Spain’s Defense Fresh Faces as They Face Netherlands in Nations League Quarterfinal

Valencia, Spain — Spain’s national football team is set to face the Netherlands on Sunday at 7:45 p.m. GMT in the second leg of the UEFA Nations League quarterfinal after a surprising 2-2 draw in the first match. The team’s defense sees significant changes with the inclusion of debutants Dean Huijsen and Raúl Asencio, stepped up due to injuries.

The Spanish backline has been reinforced due to the injury of Pau Cubarsí, who suffered a twisted ankle in the first half of the first leg match, leaving him unable to continue after the 40th minute. Huijsen, a 19-year-old Bournemouth player and Amsterdam native, replaced him while facing hostility from Dutch fans, having previously played in youth categories for the Netherlands.

“I expected the boos; that’s football. I’m from Málaga and I’m not afraid of anything,” Huijsen said, exhibiting calmness in the midst of the pressure.

Having moved to Marbella at the age of five, Huijsen showcased bravery, skill, and composure during his debut, qualities that excite hopes of forming a defense capable of emulating legendary players Sergio Ramos and Gerard Piqué.

“For me, it’s a dream to debut. I am thrilled and proud to play for this team and my country,” said Huijsen, who joined the squad after Iñigo Martínez reported knee issues that led to his last-minute withdrawal.

Coach Luis de la Fuente praised Huijsen’s potential and ability in a press conference ahead of the match. “Many may see Huijsen’s appearance as a discovery. He has been with us for some time during the under-21 sessions. We are well aware of the talent in our country, and he will help us become a better team,” De la Fuente asserted.

After the initial contest in Rotterdam, the coach commented on Huijsen’s performance, stating, “He has shown he is an extraordinary player who can help us a lot. He displayed maturity and did not seem impressed by the stage.”

Alongside the injury concerns of Cubarsí, De la Fuente is also monitoring Robin Le Normand’s ankle injury, as he played as a central defender during the first leg. If Le Normand cannot play, Asencio, who was not on the roster for the first match, may step in and also make his debut. The 22-year-old defender has capitalized on injuries within Real Madrid’s squad to become a significant player in defense, presenting another opportunity to showcase his rising form.

Aymeric Laporte, a key player from Spain’s victorious Euro 2024 campaign, and Dani Vivian will not participate in this window due to injury. Notably, Nacho Fernández, the captain of Real Madrid and a key part of the Champions League-winning team, has not been called up since the summer after moving to the Saudi league.