Plenty of surprises in the Nations League quarterfinal openers: France were beaten 2-0 by Croatia, and Portugal fell 1-0 in Denmark. Only Spain managed to avoid defeat, salvaging a 2-2 draw in the Netherlands thanks to a last-gasp equalizer. Return legs are set for Sunday, March 23.
In Split, Croatia missed an early penalty through Kramaric but quickly bounced back with a header from Budimir and a stunning volley from Perisic before halftime. A depleted French side struggled to respond.
In Copenhagen, Denmark wasted a first-half penalty but found the winner late on with Højlund, who converted a pinpoint assist from Skov Olsen.
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In Rotterdam, Nico Williams gave Spain the lead, but the Netherlands turned things around through Gakpo and a low strike from Reijnders. After Hato was sent off in the 81st minute, Spain pressed and equalized in the 93rd minute with Merino, pouncing on a rebound.
In the promotion/relegation playoffs:
Turkey beat Hungary 3-1
Scotland win 1-0 in Greece
Stunning comeback by Ukraine, who overturn a 1-0 deficit to beat Belgium 3-1
1-1 between Austria and Serbia, with key contributions from Serie A players
Georgia cruise past Armenia 3-0
Kosovo edge Iceland 2-1
Ireland come from behind to defeat Bulgaria 2-1
Goalless draw between Slovakia and Slovenia
