Luis De La Fuente: "It's difficult to beat a team like the Netherlands"

Spain drew 2-2 with the Netherlands and failed to win the first leg of the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals. Coach Luis De La Fuente admitted that it would be difficult to beat the Netherlands.

At the beginning of the game, Spain scored first, but was later equalized by the Netherlands. At the beginning of the second half, the Netherlands took the lead, but Mikel Merino scored in stoppage time to help Spain tie the game with the Netherlands.

In the post-match interview, De La Fuente said: "It is very difficult to beat a team like the Netherlands. This was a game of offense and defense for both sides, just as we expected before the game."

"We knew the game would come down to details and that was the case in the end. The Netherlands were a strong team but we are happy with the performance, especially after a four-month break."

"In fact, the opponent could have scored a third goal, and we also had the opportunity to score another goal through Morata's header. The second leg in Valencia will be very difficult, there is no doubt about that."

The draw extended Spain's unbeaten streak to 17 games, with 14 wins and 3 draws. This is Spain's best record since September 2018, when Spain won 18 and drew 9 in 27 games.

Although Spain performed well and achieved a draw, the Netherlands has remained unbeaten in the last four games against Spain. Therefore, De La Fuente also realized that if Spain wants to advance to the semi-finals of the UEFA Nations League, the team will face a huge challenge.