the goal
Within the first two minutes, we have Spain making an attack.
Starting XI: Unai Simón, Pedro Porro, Robin Le Normand, Pau Cubarsí, Marc Cucurella, Pedri, Martín Zubimendi, Fabián Ruiz, Lamine Yamal, Álvaro Morata (c), Nico Williams.
Subs: David Raya, Álex Remiro, Dean Huijsen, Alejandro Grimaldo, Mikel Merino, Dani Olmo, Óscar Mingueza, Aleix García, Alejandro Baena, Ayoze Pérez, Samuel Aghehowa, Mikel Oyarzabal.
Mar 20, 2025, 6:50 PM
Lineups | Netherlands
Starting XI: B. Verbruggen, L. Geertruida, J. P. van Hecke, V. van Dijk, J. Hato, F. de Jong, T. Reijnders, J. Frimpong, J. Kluivert, C. Gakpo, M. Depay.
Subs: Nick Olij, Mark Flekken, Matthijs de Ligt, Youri Baas, Kenneth Taylor, Mats Wieffer, Xavi Simons, Teun Koopmeiners, Noa Lang, Donyell Malen, Brian Brobbey.
Mar 20, 2025, 6:20 PM
Recent form | Netherlands
Date
Home Team
Score
Away Team
Result
20 Nov 24
Bosnia and Herzegovina
1 - 1
Netherlands
D
17 Nov 24
Netherlands
4 - 0
Hungary
W
15 Oct 24
Germany
1 - 0
Netherlands
L
12 Oct 24
Hungary
1 - 1
Netherlands
D
11 Sept 24
Netherlands
2 - 2
Germany
D
Goals Scored (Conceded)
8 / 5
Games over 2.5 goals
2 / 5
Mar 20, 2025, 6:18 PM
Recent form | Spain
Date
Home Team
Score
Away Team
Result
19 Nov 24
Spain
3 - 2
Switzerland
W
16 Nov 24
Denmark
1 - 2
Spain
W
16 Oct 24
Spain
3 - 0
Serbia
W
13 Oct 24
Spain
1 - 0
Denmark
W
9 Sept 24
Switzerland
1 - 4
Spain
W
Goals Scored (Conceded)
13 / 4
Games over 2.5 goals
4 / 5
Mar 20, 2025, 6:08 PM
Netherlands Squad
Goalkeepers: Bart Verbruggen, Nick Olij, Mark Flekken,
Defenders: Lutsharel Geertruida, Jurriën Timber, Virgil van Dijk, Jorrel Hato, Jan Paul van Hecke, Jeremie Frimpong, Matthijs de Ligt, Youri Baas,
Football fans from India can watch the Netherlands vs Spain UEFA Nations League 2025 Quarter-finals 1st leg match LIVE on Sony Ten 3 TV Channel on Television and Sony LIV app and website with a paid subscription.
Mar 20, 2025, 2:49 PM
Tonight's Venue | De Kuip
Mar 20, 2025, 2:48 PM
Match Details
Match: Netherlands vs Spain
Tournament: UEFA Nations League 2025 quarter-finals, 1st Leg
Football Wonderkids: Is Lamine Yamal the best 17-year-old footballer ever?
Lamine Yamal has again broke into the headlines by scoring an injury-time winner for Barcelona against Atletico Madrid last night. Is he already the best 17-year-old footballer ever?
The 17-year-old Spanish forward scored a winner for Barcelona in the second minute of injury time to hand a crucial three points to the Catalan giants.
AURA.
17 year-old Lamine Yamal doing things that only legends have done in their prime!
At the age of 17, Lamine Yamal already holds some prestigious silverware, team achievements, and personal accolades. Compared to the renowned footballers who stormed into the headlines while being at the age of 17, Lamine has been showing immense potential day in and out for FC Barcelona and Spain.
Convincingly, Lamine is frequently compared to the footballers who started to prove their potential at the young age of 17, footballers who went on to be all-time greats such as Cristiano Ronaldo, Lionel Messi, or Neymar Jr.
This article delves into the discourse of whether Lamine Yamal is the best 17-year-old footballer ever.
Lamine Yamal: Compared to the greatests of the game
(Image Credit | Givemesport)
When compared to the greatests to ever grace football, Lamine Yamal possesses some outstanding numbers and accolades than Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo when they were aged 17.
