Spain secured a 2-1 victory over Croatia in the UEFA Nations League on Wednesday, October 7, 2026, at Stadion Poljud in Split. Mikel Merino scored both goals for Spain, including a late winner in the 88th minute, maintaining Spain’s perfect record in Group 3.
How Did Mikel Merino Secure Victory at Stadion Poljud?
Despite controlling possession, Luis de la Fuente’s side struggled to generate clear scoring opportunities during the opening half.
Spain equalized in the 61st minute after substitute Mikel Merino, who entered at the start of the second half, found the back of the net following an assist from Dani Olmo. Merino then sealed the three points in the 88th minute by securing his brace from a pass provided by Martin Zubimendi.
What Are the Standings Implications in Group 3?
The 2-1 win leaves Spain firmly atop Group 3 with 12 points collected from four victories, ensuring their qualification for the quarterfinals of the competition. Meanwhile, Croatia sits third in the group standings with three points from their first four fixtures.
ANTARA News noted that Croatia opened the match aggressively, testing Unai Simon through early efforts from Josip Stanisic and Igor Matanovic before Perisic broke the deadlock. However, the numerical disadvantage late in the match hampered the hosts’ ability to defend against Spain’s late surge.
How Do These Squads Line Up for the Encounter?
The attacking and midfield framework also featured Nikola Vlasic, Ivan Perisic, and Igor Matanovic. The remaining starting players for Croatia included Dominik Livakovic, Josip Sutalo, Marin Vuskovic, Josko Gvardiol, Luka Modric, Kristijan Jakic, and Mateo Kovacic.
Luis de la Fuente selected Unai Simon between the posts for Spain, supported defensively by Marc Pubill, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, and Marc Cucurella. Rodri and Pedri controlled the midfield engine room, while the forward line featured Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena, and Mikel Oyarzabal.
Where Was the UEFA Nations League Match Played?
Where was the UEFA Nations League match played?
The fixture took place at Stadion Poljud located in Split, Croatia, on Wednesday, October 7, 2026.
Who scored the goals for Spain?
Mikel Merino scored both goals for Spain, netting his first in the 61st minute and the game-winning strike in the 88th minute.
What was Croatia’s disciplinary situation during the match?
Croatia played with 10 men from the 79th minute onward after Ivan Perisic received his second yellow card of the match for committing a foul against Marc Cucurella.
