On Thursday, Spain managed to grab a stoppage-time equalizer against the 10-man Netherlands, resulting in a 2-2 draw. This outcome maintained Spain's two-year unbeaten run and put the holders in an advantageous position in their UEFA Nations League quarterfinal tie.

Mikel Merino, who is used as a makeshift striker for Arsenal at club level, came on as a substitute and demonstrated his goal-scoring ability for his national team as well. He scored with a close-range finish three minutes into added time.

The Dutch, having fallen behind in the ninth minute, fought back with goals from Cody Gakpo and Tijjani Reijnders. However, they ended the game with 10 men as teenage defender Jorrel Hato was shown a red card eight minutes from the end for a studs-up challenge.

Spain, who had not lost in their previous 21 competitive internationals, opened the scoring through Nico Williams after a fast start to the game.

An error from 19-year-old Hato was snatched upon by Spain's 17-year-old Lamine Yamal, whose pass to Pedri in the box was slipped through to Williams who turned to fire it home.

Spain captain Álvaro Morata had a chance to double the score but his header from Marc Cucurella's cross went wide.

The Dutch forced their way back with right back Jeremie Frimpong providing the energy to lift the home side as he constantly teased the Spanish defence with his runs down the wing.

The failure of Pau Cubarsí to properly clear Frimpong's cross saw Justin Kluivert feed Gakpo on the left of the attack and he hammered a shot just inside the goal for a 28th-minute equaliser.

Reijnders shaved the crossbar with a half volley before finding the net less than a minute into the second half.

Frimpong cut the ball back after another strong run down the flank and Reijnders placed it into the net with a perfectly executed side-footed shot.

Hato's dismissal, for a challenge on Robin le Normand, handed a late advantage to Spain, who then peppered the Dutch goal before forcing home the equaliser.

Bart Verbruggen proved unable to hold Williams' shot and Merino had an easy finish to ensure Spain will be favourites for the return leg in Valencia on Sunday.

The winners of the tie take on Croatia or France in the semifinal in June with Croatia 2-0 up from the first leg.