UEFA Nations League
Result: England 1-2 Spain
Date: 08 September 2018
Venue: Wembley Stadium
Luis Enrique got off to a perfect start as manager of Spain, as his charges came from behind to register a 2-1 win over England in a UEFA Nations League clash at Wembley Stadium.
Gareth Southgate handed starts to Marcus Rashford in the attack as Raheem Sterling missed out through injury, while there was also a start for defenders Luke Shaw and Joe Gomez.
Rashford wasted no time in making his mark when he put England ahead on 10 minutes, turning home a superb cross from Shaw.
England's joy was short-lived as La Roja hit back two minutes later, as Rodrigo surged into the box before picking out Saul Niguez, who sent a fine low strike past Jordan Pickford.
The turnaround was complete for Spain on 31 minutes as Rodrigo turned home Thiago Alacantara's in-swinging free-kick at the near post.
The hosts pushed for a way back into the clash, but they were unable to bypass David De Gea, who produced a fine save to keep out Rashford's header.
The second half got off to a sour start as Shaw had to be stretchered off after taking a knock to the head in a collision with Dani Carvajal. He was replaced by Danny Rose.
After a slow start to the second stanza, both coaches opted for changes as England threw on Eric Dier for Jordan Henderson, while Marcos Asesnio replaced Iago Aspas for the visitors.
Rashford should have levelled matters in the 81st minute after combining with Harry Kane, but the England forward could only fire straight at De Gea from close range.
Substitute Danny Welbeck had the ball in the back of the net six minutes into stoppage time. However, the strike was ruled out for a foul on De Gea as Spain hung on to claim three points.
England will now face World Cup runners-up Croatia in their next UEFA Nations League clash on Tuesday.
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