(Football news) The UEFA Nations League tie between Portugal and Spain ended in a 1-1 draw. It was the fifth consecutive match between the two countries that ended in a draw. The match was very entertaining and a draw seemed like a fair result at the Benito Villamarin. In the other match of the group, Czech Republic defeated Switzerland 2-1 to go top of the table. Portugal being the away team will be the happier side with the result. More so considering the fact that Cristiano Ronaldo only played 28 minutes. Both the teams play again in 3 days time where a lot of changes are expected to be seen.

Portugal lined up without Cristiano Ronaldo who was presumably not fully fit due to the hip flexor injury that kept him out of Manchester United's last league game against Crystal Palace. Diogo Costa once again started ahead of Jose Sa and Rui Patricio. As for Spain, Luis Enrique chose to go with Carlos Soler ahead of Koke, Rodri and Marcos Llorente. Spain from minute one were playing possession based football. The visitors had a very tough time getting hold of the ball as they often had to rely on long balls just to keep Spain out. The home side did finally take the lead in the 25th minute after Pablo Sarabia assisted Alvaro Morata. 17-year-old Gavi once again showed his quality as he did really well in the build up to that goal.  

Joao Moutinho who was on a yellow card was replaced at half time by club teammate Ruben Neves. Portugal started ticking a little more as a team in the 2nd half. The equaliser finally came in the 82nd minute when Joao Cancelo managed to get behind the Spanish defence before assisting Ricardo Horta. Spain had 60 percent possession but the same amount of shots on target as Portugal. This has been a recurring problem with Spain as they don't seem to take advantage of their chances by scoring goals to kill off games. Portugal weren't up to standard either as they created very little going forward and were dominated in the midfield. 

Also read: Juventus closing in on a three year deal for free agent Paul Pogba