Netherlands and Spain played a 2-2 draw in the first leg of the Nations League quarter-final, as Mikel Merino rescues La Roja.
Merino scored a stoppage-time equaliser as Spain salvaged a draw, despite scoring first against the Dutch.
The defending champions got the night running with the opening goal, after Nico William scored in the 9th minute. The Athletic Bilbao attacker drilled a shot under Verbruggen, following good work from Lamine Yamal and Pedri, with the latter providing the assist.
The visitors almost had their second few minutes after, but Alvaro Morata could only send his header wide.
The hosts got back into the game when Cody Gakpo stroked a first-time finish inside the near post to make it 1-1.
Netherlands took control of the game and should have led by half-time. Unai Simon made a reflex save to deny Memphis Depay, then Tijjani Reijnders grazed the top of the crossbar with a volley.
The Dutch side took the lead with only 39 seconds into the second half. Reijnders guided Jeremie Frimpong’s cutback home from 18 yards out to put Netherlands ahead.
Spain’s search for the equaliser beamed with light Jorrel Hato caught Robin Le Normand on the ankle with his studs. The Ajax defender was handed a straight red card with nine minutes to play.
The tournament holders made the deficit count as they made it 2-2 in the stoppage time, courtesy of Verbruggen’s error. The Brighton goalkeeper fumbled with Williams’ shot, spilling it straight to Merino, who gleefully tucked home.
Both sides will fight for a spot in the semi finals, when Netherlands travels to Spain on Sunday.
© Copyrights Sixsports. All Rights Reserved.
