England's Nations League opener against Spain saw a repeat of a recent pattern, with Thomas Tuchel's side losing control of the game around the 55-minute mark. This mirrors their World Cup semi-final in Atlanta in July, where a similar shift occurred against Argentina.
In both matches, England took a lead against World Cup finalists and played well, dominating parts of the game up until the 55-minute point. Against Spain, England were 2-1 up after being 1-0 down, with Harry Kane scoring their second goal from a penalty awarded after a VAR check for a trip on Jude Bellingham.
However, Spain equalised within five minutes of the 55-minute mark and took a 3-2 lead fourteen minutes later, which they maintained. Spain's two decisive goals were either created or scored by their attacking substitutes. Despite the loss, England's performance was considered an improvement on their match against Argentina, and they created some decent late chances.