Sweden

Nations League: Spain snatch finals spot from Portugal, Ireland avert humiliation

27-Sep-2022 21:28:33 | Guardian

• Morata hits 88th-minute winner; Armenia scare the Irish
• Northern Ireland avoid drop; Sesko hits Van Basten-style volley

Spain snatched a place in the Nations League final four after Álvaro Morata’s late goal secured a 1-0 win over Portugal in Braga to ensure top spot in their group.

Portugal had dominated the match but Spain stayed in the contest and in the 88th minute a long ball into the box from Dani Carvajal was headed by Nico Williams across to Morata, who lashed it into the net to silence most of the sold-out stadium. Portugal had a late chance to earn the point they needed but Cristiano Ronaldo missed from close range to extend his scoreless streak with the national team to three matches.