World champions Spain came from behind to beat England 3-2 at Wembley in a thrilling opening match of the 2026–27 UEFA Nations League.
Lamine Yamal gave Spain an early lead before Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane turned the game around for England before half-time. However, second-half goals from Álex Baena and Mikel Oyarzabal secured the points for Spain.
Spain needed less than two minutes to take the lead after Marc Guehi was dispossessed and Yamal raced through before calmly finishing past James Trafford.
England responded strongly and levelled in the 36th minute. Jude Bellingham carried the ball forward on a rapid counter-attack before finding Gordon, who kept his composure to beat Unai Simón.
The hosts then completed the turnaround four minutes later. Nico O’Reilly delivered a cross into the penalty area and Kane rose to head the ball towards goal, with a deflection off Marc Cucurella helping it find the net.
England had an opportunity to extend their advantage shortly after half-time when they were awarded a penalty following a VAR review for Rodri's challenge on Bellingham. Kane, however, slipped while taking the spot-kick and sent his effort against the crossbar.
Spain capitalised on the missed opportunity in the 60th minute. Substitute Baena collected the ball outside the area and produced a precise finish to bring the world champions level.
The visitors then completed their comeback in the 74th minute. Baena played a pass through the England defence for Oyarzabal, who lifted the ball over the advancing Trafford to give Spain a 3-2 lead.
England pushed for another equaliser but could not find a way through. Spain controlled possession more effectively in the closing stages and held on to begin their Nations League campaign with three points.
The victory also continued Oyarzabal's notable record against England. He scored the winning goal in Spain's 2-1 victory over England in the Euro 2024 final and again proved decisive at Wembley.
For England manager Thomas Tuchel, the defeat highlighted both the attacking potential of his side and the defensive problems that emerged against the reigning world champions. England's next Nations League fixture is away to the Czech Republic on September 29.