Spain call up Raul Asencio for Nations League quarter-finals against Netherlands

Real Madrid defender Raul Asencio has earned his first senior Spain call-up for the UEFA Nations League quarter-finals against the Netherlands.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente named the in-form centre-back in his 26-man squad on Friday, with Barcelona’s Inigo Martinez also included. Regular defenders Aymeric Laporte and Dani Vivian miss out due to injury.

With Ballon d’Or winner Rodri still sidelined, Spain have bolstered their midfield options by calling up Martin Zubimendi and Marc Casado. They join a strong contingent featuring Pedri, Alex Baena, Fabian Ruiz, and Mikel Merino.

Alvaro Morata, currently on loan at Galatasaray from Milan, will captain the squad, which includes attacking talents such as Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams.

Spain, the reigning Nations League champions and winners of Euro 2024, will face the Netherlands in a two-legged quarter-final, with the first leg set for March 20 in Rotterdam and the return fixture three days later in Valencia.

(Source: AFP)