VALENCIA, Spain: Defending Nations League champions Spain qualified for the semi-finals after winning 5-4 on penalties against the Netherlands, after the second quarter-final early this morning ended 3-3 and 5-5 on aggregate.
Donyell Malen missed a penalty and Barcelona’s Pedri converted the winning spot-kick in a thrilling encounter in which the Netherlands fought back three times to force a penalty shootout.
“Having extra time and penalties makes it even more epic, it’s a great match for the fans to watch,” said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente.
Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain but Memphis Depay equalised from the penalty spot.
Oyarzabal then grabbed Spain’s second goal before Ian Maatsen fired a powerful shot to force extra time.
Barcelona youngster Lamine Yamal, who also missed the penalty, scored a brilliant goal to put Spain ahead but Xavi Simons converted another penalty to force a shootout.
“It’s really nice to wear this jersey and to be able to score the winning penalty,” Pedri told TVE, whose team faces France in the semi-finals.
“We are Spanish and we are not afraid of anyone,” said Pedri.
After Spain struggled in Rotterdam last week when they drew 2-2 in the first leg, De La Fuente made several changes.
Oyarzabal and Dani Olmo came on for Alvaro Morata and Pedri, while Dean Huijsen made his first start against his home country and impressed.