‘We knew we were going to beat them’ – Rice on England’s victory over Spain

Declan Rice says England went into their 3-2 victory over Spain knowing they would beat the world champions.

Thomas Tuchel’s side ended Spain’s 43-game unbeaten run in Madrid despite playing the final half an hour with ten men after Elliot Anderson’s red card.

“We knew we were going to beat them tonight,” Rice said after England’s victory, which also means they have topped their Nations League group.

“The message from the manager after the Croatia game has been so positive.

“The first 10 minutes was the best we’ve played. Pressure, pressure.

“Overall, 10 men for half an hour, winning 3-2 against a team unbeaten in 43 is massive.”

England led 3-0 before Anderson’s red card opened the door for a late Spain comeback, with the hosts scoring twice to set up a nervy finish.

Rice admitted the game could easily have swung away from England once Spain pulled their second goal back.

“Argentina that day at the World Cup wasn’t meant to be. That’s football,” he said.

“When they got a second maybe it could have gone another way.

“It’s a massive win.”

James Trafford also played a decisive role late on, producing a superb double save to preserve England’s advantage.

“Massive,” Rice said of the goalkeeper’s contribution.

“Everything happened so quick so for him to make two in the space of two seconds is massive.”