Spain’s impressive nine-match winning streak came to a frustrating end on Thursday when they were held to a 0-0 draw by Serbia in their Nations League Group Four clash.
After a flawless run in Euro 2024, where they won every single match and route to lifting the trophy, Spain faced a tough challenge in Belgrade.
Their performance left fans and pundits alike scratching their heads as the European champions struggled to find the back of the net despite dominating the match.
The goalless draw saw Spain drop their first points since March, ending a string of dominant performances. Missing key players due to injuries and suspensions, their attack looked toothless as they failed to convert their superior possession into goals.
Serbia, on the other hand, put in a disciplined defensive performance and nearly snatched a win.
Spain’s Dominance in Possession but Lack of Sharpness in Attack
One of the key takeaways from the match was Spain’s complete dominance in possession. The European champions controlled 76% of the ball throughout the match, showcasing their signature style of intricate passing and high pressing. However, despite this dominance, they failed to break down Serbia’s resilient defense.
The club’s midfield, which had been a strong point during their Euro 2024 campaign, was missing the influential Rodri.
The Manchester City star was suspended, and his absence was sorely felt. Spain lacked the composure and defensive stability that Rodri brings to the middle of the park. Without him, their transitions from defense to attack were slow and predictable.
In attack, the club was without their captain and main striker, Alvaro Morata, who was sidelined due to injury. Morata had been a key figure in Spain’s European triumph, scoring crucial goals and leading the line with his intelligent movement. Without Morata, Spain’s attack seemed disjointed, and they struggled to create clear-cut chances.
Spain had 22 scoring attempts during the match but only managed to hit the target twice in the first half. This lack of efficiency in front of goal was a major issue, with several players missing golden opportunities to put the game to bed. Serbia’s defense remained compact and well-organized, frustrating Spain’s attackers.
Serbia’s Solid Defensive Performance
Serbia came into the match as underdogs, but they put in a disciplined and determined defensive display. Coach Dragan Stojković set up his team to sit deep and absorb club’s pressure, looking to hit them on the counterattack. This strategy worked to perfection, as Serbia managed to frustrate Spain for long periods of the match.
In the first half, Serbia had the best chance of the game when forward Luka Jokic found himself with a point-blank opportunity to score. However, he squandered the chance, allowing Spain to go into halftime with the scoreline still at 0-0.
Serbia’s defense, led by veteran center-back Nikola Milenković, was outstanding throughout the match. They remained disciplined, closed down spaces effectively, and prevented Spain from finding any rhythm in their attacks.
While Spain dominated possession, Serbia’s defensive shape and organization forced them to resort to long-range efforts and speculative crosses into the box.
Spain’s Second-Half Improvement
While the team struggled in the first half, they showed more intent and urgency after the break. Manager Luis de la Fuente made some tactical adjustments, and Spain looked more dangerous going forward.
Barcelona’s teenage sensation, Lamine Yamal, was one of the few bright spots for Spain as he created several opportunities with his dribbling and vision.
Yamal, who recently burst onto the scene at Barcelona, showcased his immense talent, providing a spark of creativity that was lacking from his more experienced teammates. He was involved in several of the club’s best chances, but unfortunately, his efforts didn’t result in a breakthrough.
Dani Carvajal had one of club’s best opportunities in the second half when he found himself in a great position to score from close range.
However, his volley sailed over the bar, adding to club’s frustration. Other key players, such as Gavi and Mikel Oyarzabal, were unable to make a significant impact on the game.
Despite their second-half improvement, Spain’s lack of a clinical finisher was evident. They missed Morata’s ability to hold up play and convert half-chances into goals.
As the match wore on, the team’s players appeared to tire in the scorching heat of Belgrade, and their energy levels dropped. This allowed Serbia to hold on for a valuable point.
Luis de la Fuente’s Post-Match Reactions
After the match, the club’s manager Luis de la Fuente spoke to the media and admitted that his team had struggled to reach their usual high standards.
He highlighted the absence of key players and the challenging conditions in Belgrade as contributing factors to Spain’s underwhelming performance.
“We didn’t play well in the first half, but we improved after the break. The players were tired, and the heat took a toll,” said de la Fuente. “It’s still early in the season, and we will learn from this. Missing players like Rodri and Morata made a difference, but I’m not too worried. We will come back stronger in the next game.”
De la Fuente’s calm and measured response indicates that he believes this result was more of a blip than a sign of deeper issues.
With a busy season ahead, including more Nations League fixtures and Euro 2024 qualification matches, Spain will have plenty of opportunities to bounce back.
What This Result Means for Spain’s Nations League Campaign
The 0-0 draw with Serbia leaves Spain and Serbia tied with one point each in Group Four of the Nations League. Spain will be disappointed to drop points, especially after such a strong run of form in recent months. However, this result does not significantly harm their chances of progressing in the competition.
Denmark currently tops the group with three points after a 2-0 victory over Switzerland. The club will need to win their remaining matches to ensure they finish top of the group and qualify for the Nations League finals.
With key players set to return from injury and suspension, Spain will be confident of turning things around in the upcoming fixtures.
Spain’s Upcoming Fixtures
Spain’s next match in the Nations League will be against Denmark, who lead the group. This fixture will be crucial for Spain as they look to get back to winning ways.
With Rodri and Morata expected to return, Spain will be at full strength and eager to put the disappointing draw against Serbia behind them.
In the long run, the club will also be focusing on their Euro 2024 qualification campaign. Having won the European Championship, they will be one of the favorites to qualify and defend their title in the tournament.
However, matches like the one against Serbia serve as a reminder that even the best teams can have off days.
Conclusion
The club’s goalless draw against Serbia was a frustrating result for the European champions, but it is far from a disaster.
Missing key players and playing in difficult conditions, Spain still dominated possession but lacked the cutting edge needed to secure a win. Serbia, to their credit, put in a solid defensive display and nearly snatched a victory.
As Spain looks ahead to their upcoming matches, they will need to rediscover their sharpness in attack and ensure that they take their chances.
With the return of players like Rodri and Morata, fans can expect Spain to bounce back quickly.
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