England face Spain with Nations League top spot and racism protocol in focus
What's at stake: A win in Madrid would put England first in the group on goal difference and improve their quarterfinal path.
England head to Madrid on Sunday needing a win over Spain to finish first in their Nations League group, while Thomas Tuchel plans to brief players on UEFA's anti-racism procedures before kickoff. England beat Croatia 2-1 at Wembley on Thursday to keep a chance at top spot alive. Defeating Spain at the Metropolitano Stadium would secure first place because England hold the superior goal difference. Spain, the world and European champions, have lost only once in 43 matches, with that defeat coming on penalties to Portugal in the 2025 Nations League final. Tuchel called the match a major test for a squad he is shaping toward Euro 2028, and England's first game in Madrid since a 2004 match at the Bernabeu marred by racist abuse.