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Lamine Yamal Shines with Perfect Score as Spain Defeats Croatia 4-1 in UEFA Nations League

At the Estadio Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan, Spain dominated Croatia 4-1 in the UEFA Nations League, led by a remarkable performance from teenager Lamine Yamal. The young winger scored twice and assisted another goal in a commanding showing.

The match began explosively, with Yamal opening the scoring just two minutes in after an assist from Álex Baena. Croatia responded in the 28th minute through Dion Drena Beljo's header off an Ivan Perisic cross, leveling the score against the run of play.

Spain bounced back quickly. Marc Pubill regained the lead for La Roja in the 31st minute, heading in a corner from Yamal to make it 2-1 before halftime. The hosts controlled possession at 63.7% during the second half, suffocating Croatia’s midfield. Yamal netted his second goal shortly after the hour mark, and substitute Nico Williams capped the victory with a late goal, securing Spain’s top spot in Group 3.

Player Ratings

  • Unai Simon - 6/10: Quiet overall, faced only two shots on target. He couldn’t stop Beljo’s header but communicated well with his centre-backs to avoid further threats.
  • Marc Pubill - 8/10: Impressive attacking effort as right-back, stretching Croatia's defense and scoring Spain's second goal. Defensively solid throughout the game.
  • Pau Cubarsi - 7/10: Mature defending against Beljo, contributed with precise passing to keep Spain’s tempo high.
  • Dean Huijsen - 7/10: Reliable in the air and calm under pressure, helped prevent Croatia from creating dangerous chances.
  • Marc Cucurella - 7/10: Energetic runs forward, balanced his attacking support with defensive responsibility.
  • Martin Zubimendi - 7/10: Central figure in Spain’s midfield, recycling possession and breaking up plays before being substituted by Rodri at 72 minutes.
  • Fabian Ruiz - 7/10: Balanced physicality and technique, helped control possession before Pedri replaced him in the 57th minute.
  • Álex Baena - 8/10: Creative throughout, delivered the assist for the opening goal, troubled Croatia’s defense consistently, but earned a booking before exiting at 68 minutes.
  • Fermin Lopez - 7/10: Hard-working and disciplined, unlucky not to score when hitting the post. Left the field for Mikel Merino in the 57th minute.
  • Lamine Yamal - 10/10: Flawless night. Scored early, set up Pubill’s goal, and sealed the win with his second strike. Caused havoc for Croatia’s defense all evening until substituted for Victor Muñoz at 68 minutes.
  • Mikel Oyarzabal - 6/10: Led the attack selflessly, created space despite having a goal disallowed for offside.
  • Pedri - 8/10: Came on at 57 minutes, instantly boosted creativity and assisted Yamal’s second goal.
  • Mikel Merino - 7/10: Added toughness in midfield after replacing Lopez and assisted Williams’ late goal.
  • Nico Williams - 8/10: Entered at 68 minutes and kept pressure on Croatia’s tired defense, scoring in the 89th minute.
  • Victor Muñoz - 6/10: Replaced Yamal, almost scored with a header, helping Spain maintain control.
  • Rodri - 6/10: Took over from Zubimendi late, wore captain’s armband and helped manage the game’s closing phase.
  • Luis de la Fuente - 9/10: Tactical approach worked perfectly. Trusted youth, timed substitutions well, and showcased squad depth with both assists and goals coming from substitutes.

Upcoming UEFA Nations League Fixtures

  • Croatia (CRO) vs England (ENG): 3 October 2026, 19:00
  • Spain (ESP) vs Czechia (CZE): 3 October 2026, 21:45

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