According to FOX Sports, here are his stats compared to Messi and Ronaldo's by their age 17 seasons, accounting till March 17, 2025.
So, by the age 17 season, Lamine Yamal has already overtaken Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo in terms of stats and importance in the first-team squad for their respective clubs.
Lamine's international career is even more impressive, whereas Messi and Ronaldo both got their national call-ups at the age of 18. On the contrary, Lamine has already won the Euros with Spain at the age of 16, proving himself crucial for the senior Spanish national football team as well.
Here are Lamine's personal and team achievements in Club football for Barcelona so far:
(Image Credit | GettyImages)
LaLiga Champion 2022-23
Supercopa De Espana Champion 2025
La Liga U23 Player of the Season 2023-24
Golden Boy 2024
Kopa Trophy 2024
IFFHS World's Best Men's Youth (U20) Player 2024
Globe Soccer Award Emerging Player 2024
Here are the personal and team achievements of Lamine for Spain:
(Image Credit | GettyImages)
UEFA Euro 2024 Champion
EuroYoung Player of the Tournament 2024
UEFA Euro 2024 top assist provider 2024 (4 assists)
UEFA European Under-17 Championship top scorer 2023 (4 goals)
Along with the numbers and accolades, Lamine already holds some breathtaking records to his name, which can be felt unbelievable considering his age.
Here are the major records the Barcelona youngster is currently holding:
Record Set
Age at Time of Record
Date
Opponent
Youngest Player to Start a La Liga Game in the 21st Century
16 years and 38 days
20/08/2023
Cadiz
Youngest Player to Provide a La Liga Assist in the 21st Century
16 years and 45 days
27/08/2023
Villarreal
Youngest Debutant and Scorer for Spain
16 years and 57 days
08/09/2023
Georgia
Youngest Barcelona Debutant in the Champions League
16 years and 68 days
19/09/2023
Royal Antwerp
Youngest Champions League Starter
16 years and 83 days
04/10/2023
Porto
Youngest La Liga (and Barcelona) Goalscorer
16 years and 87 days
08/10/2023
Granada
Youngest player to score a brace in La Liga
16 years and 213 days
12/02/2024
Granada
Youngest Player to Play in El Clasico
16 years and 107 days
28/10/2023
Real Madrid
Youngest Assist Provider in the Champions League
16 years and 153 days
13/12/2023
Royal Antwerp
Youngest Player to Make 50 Appearances for Barcelona
16 years and 311 days
19/05/2024
Rayo Vallecano
Youngest Assist Provider and Goalscorer in the Euros
16 years and 339 days, 16 years and 362 days
15/06/2024 and 09/07/2024
Croatia and France
Youngest Winner Of, and Player In, a Euros Final
17 years and 1 day
14/07/2024
England
Youngest El Clasico Goalscorer
17 years and 105 days
26/10/2024
Real Madrid
Youngest player to score in Copa del Rey
16 years and 195 days
25/01/2024
Athletic Bilbao
Youngest player to score in Spanish Super Cup
16 years and 182 days
12/01/2024
Osasuna
Youngest player to score and assist in a single Champions League match
17 years 241 days
12/03/2025
Benfica
There are plenty of other achievements in different awards, and nominations that Lamine has earned by this age.
To add more context, at the age of 17, Neymar Jr. was taking Brazil by storm while playing for Santos; whereas Kylian Mbappe just emerged as a generational talent while playing for Monaco.
Conclusion
(Image Source | X)
Whenever Lamine Yamal steps onto the pitch, he definitely plays like one of the best footballers in the world. This is no longer an exaggerated claim that Yamal played a crucial role in helping Barcelona reach the Champions League quarterfinals this season.
Lamine has consistently performed at a high level for over a year now. He showcased his talent at the Euros and has made an impact all across Spain. Since February 2024, he has contributed to 45 goals for both club and country. Remember, he is only 17!
His trajectory resembles that of Lionel Messi. However, this doesn't guarantee that he will equal Messi's achievements because football careers are rarely linear and injuries can inflict challenges. Still, it isn't far-fetched to say that he has the potential to enter the club of all-time greats at the oblivion of his career.
Convincingly, Lamine Yamal has already established himself as the best 17-year-old footballer in history. Barcelona fans are seemingly very optimistic about his future and look forward to a remarkable career ahead for this young talent.
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