Wembley drama as Spain edge England 3-2 to spoil Thomas Tuchel's debut

Thomas Tuchel's Wembley debut turned into a nightmare as England fell to a 3-2 defeat against Spain. Despite leading 2-1, Harry Kane's missed second-half penalty handed victory to the visitors, with Baena and Oyarzabal netting the decisive goals.

Meanwhile, the Republic of Ireland camp was rocked ahead of their clash with Israel. Following a tense four-hour emergency meeting, the squad decided to wear black armbands and refuse pre-match handshakes in protest of political tensions, while goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu withdrew from the squad entirely.

Wembley drama: Spain edge England 3-2 to spoil Tuchel's debut

The match began in nightmare fashion for the hosts as Lamine Yamal struck inside the opening minute. Although Anthony Gordon and Harry Kane turned the tide to put the Three Lions 2-1 up at the break, the second half witnessed a complete defensive collapse.

The turning point came when Kane uncharacteristically missed a crucial penalty, squandering the chance to equalise after Spain had fought back to lead 3-2. This bitter defeat ensured Thomas Tuchel's official bow at Wembley ended in disappointment.

Ireland hold four-hour emergency meeting, wear black armbands in Israel protest

The decision to play was only reached after a secret ballot, which passed with 14 votes in favour and 8 against. While the majority agreed to take the pitch, goalkeeper Gavin Bazunu stood firm, refusing to join up with the squad and choosing to withdraw in protest.

To signal their protest against the political tensions in Gaza, the Irish players agreed to wear black armbands throughout the match. Furthermore, the squad resolved to bypass the traditional pre-match handshakes with their opponents.

Verdict & Analysis

Thomas Tuchel's England reign began on a flat note, as defensive fragility and a costly error from the penalty spot saw the Three Lions fall to Spain.

Simultaneously, the Republic of Ireland sent a powerful political message by donning black armbands, refusing handshakes, and absorbing a key squad withdrawal just before kick-off.

Do you think Harry Kane should remain England's first-choice penalty taker under Tuchel?