Balls in behind, beat the counter-press and set pieces: How England can beat Spain

From the opening 10 minutes of their first Euro 2025 group match against Portugal, a decisive 5-0 victory, it felt obvious that Spain were playing football on a different level to everyone else in the tournament. No other side can boast Spain’s reliability in possession, a hallmark of their tactical identity. Nobody else offers their quality of movement in the final third, with intricate passing patterns and intelligent runs that consistently unlock even the most stubborn defences. And none can combine the two so well, which owes much to this team’s long-standing football philosophy, honed over years, and the fact a significant core of their likely starting XI have played together extensively, often from youth systems or a single dominant club side, fostering an almost telepathic understanding.

Spain’s dominance stems from an unwavering commitment to their short-passing, possession-based philosophy, often referred to as 'tiki-taka'. They don't just hold the ball; they use it to control the tempo, draw opponents out of position, and create numerical superiorities across the pitch. Their players are technically exquisite, comfortable operating in tight spaces, and possess an innate understanding of where their teammates will be. This relentless ball retention and intricate interplay mean that opponents spend vast periods without the ball, leading to physical and mental fatigue, and ultimately creating the openings Spain so ruthlessly exploit. Disrupting this rhythm is paramount for any team hoping to challenge them.

For England, the blueprint to overcoming such a formidable opponent must be pragmatic and precise, focusing on exploiting the very few chinks in Spain's formidable armour. Firstly, England must embrace the tactic of playing "balls in behind". While Spain’s defenders are technically proficient, their aggressive high line and commitment of players forward can leave space in behind their defence. Quick, incisive passes, either over the top or threaded through the channels, aimed at England’s pacy forwards, could force Spain’s backline to turn and chase, disrupting their defensive shape and creating genuine goal-scoring opportunities. This requires exquisite timing and vision from England’s midfielders and defenders, bypassing the crowded central areas where Spain excels.

Secondly, and crucially, England must be prepared to "beat the counter-press". Spain, like many top modern sides, employs an immediate and aggressive counter-press upon losing possession, aiming to win the ball back high up the pitch within seconds. If England succumbs to this pressure, they will be trapped in their own half, constantly conceding territory and possession. To counter this, England’s players must show exceptional composure and quick decision-making. One-touch passing, intelligent off-the-ball movement to create passing lanes, and the bravery to play vertical, line-breaking passes immediately after winning possession will be vital. Escaping this initial wave of pressure can open up vast expanses of the pitch, allowing England to transition quickly into attack.

Finally, "set pieces" will be a critical weapon in England’s arsenal. Against a team that dominates possession and restricts open-play chances, dead-ball situations become invaluable. Corners, free-kicks in dangerous areas, and even long throws into the box must be treated as prime scoring opportunities. England possesses players with aerial prowess and strong delivery, and meticulous planning for set-piece routines could yield dividends. Whether it’s a cleverly worked short corner, a direct ball into a crowded box, or a second-phase attack from a cleared free-kick, capitalising on these moments could provide the crucial goals needed to upset the Spanish juggernaut. It’s about maximising every non-open-play chance.