Nations League
Nations League: Kane dazzles Tuchel, Spain averts point loss
On the final day of the first Nations League phase, England under manager Thomas Tuchel celebrated a clear victory, while Spain on the same evening averted a looming point loss. The English national team, the “Three Lions”, won at home against the Czech Republic with three goals, with Harry Kane at the centre.
England dominates against the Czech Republic
Vladimir Coufal diverted in the 27th minute a cross from Harry Kane into his own net, putting England ahead. Kane doubled the lead in the 40th minute and scored again in the 57th, so the “Three Lions” finished the match with three goals. Kane had already previously scored twice against Croatia.
The 33-year-old striker played his 125th international match, reaching the same number as legendary goalkeeper Peter Shilton. With 91 goals, he is also England’s most prolific scorer.
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In the parallel match, former Dortmund player Mikel Merino scored two goals for the reigning world champions Spain (61st and 88th minute), securing a narrow 2-1 win over Croatia.
Thus Spain remains top of Group A3 and has not lost in 42 games, while England, as the primary challenger, sits in second place.
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The comparison shows that England’s attacking strength under Tuchel yields clear successes, whereas Spain’s defensive solidity merely secures points – an indication of different paths to success in the Nations League.