Netherlands Held to 2-2 Draw by Spain in Nations League Quarterfinal First Leg

Netherlands and Spain played to a 2-2 draw in the first leg of their UEFA Nations League quarterfinal on March 20, 2025, at De Kuip Stadium in Rotterdam. 

Spain took an early lead in the 9th minute with a goal from Nico Williams. The Netherlands responded in the 28th minute when Cody Gakpo scored to level the match. 

Shortly after halftime, Tijjani Reijnders gave the Netherlands a 2-1 advantage. However, the dynamics shifted in the 81st minute when Dutch defender Jorrel Hato was sent off, reducing the Netherlands to ten men. Spain capitalized on the numerical advantage, and Mikel Merino scored an equalizer in stoppage time, concluding the match at 2-2. 

The second leg is scheduled for Sunday at Mestalla Stadium in Valencia, where both teams will compete for a spot in the semifinals.