Spain and Portugal share spoils in Nations League

SEVILLE, Spain : Goals by strikers Alvaro Morata and Ricardo Horta led to a 1-1 draw between Spain and Portugal in their Nations League opener at Estadio Benito Villamarin on Thursday.

Morata put Spain ahead from close range in the League A Group Two match following a fine passing movement involving midfielders Gavi and Pablo Sarabia in the 25th minute.

Substitute Horta equalised for Portugal eight minutes from time, leaving the Spanish defence behind as he latched on to a precise cross from defender Joao Cancelo inside the area and placed a shot into the middle of Unai Simon's goal.

It was the fourth consecutive draw in games between Spain, runners-up in the last Nations League, and Portugal, champions in its inaugural edition. Their last two friendly meetings finished goalless.