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England vs Spain: Spain chase Nations League opener win

By Drooid · Sep 26, 2026, 10:15 PM UTC · How we work

Summary

Story summary

England hosts Spain at Wembley Stadium in the UEFA Nations League opener on September 26, 2026.
Spain enter as 2023 Nations League winners and Euro 2024 champions, seeking a second league title.
England’s midfield is depleted, with Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer and Marcus Rashford ruled out through injury.
Spain have avoided regulation-time loss in 38 fixtures since a 1–0 friendly defeat to Colombia in March 2024.

History

Historical Context

In June 2008, Euro 2008 hosted by Austria and Switzerland saw Spain claim its second European title, beating Germany 1-0 in Vienna and becoming the second nation to win all group matches and the tournament undefeated. The victory launched a period of dominance that continues into the 2026 Nations League opener against England at Wembley.

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Story summary

England hosts Spain at Wembley Stadium in the UEFA Nations League opener on September 26, 2026.
Spain enter as 2023 Nations League winners and Euro 2024 champions, seeking a second league title.
England’s midfield is depleted, with Declan Rice, Kobbie Mainoo, Cole Palmer and Marcus Rashford ruled out through injury.
Spain have avoided regulation-time loss in 38 fixtures since a 1–0 friendly defeat to Colombia in March 2024.

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