New Delhi: Spain’s first outing as European Champions in the Nations League ended in frustration as they were held to a 0-0 draw by Serbia in Belgrade. Despite controlling most of the game, Luis de la Fuente’s side couldn’t break through a resolute Serbian defence and goalkeeper, Predrag Rajkovic. Serbia, making their debut in the top tier of the Nations League after securing promotion two years ago, began the match with a strong defensive performance.
They nearly took the lead in the 34th minute when Andrija Zivkovic delivered a perfectly timed pass behind the Spanish defence for Luka Jovic. With only David Raya to beat, Jovic missed the target, sending his shot wide of the left post. This missed opportunity was a significant moment in the match.
Spain dominated possession and created numerous chances, particularly in the second half. Barcelona’s Lamine Yamal was a standout player, coming close twice but failing to find the back of the net. His first attempt was a curling shot that went just wide of the post. Moments later, Rajkovic produced a crucial save, denying Yamal’s second effort with a strong hand.
Spain dominated the match but couldn’t penetrate through Serbia 🇷🇸
Tight defense from Serbia against Spain. 🇪🇸 pic.twitter.com/xtbziGsrD6
— J a s p e r (@blackson_jasper) September 5, 2024
Dani Carvajal also had a chance early in the second half, but his volley sailed over the bar. As the match progressed, Spain pushed harder for a breakthrough. Alejandro Grimaldo took a dipping free-kick that Rajkovic managed to the ball push away from the top-right corner. Despite Spain’s efforts, including a final chance from Yamal that Rajkovic also saved, they couldn’t convert their dominance into goals.
The match was marked by its intensity, particularly in the first half, which saw five yellow cards handed out and 14 shots taken, with Spain contributing nine of those. Ayoze Perez had Spain’s best chance before the break, but Rajkovic’s save kept the scoreline level. On the other end, Jovic’s missed opportunity highlighted the game’s few moments of Serbian danger.
With Denmark’s 2-0 victory over Switzerland in the other group match, Spain currently sits second in Group A4 with one point. Having entered the game on a nine-match winning streak, Spain will need to improve their finishing in upcoming matches to maintain their bid for another Nations League title.
Spain took 22 shots but couldn’t score, with Serbia’s Predrag Rajkovic making important saves to keep the game goalless Football Sports News: Latest Cricket News, Cricket Live Score, Sports Breaking News from Sports Today
