Spain go into the Spain vs Czech Republic fixture chasing three wins from their first three matches in the 2026-27 UEFA Nations League. They opened with a 3-2 win over England at Wembley on September 26, then beat Croatia 4-1 three days later, and they have seven goals from those two games. Czech Republic arrive with Pavel Sulc suspended and Adam Karabec a doubt.

Spain's rotation and attacking options

Luis de la Fuente will make changes to the side that started against Croatia, but Spain still look loaded in the areas that matter. Rodri should return to anchor midfield, while Dani Olmo, Nico Williams, Ferran Torres and Lamine Yamal keep the front end busy enough to stress almost any opponent.

Yamal has been the standout. He has three goals and one assist in two Nations League matches this international period, and the Barcelona attacker is expected to start again. That form gives Spain a margin even when the team is rotated, because the ball still ends up with players who can turn possession into chances quickly.

Rodri's return matters in a different way. He has already played two Nations League matches this season, and Spain have been able to keep control through midfield rather than just relying on wide pressure and individual moments.

Czech Republic's task

Pavel Sulc's suspension removes one option before the match has even started, and Karabec's knock leaves another gap if he does not recover in time. Spain's front line should ask constant questions of a side that will already be protecting space rather than hunting the game.

The debate over Spain's recent run is a small one. Some reports frame this as nine wins in all competitions, while the clearest verified read here is simpler, Spain have won both Nations League matches so far and sit top of Group 3 of League A on six points.

Against a depleted Czech Republic side, that should still be enough to keep Spain in control. The match is scheduled for 3 October, and the main question is whether de la Fuente's rotation changes the feel of the team or just the names on the team sheet.

Written by Daniel Hartley with AI-assisted research, cross-checked against 2 outlets. How we work →