Luis de la Fuente takes pride in the talent and versatility of his squad, pairing that with tactical adaptability that frequently pays off. In Seville, facing a stubborn Scotland determined to defend and keep a clean sheet, he combined the right ingredients to solve the puzzle posed by the challengers’ dense defensive lines. Spain secured the win with goals from Morata and Sancet, a victory that sparked celebration, though it was Bryan Zaragoza’s boldness that truly lit up the stands and jolted the team from a lethargic first half.
Scotland needed a point to secure direct qualification, while Spain required success in both Seville and Oslo to climb ahead of Norway. De la Fuente’s players entered the fray without overplaying their hand, intent on balance rather than risk. Injuries to Lamine, Yeremi Pino and Nico Williams left Haro with limited depth, giving rookie Bryan Zaragoza a brief but crucial chance after a late decision to bench him earlier in the match.
There are no extremes to face
Koç aligned Morata with Oyarzabal and Ferran, aiming to flood the interior lanes and create opportunities for Carvajal and Balde to advance. The Scots, aware of the risk, sited their shape compactly to crowd Spain’s playmakers, yet the opening moments still suggested potential. In the first sequence Morata found Ferran Torres in a promising position, but the finish failed to materialize as the goalkeeper blocked the threat. Moments later a corner found its way across the Scottish goal without a finishing touch. Spain pressed, waiting for unexpected bursts from Gavi, Ferran and Oyarzabal, while the visitors remained disciplined and compact in their defense.
The Scottish 3-4-3 gradually shifted into a defensive 5-4-1, with Dykes starved of service and Unai Simón largely a spectator. Spain struggled to unlock the barrier, losing momentum as players drifted away from each other rather than connecting in attacking sequences. The clearest chance came in the 33rd minute when Merinos mishit a loose ball that struck the post, then wandered along the line without forcing an opening. By that point Oyarzabal stood out, making decisive choices, taking initiative, and communicating with teammates. The first half ended with a goalless draw that mirrored Scotland’s solid setup and Spain’s erratic rhythm. Few Spanish players showed consistency in the final third, while Balde, Merinos, Oyarzabal and Morata were among the most active, though offside disallowed some attempts.
VAR and McTominay
At the break, the coach acted decisively, summoning the courage the game demanded. Bryan Zaragoza entered the fray, delivering a quick-fire demonstration of speed and transition. Within three minutes he challenged two defenders, driving forward and firing a high strike that tested the goalkeeper. In under 90 seconds he had already shown more intent than in the first half, setting the tone for a second-half surge. The ball then moved to the left where Fran García joined the attack, crossing with intent after a spirited exchange with Balde. A moment of close control from Morata followed a clever shift, and though the finish looked promising, the ball brushed past the post. The tempo rose as Spain pressed in the Scotland half, with Morata inching closer to the target after a clever Atlético-inspired sequence, before the ball drifted into the top corner for a momentary lead.
Scotland did not crumble; they chased an equalizer with determination, and occasional forays into Spanish territory offered glimmers of danger, notably through Ryan Christie. The Bournemouth winger drew a foul in the box, but the resulting run of play was interrupted when a contentious offside decision nullified a Scottish attack. The stadium, home to 45,000 spectators, erupted as the match shifted in tone and intensity.
Goals by Morata and Sancet
With Spain pushing for an advantage, De la Fuente adjusted the shape again, placing Navas on the right and pushing Sancet just behind Morata, while Merino made way for a double pivot featuring Gavi. The change added muscularity and velocity to the build-up, helping Spain withstand the Caledonian pressure. A well-timed cross from Navas found Morata, who converted to put Spain ahead. Morata’s form in this phase reflected a growing maturity and confidence in his game as the team sought to capitalize on the flank work and central thrust. The second goal arrived when Sancet exploited a momentary lapse in Scotland’s defense late in the match, sealing a solid victory for Spain against a stubborn opponent. The result consolidated Spain’s position and left Scotland chasing late opportunities that never fully materialized for a comeback.