Spain expose England's flaws in heavy defeat that 'hurts'

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England collapsed against Spain in their Nations League clash, losing 5-2 in what marks their heaviest defeat in 17 years. The result exposed fundamental defensive vulnerabilities that had been masked by recent victories, with Spain's clinical finishing punishing repeated lapses in concentration. Despite the stinging loss, analysts suggest the timing offers England a chance to recalibrate before crucial World Cup qualifiers, though the margin of defeat, England needed only to avoid losing, has rattled confidence in the squad's ability to compete against elite opposition.