Mikel Merino netted a second-half brace to guide World Cup winners Spain to a 2-1 victory over Croatia on Tuesday, securing their place in the Nations League quarter-finals with two games remaining in the group stage.
The hosts took an early lead through Ivan Perisic, who capitalized on a rebound after Spain goalkeeper Unai Simon saved Igor Matanovic’s initial shot. Croatia controlled much of the first half, with Simon making key stops to deny Josip Stanisic and Matanovic again after a defensive error by Aymeric Laporte.
Spain level the playing field after the break when Merino, introduced at halftime, finished low into the net in the 61st minute following a pass from Dani Olmo. The match turned shortly after, when Perisic received a second yellow card for a foul on Marc Cucurella with ten minutes left.
Merino sealed the win in the 88th minute, showcasing a fine turn and finish to beat Croatia goalkeeper Dominik Livakovic. The result extends Spain’s unbeaten run to 42 consecutive matches and keeps them at the top of Group A3, three points clear of England.
The defeat adds to the misery for Croatia, who were previously thrashed 7-0 by England on Saturday behind closed doors due to racism issues involving their fans.
42 games unbeaten is insane, but does any other team genuinely scare them at this level?
Second yellow for Perisic was the real turning point. Croatia simply couldn’t handle the pressure after that.
What a comeback! Merino is absolutely on fire right now. Love seeing Spain bounce back so effortlessly.