Spain’s defense of their UEFA Nations League title stumbled at the start, as they were held to a frustrating 0-0 draw by a resilient Serbia in Belgrade.
The match was slow to ignite, with both sides probing cautiously in the early stages. It wasn't until later in the first half that the tempo began to rise. Nico Williams unleashed a powerful strike that sailed just over the bar, while Ayoze Perez forced a sharp save from Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic.
Serbia responded with dangerous opportunities of their own. Luka Jovic squandered a close-range chance, firing wide when it seemed easier to score, and Veljko Birmancevic saw his effort blocked by a quick reflex save from David Raya.
The second half followed a familiar pattern, as Spain dominated possession and crafted a series of promising openings. However, their finishing touch deserted them inside the penalty box.
Teen sensation Lamal looked the most likely to break the deadlock, but he squandered several good opportunities. Williams and substitute Alex Grimaldo also saw their chances thwarted, as Serbia held firm, earning a hard-fought and valuable point against a wasteful Spanish side.
0 Comments