England End Spain’s 43-Match Unbeaten Run After 968 Days

England brought Spain’s remarkable 43-match unbeaten run to an end with a dramatic 3-2 victory in Madrid on Sunday, inflicting the world champions’ first defeat in 968 days.

Spain had not lost since their 1-0 friendly defeat to Colombia in March 2024, making their sequence the longest unbeaten run ever recorded by a European national team across all competitions.

Thomas Tuchel’s side produced a memorable performance at the Metropolitano, racing into a three-goal lead before being forced to defend desperately after Elliot Anderson’s dismissal in the 63rd minute.

Harry Kane opened the scoring from the penalty spot to give England a half-time advantage before Ezri Konsa and Ben White struck to put the visitors 3-0 ahead.

But the contest changed dramatically when Anderson was sent off for bringing down Lamine Yamal after Jarell Quansah had been caught out.

Spain seized the opportunity, with Mikel Oyarzabal converting the resulting penalty before substitute Nico Williams scored to reduce the deficit and set up a tense finish.

England were made to withstand sustained pressure, but goalkeeper James Trafford, preferred to Jordan Pickford, produced crucial saves to preserve the victory.

The final whistle sparked wild celebrations among the visitors as they secured top spot in Nations League Group A3 and a place in the quarter-finals.

The result was also a significant statement for Tuchel’s team, who ended Spain’s historic run and closed their 2026 campaign with a famous victory against the reigning world champions.