Spain overcome red card to put four past Switzerland in Nations League

The reigning European champions, Spain, delivered a commanding performance against Switzerland, securing a 4-1 victory in their UEFA Nations League (UNL) Group A4 encounter, despite being reduced to ten players for 70 minutes.

This triumph was significantly aided by a brace from Fabian Ruiz, all while the match unfolded under the rain in Geneva.

Following a disappointing loss to Denmark on Thursday, coach Murat Yakin instructed his team to adopt an aggressive approach. However, their promising start was quickly overshadowed by Spain's relentless offensive play.

In the fourth minute, the standout player Lamine Yamal skillfully evaded Remo Freuler, delivering a precise chip to Joselu at the far post, who managed to head the ball over the line despite the valiant efforts of Switzerland's new goalkeeper, Gregor Kobel.

The hosts responded swiftly, with Becir Omeragic's tap-in following a Breel Embolo effort being disallowed due to a handball in the build-up.

Yamal continued to be instrumental as Spain extended their lead. After regaining possession, he set up Nico Williams, whose shot was saved, but Fabian, who had shone during the summer as La Roja claimed victory, was on hand to score from the rebound.

While Spain appeared to be in control, the situation changed when Robin Le Normand received a straight red card for bringing down Embolo as the last defender. Zeki Amdouni then came close to scoring, hitting the crossbar from the subsequent free kick.

Switzerland began to assert their dominance, with Amdouni capitalizing on a corner to reduce the deficit by tapping in Embolo's header.

However, maintaining that momentum proved challenging as the rain continued to pour, and another Amdouni goal was disallowed shortly after the second half began.

Despite their possession during this phase, Switzerland's efforts yielded little, as Spain struck decisively with a remarkable quick-fire double, sealing the match in their favor.

Initially, David Raya executed a long pass that found Ferran Torres on the right flank, allowing him to deliver a cross into the penalty area, where Fabián was positioned to secure his second goal.

Shortly thereafter, Switzerland fell victim to another counterattack initiated by Joselu’s incisive pass, leading to Torres contributing the final touch this time.

Despite Spain facing a numerical disadvantage for a significant portion of the match, De la Fuente will be pleased that his team managed to prevail, thereby extending their unbeaten streak in competitive fixtures to 17 matches and reaffirming their status as contenders for a second consecutive UNL title.