England player ratings vs Spain as they end 43-game unbeaten record with memorable performance
England ended Spain's 43-match unbeaten run on Sunday evening as goals from Harry Kane, Ezri Konsa and Ben White secured a memorable 3-2 victory over the reigning world champions.
Thomas Tuchel's side booked their place in the Nations League quarter-finals with a 2-1 victory over Croatia on Thursday night, but there was still plenty at stake in Madrid, with top spot in Group A3 up for grabs.
The Three Lions made a blistering start to the game. In fact, they almost took the lead with two minutes played, when goalkeeper Unai Simon was forced to make a terrific save after Jude Bellingham met Declan Rice's corner.
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England continued to unsettle Spain's back line with a well-organised high press, while also looking assured in possession, with Elliott Anderson and Jude Bellingham regularly driving the visitors forward.
Eventually, Tuchel's men got their just rewards through newly-crowned Ballon d'Or winner Harry Kane, who converted from the penalty spot after being brought down by Pau Cubasi in the 41st minute.
England continued where they left off in the second-half, constantly putting Spain under pressure, and with 53 minutes on the clock, Ezri Konsa headed home to double their lead.
Remarkably, things then went from bad to worse for Spain. Ben White, who has only recently returned to the international fold, finished off a superb England counter-attack after Declan Rice won possession from Lamine Yamal.
It looked like England would ease to victory but in the 65th minute, Elliot Anderson was sent off after bringing down Yamal in the penalty area. Mikel Oyarzabal converted from the spot and the atmosphere inside the Metropolitano changed completely.
Spain launched wave after wave of attacks over the next 20 minutes, and it felt like only a matter of time before they found another.
After several close calls, Luis de la Fuente's side capitalised on Anthony Gordon losing possession in midfield before Nico Williams reduced the deficit to one goal.
It was a nervy end to the game for Tuchel's men, but they held firm under immense pressure to secure a historic victory on Spanish soil.
Here's how the players rated in their 2-1 win over Bilic's men.
James Trafford – 8.5/10 (Sofascore rating: 7.2)
Didn't have a great deal to do for large parts. In fact, his first save came in the 72nd minute, but the Cumbrian produced several crucial saves in the final 20 minutes, including a remarkable double stop in the dying stages.
England's new number one? Tuchel has got a big decision to make.
Lewis Hall – 8/10 (Sofascore rating: 7.9)
Yamal had a point to prove after missing out on the Ballon d'Or. Lewis Hall knew that, and he rose to the occasion. Also looked a real threat going forward, with his mazy run in the first-half being a highlight.
A very solid all-round display.
Ezri Konsa – 8/10 (Sofascore rating: 7.9)
Konsa's presence at the back was noticeable after England's shaky defensive display against Croatia. Brought some much-needed pace to the back line. Spain weren't at their best, but Konsa deserves credit for barely putting a foot wrong.
An extra point for finding the back of the net.
Jarell Quansah – 7/10 (Sofascore rating: 7.1)
Much like Konsa, he was steady throughout. Looks far more comfortable operating at centre-back. Was caught out for Spain's opener but continued to show composure in the final stages.
Ben White – 8/10 (Sofascore rating: 7.1)
Many eyebrows were raised when Tuchel picked him ahead of Trent, but White showed why he deserves to be in contention. And can we just talk about that last-ditch tackle in the 83rd minute to deny Nico Williams. Wow.
Declan Rice – 7/10 (Sofascore rating: 7.2)
A solid display from the Arsenal man. As always, he went about his business quietly and efficiently.
Elliot Anderson – 5.5/10 (Sofascore rating: 5.7)
Found Kane with a superb pass before the latter won his penalty, but the midfielder's evening will be remembered for the needless foul on Lamine Yamal that allowed Spain back into the contest.
Jude Bellingham – 9/10 (Sofascore rating: 8)
England's best player. Showed why he's one of the best ball-carriers in world football. When was the last time he had a bad game in an England shirt?
Anthony Gordon – 7/10 (Sofascore rating: 6.6)
Tried his best to double up on Yamal with Hall. Lost possession before Nico Williams made it 3-2.
Morgan Rogers – 6/10 (Sofascore rating: 6.7)
An unusually quiet evening given his form for club and country of late.
Harry Kane – 7/10 (Sofascore rating: 7.7)
Did brilliantly to win the penalty he went on to convert. Not his best performance in an England shirt, but he contributed to what was an incredible England performance in the opening hour.
Topics: England, Spain, UEFA Nations League
Jack Kenmare
