In a dead rubber in the Nations League on Monday, Euro 2024 champions Spain defeated Switzerland 3-2 thanks to a late penalty kick from Bryan Zaragoza. In Tenerife, the already-relegated Swiss team twice defeated the Nations League winners, who had already secured first place in Group A4. Fans celebrated the victory as Zaragoza, the Bayern Munich winger, converted a late penalty kick that ended the match, marking the first Spain match played on the island in 28 years.
Aitor Paredes, a center-back for Athletic Bilbao, made his defensive debut when coach Luis de la Fuente completely switched up his lineup from Friday’s victory over Denmark.
32 minutes after Spain saved Pedri’s penalty, Canary Islander Yeremi Pino gave the team the lead on home soil.
Pedri, a Tenerife native, received the ball to take the penalty kick after captain Alvaro Morata earned it, but Yvon Mvogo stopped the Barcelona midfielder’s attempt.
“A goal, the victory, right here at home… Pino said to TVE, “I can’t ask for more.”
“It was a very special game… full marks to the fans.”
At halftime, De la Fuente substituted Porto attacker Samu Aghehowa, another rookie for Spain.
A few minutes after Joel Monteiro tied the score for Switzerland, Bryan Gil took the ball back to give Spain the lead again.
After Fabian Ruiz’s foul in the 85th minute, Andi Zeqiri scored from the penalty spot, but Zaragoza made sure Spain could end an incredible year on a high note.
Vincent Sierro took down the winger, who was on loan from Bayern at Osasuna, after he crashed into the area.
Tenerife celebrated joyfully when Zaragoza expertly scored the ensuing penalty.
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