Spain 1-2: Switzerland: Manuel Akanji and Breel Embolo produce Nations League upset in Zaragoza

Spain have fallen to a shock 2-1 defeat at home to Switzerland to surrender UEFA Nations League Group A2 lead. Manuel Akanji gave the visitors a shock lead on 21 minutes, dominating Cesar Azpilicueta physically at a corner before heading down and out of the reach of Unai Simon. Ad Spain, playing with Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio as their central attacker, dominated the midfield and the flanks, but had no presence in the Swiss box.

UEFA Nations LeagueSoler and Sarabia fire Spain to win over Czech Republic in Nations League12/06/2022 AT 18:10 The home side virtually monopolised possession for long spells, but could do little with it. The Swiss had just 31% possession but finished with more shots, more shots on target, more corners and more offsides. Switzerland pressed selectively, not over-committing in defence, as they effectively stifled Spain.

Asensio made Spain’s equaliser with a sensational run early in the second half, drawing the entire Swiss defence out of position before rolling a pass into the path of Jordi Alba who could not miss. Switzerland were back in front just four minutes later though, as the impressive Akanji turned provider, flicking on a corner for Breel Embolo to score. The goal was eventually awarded as an own goal against Eric Garcia.

Five second-half substitutions from Spain did little to change the nature of the game as the Swiss continued to pack the box and mute the home side’s attack. Switzerland had never before beaten Spain in Spain, and only beaten them once before in any meeting — that the famous 2010 World Cup group stage clash — but they were well worth their victory against their toothless hosts. More to follow UEFA Nations LeagueSwitzerland stun Portugal in Nations League thanks to