Reigning European champions Spain showcased their resilience and attacking prowess, comprehensively defeating Switzerland 4-1 in their UEFA Nations League Group A4 match on Sunday. The victory was all the more impressive as Spain played with 10 men for 70 minutes following a red card.
In rainy conditions at Stade de Genève, Spain’s Fabian Ruiz starred with a brace, leading his team to a convincing win that extends their competitive unbeaten run to 17 matches.
The match began with Switzerland, under coach Murat Yakin, pushing forward after a disappointing loss to Denmark. However, Spain’s attack quickly overshadowed the hosts’ early efforts.
Just four minutes in, Spanish prodigy Lamine Yamal outpaced Remo Freuler to deliver a chip to the far post, where Joselu headed home despite Swiss goalkeeper Gregor Kobel’s acrobatic attempt to save.
Switzerland appeared to equalize moments later through Becir Omeragic, but the goal was disallowed for a handball in the build-up.
Spain doubled their lead when Yamal, again instrumental, won possession and fed Nico Williams. Though Williams’ shot was saved, Fabian Ruiz, key to Spain’s recent European triumph, netted the rebound.
The game’s dynamics shifted dramatically when Spain’s Robin Le Normand received a straight red card for fouling Breel Embolo as the last defender. Switzerland capitalized on the man advantage, with Zeki Amdouni hitting the crossbar from the resulting free-kick before later halving the deficit, tapping in after an Embolo header from a corner.
Despite Switzerland’s increased possession in the second half, Spain’s 10 men remarkably extended their lead. David Raya’s long ball found Ferran Torres, whose cross was met by Ruiz for his second goal. Moments later, Joselu’s through ball set up Torres to score Spain’s fourth, sealing the victory.
This result puts Spain back on track as favorites to retain their UEFA Nations League title. For Switzerland, the defeat raises questions about their defensive vulnerabilities despite playing against 10 men for much of the match.
Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente will be particularly pleased with his team’s ability to overcome the numerical disadvantage and maintain their attacking threat throughout the game.
