England embrace the chaos - but control also needed to win big prizes
England embrace the chaos, but superb Spain show it will never win big prizes, says chief football writer Phil McNulty.
Coverage by Political Leaning
See how different sides of the spectrum reported this story
Notable Quotes
"On another day we could have won."
— Harry Kane , Athlete
Key People
Anthony Gordon is a forward for the England national football team.
Harry Kane is a professional footballer and captain of the England national team.
James Trafford is an England goalkeeper currently with Manchester City.
Jude Bellingham is a professional footballer playing for Real Madrid and the England national team.
Marc Guehi is an English professional footballer who plays as a defender.
Mikel Oyarzabal is a Spanish professional footballer who plays as a winger.
Nico O'Reilly is a defender for the England national football team.
Thomas Tuchel is the head coach of the England national football team.
Locations
All Coverage
England embrace the chaos, but superb Spain show it will never win big prizes, says chief football writer Phil McNulty.
Similar Stories
Related coverage based on topic and tags
Education, Barcelona & Basque culture - why Spain are dominating football
Spain go into Saturday's Nations League match against England on a 38-match unbeaten run - and with a host of honours to their name. Why are they so good?
September 25, 2026 at 06:20 AMTuchel rues 'big mistakes' - did Man City charges have impact?
England's loss to Spain was decided by uncharacteristic mistakes, with two Man City players making errors - so did club news affect performances for country?
September 26, 2026 at 10:47 PMWho made an uncharacteristic error? England player ratings v Spain
England were beaten 3-2 in an entertaining game by world champions Spain in the Nations League - here's how BBC Sport rated the Three Lions' players.
September 26, 2026 at 08:42 PMEngland embrace growing competitiveness of women's game
England edge past New Zealand with a last-gasp try by Zoe Harrison as they embrace the growing competitiveness of women's rugby.
September 26, 2026 at 06:55 PMDo England have a problem against top-10 teams?
As England prepare to take on Spain in their opening Nations League match, BBC Sport takes a look at whether they have a problem when faced with teams in the world top 10.
September 26, 2026 at 06:41 AMMan City legal fight could spiral out of control - Purslow
Manchester City's legal fight with the Premier League has the potential to "spiral out of control" a former top club executive has warned.
September 26, 2026 at 11:03 AM