Gordon shines but worries at the back: Five takeaways from England 2-3 Spain

In a captivating clash at Wembley, England fell 3-2 to Spain in a match that showcased individual brilliance and defensive concerns. The Three Lions, despite a spirited performance, were undone by their vulnerabilities at the back. Here are five key takeaways from the encounter:

1. Gordon's Star Continues to Rise

Anthony Gordon was once again the focal point of England's attack. The young winger was electric, consistently troubling the Spanish defense with his pace and creativity. His performance culminated in a well-taken goal that leveled the score at 1-1. Gordon's form bodes well for England's future, as he looks set to be a mainstay in the national team.

2. Defensive Frailties Exposed

While England looked promising going forward, their defensive issues were laid bare. Spain capitalized on lapses in concentration and poor marking, with two of their goals coming from set-pieces. Gareth Southgate will need to address these concerns as the team prepares for upcoming qualifiers.

3. Spanish Midfield Masterclass

Spain's midfield trio of Pedri, Gavi, and Rodri put on a clinic, controlling the tempo and exploiting the spaces left by England's midfield. Their ability to retain possession and transition quickly proved pivotal in breaking down England's defensive lines.

4. Southgate's Tactical Adjustments

Gareth Southgate made several tactical tweaks throughout the match, including a shift to a back three in the second half. While this provided more defensive solidity, it limited England's attacking width. Finding the right balance will be crucial as Southgate fine-tunes his strategies.

5. Promising Signs Amidst the Setback

Despite the loss, there were positive signs for England. The attacking interplay between Gordon, Phil Foden, and Harry Kane was encouraging, offering a glimpse of the team's potential when firing on all cylinders. With key players returning from injury, there is optimism that England can bounce back in the upcoming fixtures.

The match against Spain served as a reminder of both England's potential and the areas in need of improvement. As the team regroups, the focus will be on solidifying their defensive setup while maintaining their attacking prowess.