Spain return to Nations League duty in Oviedo on Saturday night, carrying the weight of world champions into a Group 3, League A meeting with the Czech Republic. The Nuevo Carlos Tartiere hosts a fixture that gives Luis de la Fuente’s side another early-season test of their authority.
Kick-off is set for 20:45 local time on 3 October. Spain arrive with a formidable record in official meetings between the countries, while the Czech side are led by Spanish coach Santi Denia.
Quick facts
- Match: Spain v Czech Republic
- Competition: UEFA Nations League, League A, Group 3, matchday three
- Date and time: Saturday 3 October, 20:45
- Venue: Nuevo Carlos Tartiere, Oviedo
- Official head-to-head record: five Spain wins and two draws from seven games
- Last meeting: Spain won 2-0 in Malaga on 12 June 2022
The last Nations League encounter between the teams came at La Rosaleda four years ago. Carlos Soler opened the scoring in the 24th minute and Pablo Sarabia sealed a 2-0 Spanish victory after the interval.
De la Fuente has named a 4-2-3-1, with David Raya in goal behind a defence of Ivan Fresneda, Robin Le Normand, Aymeric Laporte and Fran Garcia. Rodri and Pedri form the midfield base, with Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Alex Baena supporting Roberto Fernandez.
The Czech Republic begin in a 4-3-3. Antonin Kinsky starts in goal, while the back line contains Michal Sacek, Tomas Chaloupek, Ladislav Krejci and Matej Stama. David Macek, Daniel Ambros and Alex Kral make up the midfield, with Tomas Radosta, Adam Hlozek and Ondrej Lingr selected further forward.
Spain’s night in Asturias also follows confirmation that De la Fuente has extended his contract until 2032. The 65-year-old has made clear that he sees more work ahead, saying: “The best is still to come.”
For Spain, the occasion is another chance to sustain momentum under a coach now tied to the long-term direction of the national team. For Denia and the Czech Republic, it is a demanding visit to a side unbeaten in seven competitive contests between these opponents.
The match is available in Italy through Sky Sport, TV8 and NOW, with streaming also offered on Sky Go and NOW.
