Spain and the Netherlands find themselves deadlocked heading into Sunday’s Nations League quarter-final second leg in Valencia.

Mikel Merino delivered a last-minute goal to secure a draw for the current European and Nations League champions during a Thursday night match in Rotterdam. The Dutch team’s chances were hindered by Jorrel Hato’s red card, received eight minutes before the end of the game.

The Netherlands has yet to claim a Nations League victory, with their closest attempt being the runner-up position in the first-ever 2018/19 tournament. Led by Ronald Koeman, the team hopes to achieve victory this year.

However, defeating Spain will be a formidable task, as they are undefeated in their last 17 games across all competitions. Under the guidance of Luis de la Fuente, Spain’s talented squad is considered the frontrunner for this year’s Nations League title.

Sunday’s winner will progress to the semi-finals to face either Croatia or France, but if nothing separates the two European giants after 90 minutes, extra-time and potentially penalties will be required to decide the outcome.

Here is 90min’s guide to the encounter.

Spain are without Barcelona centre-back Pau Cubarsi after the youngster was withdrawn during the first leg due to an ankle injury. He was replaced by Dean Huijsen and the impressive Bournemouth teenager, linked with some of the continent’s biggest clubs, is likely to earn a first start.

Robin Le Normand could also miss out with a knock but Spain are hopeful he’ll be good to go.

The established midfield trio of Martin Zubimendi, Pedri and Fabian Ruiz will guard the backline, while Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams – the latter scoring and assisting on Thursday – will play either side of skipper Alvaro Morata.

Spain predicted lineup vs Netherlands (4-3-3): Simon; Porro, Le Normand, Huijsen, Cucurella; Pedri, Zubimendi, Ruiz; Yamal, Morata, Williams.

The Dutch will be without the services of young Hato after he was shown a straight red card against Spain on Thursday evening, forcing a reshuffle in defence for Koeman. Lutsharel Geertruida may swap flanks to replace the left-back.

Xavi Simons should come into the starting lineup on the right wing but there are unlikely to be any other changes in the forward line. Cody Gakpo scored on Thursday and Justin Kluivert assisted in attacking midfield. Memphis Depay should lead the line again after returning to the squad.

Netherlands predicted lineup vs Spain (4-2-3-1): Verbruggen; Frimpong, Van Hecke, Van Dijk, Geertruida; Reijnders, De Jong; Simons, Kluivert, Gakpo; Memphis.

Given Spain’s lengthy unbeaten run – consisting of 14 wins from 17 matches without defeat – it would be no surprise to see La Roja progress to the final four, especially given they have home advantage for the second leg.

The Netherlands are shaky in defence at the best of times and find themselves stretched at the back following injuries, while they’re also missing the influential Ryan Gravenberch in defensive midfield due to injury.

Spain’s attacking stars should get some joy in Valencia and come out on top.