Football

Spain held by Serbia in drab goalless draw

September 6, 2024 10:20 am

[Source: Reuters]

Euro 2024 champions Spain were held to a dour goalless away draw with Serbia in Nations League Group Four on Thursday, ending a nine-game winning streak and dropping their first points since March.

Playing their first match after a stunning European Championship campaign in which they won all seven games on route to lifting the trophy with a 2-1 victory in the final over England, Spain dominated possession but were unable to convert in 22 scoring attempts.

Missing key players like midfielder Rodri and captain Alvaro Morata due to a suspension and injured goalkeeper Unai Simon, Spain started the game slowly.

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Spain recorded only two shots on target in the first half and were lucky not to go to the break trailing as Serbia forward Luka Jokic missed a golden chance from point-blank range.

The European champions were livelier after the break, but wasted several good chances, including a close-range volley by Dani Carvajal.

Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal was one of Spain’s few bright spots as he created a handful of opportunities as the visitors lacked ideas even with 76% ball possession.

Spain and Serbia are second on one point in the standings, two points behind Denmark who beat Switzerland 2-0 on Thursday.