England and Spain begin their Nations League campaigns with a heavyweight meeting at Wembley. Both teams return after strong World Cup runs, but Spain arrive with the more settled side and one of the best recent records in international football.

England will look to use their home advantage and respond after missing out on the World Cup final. Spain, meanwhile, continue to set the standard with their ability to control possession and create chances through several different players.

England return after a strong World Cup

England finished third at the World Cup after losing 2–1 against Argentina in the semi-final. It was another tournament where England competed deep into the knockout stage, but once again they fell short when facing one of the strongest teams in the competition.

Returning to Wembley gives England an opportunity to start a new campaign positively. The home crowd should help them, especially during periods when Spain dominate possession.

However, England enter the match with several important players unavailable. Cole Palmer, Declan Rice, Marcus Rashford, Tino Livramento and Kobbie Mainoo have all withdrawn from the squad. James Garner and Morgan Gibbs-White were brought in as replacements.

Rice’s absence is particularly important against a Spanish midfield that is comfortable controlling matches. England may need to play more directly and look for opportunities on the counterattack rather than attempting to match Spain for possession.

Spain remain the team to beat

Spain arrive as the reigning world and European champions. Their success has been built around technical quality, patient possession and an aggressive press when they lose the ball.

The visitors also reached the previous Nations League final. Portugal eventually defeated them on penalties, but Spain once again demonstrated their ability to compete for every major international trophy.

Their recent record is exceptional. Spain have not lost a match inside 90 minutes since a 1–0 defeat against Colombia in March 2024. That consistency makes them difficult to oppose, regardless of the venue or opposition.

Spain are unlikely to change their approach at Wembley. They will look to control the midfield, move England’s defensive shape from side to side and wait for spaces to appear around the penalty area.

England could be dangerous on the counterattack

Spain should see more of the ball, but England still possess enough pace and individual quality to cause problems. Wembley is rarely an easy place for a visiting team, and England are capable of creating chances quickly when they recover possession.

The opening goal could have a significant influence on the match. If Spain score first, they should be able to control the tempo and force England to take more risks. If England take the lead, the visitors may leave additional space as they push forward.

A close match is likely, but Spain appear better equipped to control the important periods. England’s injuries weaken their midfield options, while the visitors arrive with greater continuity and confidence.

Verdict

Spain enter the match with the stronger team and the better recent record. They should see plenty of the ball and England’s missing players could become a problem, particularly in midfield.

England are still difficult to beat at Wembley and have enough quality to keep the match close. That makes Spain draw no bet a better choice than the straight away win.

If the match ends in a draw, the stake is returned. If Spain win, the bet wins.

Tip

Spain draw no bet