Spain came from behind to secure a 2-1 victory over Croatia in a closely contested Nations League clash at Stadion Poljud, with Mikel Merino producing a decisive second-half performance.
Croatia started brightly and took the lead in the 18th minute. Ivan Perisic reacted quickest to a loose ball inside the box and headed home, with Mateo Kovacic providing the key pass. Croatia entered half-time with a 1-0 advantage despite Spain dominating possession for much of the opening period.
Spain continued to control the ball after the restart and eventually found their equaliser in the 61st minute. Dani Olmo supplied the assist for Merino, who finished calmly with his left foot to make it 1-1.
Spain remained in control and eventually completed the comeback in the 89th minute. Martin Zubimendi delivered the assist, allowing Merino to volley the ball into the net with an excellent left-footed finish.
The closing stages became difficult for Croatia after Ivan Perisic received a second yellow card in the 79th minute and was sent off. Spain used their numerical advantage to maintain pressure and see out the victory.
Spain finished with an impressive 72% possession compared with Croatia’s 28%, while also registering six corners to Croatia’s three.
Spain have also continued to make their presence felt in the Nations League, with their 3-1 victory over Czechia another statement of their quality and attacking strength.
Spain Player Ratings
| Player | Rating |
| Lamine Yamal | 9.3 |
| Marc Pubill | 8.6 |
| Alex Baena | 7.7 |
| Pau Cubarsi | 7.7 |
| Fermin Lopez | 7.5 |
| Marc Cucurella | 7.4 |
| Martin Zubimendi | 7.4 |
| Pedri | 7.4 |
| Unai Simon | 7.3 |
| Nico Williams | 7.3 |
| Dean Huijsen | 7.2 |
| Fabian Ruiz | 7.2 |
| Mikel Merino | 7.1 |
| Rodri | 6.6 |
| Mikel Oyarzabal | 6.5 |
| Victor Munoz | 6.2 |
Croatia Player Ratings
| Player | Rating |
| Ivan Perisic | 7.5 |
| Marco Pasalic | 7.3 |
| Dion Drena Beljo | 7.1 |
| Petar Sucic | 6.9 |
| Mateo Kovacic | 6.0 |
| Josip Misic | 6.0 |
| Dominik Livakovic | 5.2 |
Match Statistics
| Statistic | Croatia | Spain |
| Possession | 28% | 72% |
| Shots on Target | 3 | 2 |
| Shots Off Target | 3 | 2 |
| Blocked Shots | 5 | 28 |
| Corners | 3 | 6 |
| Offsides | 0 | 2 |
| Fouls | 12 | 10 |
| Throw-ins | 10 | 14 |
| Yellow Cards | 4 | 2 |
| Red Cards | 1 | 0 |
| Crosses | 10 | 20 |
| Counter Attacks | 3 | 2 |
| Goalkeeper Saves | 1 | 4 |
| Goal Kicks | 8 | 2 |
The result continues Spain’s strong Nations League campaign and highlights their ability to remain patient against a Croatia side that defended for long periods.
