Oviedo offered Atlético de Madrid a largely reassuring international window as Spain’s Nations League campaign moved forward with Robin Le Normand and Álex Baena involved in a 3-1 win over the Czech Republic, while Jonathan David helped Canada defeat Peru. Jan Oblak endured a more difficult night in Switzerland, although the Slovenia captain prevented the scoreline from becoming heavier.
Spain strengthen their position in Oviedo
At the Carlos Tartiere, Spain remained firmly in control of Nations League Group A3 after overcoming the Czech side. Lamine Yamal struck after five minutes to give the hosts an early advantage, and captain Rodri Hernández added a second before the interval following a flowing team move.
Jiří Sláma brought the visitors back into contention midway through the second half, but Spain regained their composure and finished the contest after Czech defender Krejčí was sent off. Mikel Merino scored late on to settle the result at 3-1.
Le Normand played every minute at centre-back and delivered a composed performance alongside Aymeric Laporte. The Atlético defender completed 99 accurate passes, helped Spain build from deep with authority and conceded only one foul in a low-risk display.
Baena started in the attacking unit and was withdrawn at half-time, with Fermín López taking his place as Spain managed his workload. The Almería-born midfielder had three attempts before the break, including one that tested the Czech defence seriously, and was again prominent through his movement and involvement in possession.
David contributes to Canada win
Across the Atlantic, Jonathan David completed 61 minutes of Canada’s 2-0 friendly victory over Peru. The Atlético forward came close to scoring in the 17th minute, sending a shot narrowly past Diego Romero’s post.
His most telling contribution came in the move for Canada’s decisive second goal. David won possession in the middle of the pitch, launching the direct counterattack that ended with the hosts extending their lead.
Oblak’s mixed evening in Switzerland
Oblak captained Slovenia in their Nations League trip to Switzerland, where the visitors were beaten 2-1. The goalkeeper produced five important saves and limited the damage during a demanding away performance, but was also involved in an uncharacteristic mistake for Switzerland’s opening goal.
A slow deflection off Slovenia defender Erik Janža fell on the goal line and slipped through Oblak’s hands. Despite that difficult moment, his interventions ensured Slovenia remained in the match rather than suffering a wider defeat.
For Atlético, the principal positive was the absence of any immediate physical concerns among their international contingent, with each player returning from his fixture having played a meaningful part for his country.
